What Is the Penalty for a First-Offense DWI in Texas? A first-offense DWI, with no aggravating factors, is considered a Class B misdemeanor. A conviction is punishable by up to 180 days in jail, up to $2,000 in fines, or both. You also face a driver's license suspension of up to one year if you become convicted.
Everyone charged with DWI in Texas, even first-time offenders, faces a minimum of 6 months in jail. Texas DWI Penalties are severe. First-time DWI offenders face up to 1 year in jail, a $6,000.00 fine, court costs, a driver license suspension, and a permanent criminal conviction.
DWI Penalties in Texas ConvictionFirst Offense DWI Jail or Prison Sentence 6 to 180 days county jail License Suspension 90 days to one year Conviction 2nd Offense DWI Offense Level Class A Misdemeanor45 more rows
The DWI process in Texas Charged and arrested. Intoxication testing and booking. Contact an attorney. Arraignment. Bail and jail release. Court proceedings and legal representation. Pre-trial and plea negotiations.
What are the penalties for first-time DWI in Texas? Under Texas law, first-time DWI charges are Class B misdemeanors, typically carrying a fine of up to $3,000 and 180 days in county jail. However, the severity of DWI charges in Texas can vary significantly based on the circumstances, as shown in the table below.
Is My Driver's License Suspended Immediately After a DWI Arrest in Texas? You won't actually lose your driving privileges for about 40 days. You must request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing within 15 days of your arrest.
First offense Up to a $2,000 fine. Up to 180 days in jail upon conviction with three mandatory days. Loss of driver license up to a year.
In addition to addressing your ALR, you face an arraignment for your DWI. This is your first court date. You will hear the charges against you, the prosecutor's evidence, the potential statutory penalties, and then you have the opportunity to plead guilty or not guilty.
You should interview and retain a lawyer as soon as possible. In Texas, you have 15 days to request a hearing to keep your drivers license. If you do not, your license will be suspended. It is helpful to have an attorney at the first court setting.
In addition to addressing your ALR, you face an arraignment for your DWI. This is your first court date. You will hear the charges against you, the prosecutor's evidence, the potential statutory penalties, and then you have the opportunity to plead guilty or not guilty.