There are two separate driver’s license suspensions that you could face after getting stopped for driving while intoxicated in Texas. This includes an automatic administrative suspension triggered by your arrest as well as the criminal penalties related to a conviction. Even a first-time offender could go up to two years without a driver’s license after a DWI arrest and conviction.
Administrative License Revocation (ALR)
If police stop you and suspect you are driving while intoxicated, they will ask you to take a breath or blood test. Failing this test, or refusing to take the test, will result in an automatic license revocation (ALR). This ALR, overseen by the Texas Department of Public Safety, goes into effect 40 days after your arrest unless you request a hearing. If you call us about your case in time (within 15 days of your arrest), we can request this hearing for you.
Depending on whether you failed the test or refused to take it, and whether you have any previous offenses, you could lose your driver’s license for as little as 90 days or up to two years.
Criminal Conviction and Driver’s License Suspensions
If you are convicted of a DWI, you can lose your license for years. The length depends on whether you have prior convictions.
For a first-offense DWI conviction, you will face a license suspension that lasts between 90 days and one year.
For a second-offense DWI conviction, your license suspension will last between 180 days and two years.
For a third-offense DWI or one involving an injury accident or fatality, you face a license suspension that can last two years.
The following factors can also affect the length of your license suspension:
- A high blood alcohol concentration
- Whether you had a minor under 15 in the car
- You caused an accident while intoxicated
Let Our Team Help You Fight to Keep Your Driving Privileges
The Eddington Worley team will fight for your driver’s license. We can appeal your ALR, but you only have 15 days to notify the Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDPS) after your arrest, so you have to act quickly. We will represent you during the hearing and attempt to get the judge to overturn your ALR. Even if this is not possible, we will learn a lot about the prosecution’s evidence they will use in your criminal case.
We will also take on your criminal case, working to clear your name of the charges. If you do receive a suspension or revocation, we can help you apply for a restricted license. This license will allow you to drive to work or school, although you may need to install an ignition interlock system.
Call our team today at 855-600-6695 to learn more about how we can help you with your Texas drunk driving case.
Talk to a Texas Drunk Driving Defense Attorney About Your Case
If you face DWI charges in Texas, the drunk driving defense team from Eddington Worley can protect your rights and help you fight for a more favorable outcome in your case. We understand how important your driving privileges are. Let us help you get them back as soon as possible.
Call us today at 855-600-6695 to learn more about how we can go to work for you.
