Driving while impaired (DWI) charges are among the most serious traffic infractions routinely prosecuted in Texas. Instead of a ticket, the accused driver is at risk of a criminal conviction that could lead to probation and incarceration. They may need to pay a fine. They are also likely at risk of losing their driving privileges.
People who get convicted of a DWI or plead guilty to DWI charges could face a driver’s license suspension that impacts their ability to work or care for their family. Losing a driver’s license can make it difficult to handle daily responsibilities and can endanger a person’s career. They may also incur major expenses while relying on on-demand transportation services.
When is a motorist at risk of losing their driver’s license to a suspension because of a DWI offense?
Any conviction can lead to a license suspension
Aggravating factors are not necessary for a DWI to carry licensing consequences. The prosecutor does not need to show that a driver was well over the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit or that they caused a crash. Even a prior conviction is not actually necessary for a driver’s license suspension after a DWI conviction. However, prior offenses can worsen the penalties that the courts impose.
After a first DWI offense, a motorist can lose their license for up to a year. After a second or subsequent DWI conviction, the maximum license suspension increases to two years. Those who have commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) for work may become ineligible for a year after a first offense or permanently after repeat DWI convictions.
The state can also require that the driver install an ignition interlock device (IID) in their vehicle when they regain their license. They must then perform a test before driving. The driver must pay to restore their license and cover all costs associated with IID installation, maintenance and calibration.
Those worried about the cost of losing their license or the professional consequences of a DWI conviction work with a criminal defense attorney. Responding assertively to pending DWI charges can help motorists protect their licenses and avoid a criminal record that could turn up indefinitely during background checks.