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State of Texas IID Requirements

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State of Texas IID Information

First Offense DWI in Texas

Driving while under the influence (DWI) is a serious offense in Texas. First-time DWI offenders are fined up to $2,000, and may receive up to 180 days in jail when convicted. They also could lose their driver’s license for up to a year. If a child is a passenger in the vehicle at the time of the offense, the fines, license suspension period, and jail time increase. Offenders are required to take a 12-hour DWI education course. Some drivers may be eligible for a restricted interlock license if they install an ignition interlock device at an approved provider like (Intoxalock ) and meet all other criteria. For all offenses, penalties increase if a child is present.

Second Offense DWI in Texas

Like many states, Texas has a tiered penalty system for repeat alcohol-related offenses. If a driver is caught for DWI a second time, the fines and other penalties increase. Drivers face fines of up to $4,000, plus a month to 12 months in jail if convicted. They may also have their driver license revoked or suspended for up to two years. Offenders are required to take a 32-hour DWI education course. Some may be eligible for a restricted interlock license if they install an IID.

Third Offense DWI in Texas

Anyone offending for a third time in Texas risks a $10,000 fine and two to 10 years in prison. They may also lose their driver’s license for up to two years. Offenders are required to take a 32-hour DWI education course. In some cases, drivers may be eligible for a restricted interlock license if they install an IID.

Getting a Restricted Interlock License in Texas

Some drivers are eligible for a restricted interlock license, that allows them to drive to a limited selection of approved places like school and work. To qualify, drivers must:

  • Hold a Texas driver’s license that is not expired
  • License cannot be suspended, revoked, cancelled, or denied for any reason other than the DWI offense
  • Offenders must obtain and show proof of appropriate insurance coverage
  • Complete the required 12 or 32-hour DWI education course and provide proof of completion
  • Driver must submit the restricted interlock license fee
  • Offenders may need to serve out the required suspension period, but not more than two years
  • Driver must have an IID installed by an approved provider like (Intoxalock ).
  • All outstanding reinstatement fees must be replaced
  • If a driver's license is suspended in addition to the IID requirement, the offender may be able to apply for an Occupational License. Check with the court or your attorney to determine if you are eligible for this

Prior to September 1, 2023, judges had discretion to require an ignition interlock device. As of September 1, 2023, they have limited discretion to do so, but most offenders are required to install an IID in order to get an Occupational Driver’s License.