After a DWI in Texas, there are a few things you need to take care of right away. You'll need to post bond to be released from jail, request a license-suspension hearing within 15 days, and connect with a lawyer who can guide you through what comes next.
Key Takeaways
- You’ll need to take some immediate actions, including posting bail and consulting a lawyer.
- You need to request an ALR hearing within 15 days of your arrest to protect your driver’s license from suspension.
- Potential penalties include fines, jail time, probation, community service, alcohol awareness programs, installation of an ignition interlock device, and a lifelong criminal record.
Texas DWI Penalties
Getting charged with a DWI in Texas is serious, but it doesn’t mean your life is over. The outcome depends on the facts of your case, your record, and the quality of your legal defense. With experienced representation, many people avoid conviction or minimize penalties.
Under Texas Penal Code §49.04, a first-time DWI is a Class B misdemeanor, unless aggravating factors (such as prior offenses or BAC ≥ 0.15) apply. Penalties escalate sharply with repeat convictions.
First DWI (Class B misdemeanor):
- Fine up to $2,000
- 3–180 days in jail
- License suspension up to 1 year
Second DWI (Class A misdemeanor):
- Fine up to $4,000
- 30 days to 1 year in jail
- License suspension up to 2 years
Third DWI (Third-degree felony):
- Fine up to $10,000
- 2 to 10 years in prison
- License suspension up to 2 years
Additional state fines of $3,000 to $6,000 may apply at sentencing.
At Michael & Associates, most clients avoid the maximum penalties through early intervention and strategic defense. The sooner we can start investigating the circumstances of your arrest, the better our odds of getting you the best possible outcome.
Collateral Consequences
A DWI conviction affects more than your license. It can appear in background checks, raise insurance costs, and restrict specific careers or travel opportunities.
Criminal Record and Background Checks
- A DWI conviction stays on your record permanently unless expunged (only possible if charges were dismissed or you were acquitted) or sealed through an Order of Nondisclosure.
- Employers, landlords, and lenders routinely screen for criminal records, making housing, credit, and job offers harder to secure.
Employment and Career Restrictions
Convictions can trigger disciplinary actions or disqualify applicants from:
- Jobs requiring a commercial driver’s license
- Education or medical professions
- Government or law enforcement roles
- Many private employers favor candidates with clean records.
Military Enlistment
A single DWI does not automatically disqualify you, but it complicates enlistment. Recruiters evaluate:
- Education and ASVAB score.
- References and community record.
- Conduct during court proceedings.
- Multiple convictions may require a waiver. A clean record greatly improves acceptance.
Travel Restrictions
- On probation or parole: You must obtain permission before leaving Texas.
- International travel: Some countries deny entry to people with DWIs—
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Canada: Bars entry after most DWIs.
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Mexico: Denies entry if the offense caused serious injury or death within 10 years.
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Several Middle Eastern and Asian countries also restrict entry
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Car Insurance
Insurance companies label DWI offenders as high-risk drivers.
- Texas premiums rise an average of 52% after a DWI.
- Surcharges last 3 to 5 years, and “good driver” discounts are revoked.
Can You Recover After a DWI?
Yes. Your life isn’t over just because you got a DWI. However, the consequences of a criminal conviction can last for years, and the costs can quickly soar past $25,000. The sooner you act, the better your chances of reducing or dismissing charges.
Next Steps
- Hire a DWI attorney immediately. Early legal action may prevent license suspension and reduce charges.
- Comply with all court requirements — pay all fines, complete probation, and schedule any mandatory counseling.
- Avoid repeat offenses and maintain clean driving behavior.
Michael & Associates has defended thousands of Texans against DWI charges, helping many avoid conviction and rebuild their lives.
Get a free case review today. Call (512) 488-5775 or visit zealousadvocate.com to speak directly with a defense attorney.
FAQs
Is my life over after a DWI?
No. A DWI is serious, but it's not the end of the world. With an experienced Texas DWI lawyer, you may be able to reduce penalties, protect your license, or even have charges dismissed.
How long does a DWI stay on your record in Texas?
A DWI stays on your criminal record permanently unless it’s dismissed or expunged. Texas does not allow automatic removal after a set time.
How much does a DWI increase insurance rates in Texas?
Texas drivers pay about 52% more for car insurance after a DWI. Higher premiums usually last three to five years.
Can a DWI affect my job or travel?
Yes. A conviction can appear on background checks, limit certain careers, and restrict travel to countries like Canada and Mexico.
Sources
Michael & Associates research, Texas DWI and DUI glossary, Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Department of Public Safety, and Chapter 49 of the Texas Penal Code.
