A DWI arrest in Texas can have immediate and lasting consequences on your ability to drive. Even before a criminal case is resolved, the Texas Department of Public Safety can begin the process of suspending your license. For many people, losing the ability to drive means losing access to work, school, and family responsibilities.
Understanding how a DWI charge and conviction affect your driver’s license is an integral part of protecting your future.
What Happens After a DWI Arrest in Texas?
When a person is arrested for DWI in Texas, the officer may take their driver’s license and issue a temporary driving permit. This triggers the Administrative License Revocation process, which is separate from the criminal case.
This process can lead to suspension if:
- The driver refused a breath or blood test.
- The test showed a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit.
- The driver had prior alcohol-related offenses.
The clock starts immediately, and strict deadlines apply.
How Long Can a License Be Suspended?
The length of a suspension depends on the circumstances of the arrest and the person’s driving history.
Possible suspension periods include:
- 90 days to one year for a first offense.
- Longer periods for refusal to submit to testing.
- Increased suspensions for repeat offenses.
- Additional time if a conviction is entered.
These suspensions can apply even if the criminal case is still pending.
What a DWI Conviction Adds
If a DWI conviction occurs, the criminal court will also impose penalties that affect driving privileges.
These may include:
- Mandatory license suspension.
- Installation of an ignition interlock device.
- Restricted driving privileges.
- Completion of alcohol education programs.
- Higher insurance requirements.
A conviction often extends or adds to the suspension already imposed through the administrative process.
Occupational Driver’s Licenses
In some cases, a person may be eligible for an occupational driver’s license that permits limited driving during a suspension.
This may allow driving for:
- Work.
- School.
- Essential household duties.
However, this requires court approval and compliance with strict conditions.
Why the ALR Hearing Matters
Many people do not realize they have the right to challenge their license suspension through an Administrative License Revocation hearing. This hearing allows a defense attorney to question the arresting officer and challenge whether the suspension should occur.
Winning this hearing can:
- Prevent a suspension.
- Expose weaknesses in the DWI case.
- Preserve driving privileges.
Missing the deadline to request a hearing often means losing this opportunity.
How Peek Law Group Can Help
Peek Law Group’s criminal defense attorneys help clients protect their driving privileges while fighting DWI charges. Our attorneys handle ALR hearings, pursue occupational licenses when needed, and work to minimize the long-term impact of a DWI case.
If you have been arrested for DWI in Texas, contact Peek Law Group as soon as possible. The sooner an attorney becomes involved, the more options you may have to protect your license and your future.
