Texas DWI Penalties: Consequences, Requirements, and Long-Term Impacts

A comprehensive overview of Texas DWI penalties, detailing fines, incarceration periods, and license suspensions for various offenses.

Understanding Texas DWI penalties can help you make decisions and avoid unexpected setbacks after a DWI conviction. New and experienced drivers gain confidence in their ability to follow the rules when they know how DWI laws work in the Lone Star State.

Knowing these laws also helps drivers who haven't faced a DWI situation in Texas, but who may be supporting a loved one through their own DWI.

In this informational guide, we walk you through what every driver should know about Texas DWI laws and penalties. This isn’t meant to be considered legal advice. Please consult with a DWI attorney familiar with Texas law for the most accurate information specific to your needs. Intoxalock has a list of DWI attorneys with ignition interlock legal experience who can help you regain your license legally in the state of Texas after a DWI.

Overview of Texas DWI Laws

Texas DWI laws discourage impaired driving to support safety on the road. The laws specify what driving while intoxicated means and set up guidelines for enforcing those rules throughout the state.

In Texas, you can be charged with a DWI if your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher while driving a vehicle, flying a plane, or operating a boat.

The thresholds are different for commercial drivers and minors. If you're under 21, any alcohol detected in your system may result in a charge, since Texas has a zero-tolerance policy for minors driving while intoxicated. For commercial drivers, a BAC of 0.04% or higher can result in a DWI charge in Texas.

If you're convicted of a DWI in Texas, you may face impaired driving penalties. These vary based on many factors, and we cover them in the sections below.

Penalties for First-Time DWI Offenses

A first-offense DWI conviction in Texas can result in a fine up to $2,000, up to 180 days in jail, and loss of your driver's license for up to 1 year.

Texas law may require 3 days in jail for a first offense conviction. DWI lawyers in Texas might help you avoid or reduce jail time for a first offense by seeking probation or another form of alternative sentencing.

Anyone under the age of 21 who's convicted of a first DWI may face:

• Fine of up to $500
• Mandatory participation in an alcohol awareness class
• Up to 40 hours of community service
• Suspension of driver's license for 60 days

If you have a commercial driver's license, it may be at risk after a DWI conviction.

Penalties for Repeat DWI Offenses

Texas DWI fines and jail time increase with each offense.

A second DWI conviction can result in a fine up to $4,000, 1 month to 1 year in jail, and loss of your driver's license for up to 2 years.

A third DWI conviction can result in fines up to $10,000, 2-10 years in prison, and loss of your driver's license for up to 2 years.

Consequences for Multiple DWI Offenses as Minors

Texas DWI penalties for second and further offenses are different for minors.

A second offense as a minor can result in required alcohol awareness class attendance, 40-60 hours of community service and a 120-day suspension of your driver's license.

If you're convicted of a third DWI offense as a minor, you may face fines up to $2,000 and time in jail up to 180 days, depending on your age.

Other Factors Increasing Texas DWI Penalties

If you're convicted of impaired driving with a child passenger in Texas, you might be charged with child endangerment and could face extra fees and jail time.

Administrative Penalties and License Suspensions

Texas DWI consequences can happen even if your BAC isn't verified by an objective test. For example, the Texas Department of Public Safety can suspend your license if you fail or refuse a breath or blood test on the road.

This is an administrative court process, not a criminal court process. You have a right to request an administrative hearing, but the timeline is tight, so you need to act quickly.

Ignition Interlock Device Requirements in Texas

An ignition interlock device is often part of DWI penalties in Texas, especially if you have multiple convictions or your case involves a high BAC. 

An IID is a small breathalyzer that's installed in your vehicle. You need to blow into it before starting your car. If any alcohol is detected in your breath, your vehicle won't start. Some IID systems also require you to test at random points while driving for added accuracy and safety.

Meeting the Texas ignition interlock requirements is your responsibility if a court has ordered you to do so. That includes working with an approved device installation company, paying for installation, using the IID as instructed, and keeping up with required maintenance and calibration.

Intoxalock has one of the largest installation networks in Texas. We also provide a special installation discount to some Texas customers. Call (877) 274-2270 today and find out just how easy it is to go through the IID process!

Long-Term Impacts of a DWI Conviction

DWI convictions can lead to long-term impacts. Even after you pay fines or serve jail time, you may deal with issues that affect:

• Your freedom: You could deal with restrictions on driving or participating in certain programs.
• Your relationships: Legal challenges could create stress within your family or romantic relationships.
• Your finances: You may need to budget for fines, IID costs, higher insurance rates, court fees, and other DWI-related expenses.
• Your career: A conviction might affect your job options, particularly if driving is part of your career.
• Your education: Colleges might consider previous criminal history in admissions or scholarship decisions. 

Preventive Measures and Safe Driving Tips

Avoid Texas DWI penalties by planning ahead and choosing not to drink and drive. If you plan to drink, avoid getting behind the wheel, have a designated driver, or use rideshare services.

Even one standard alcoholic drink could affect your ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. Many deadly accidents happen when drivers underestimate the impact of a drink or two at dinner or with friends. Staying safe requires making proactive, cautious decisions before getting behind the wheel.

If you're in a DWI situation, you can reduce the impact on your freedom and future. Concerned about DWI penalties? Contact us today and learn how our Intoxalock state specialists can help you navigate a Texas DWI and follow the state’s ignition interlock requirements.