A first offense DWI conviction is a class “B” Misdemeanor offense with the following penalties:
- A jail sentence of 72 hours, or if there was an open container in the vehicle at the time of the arrest, the jail sentence will be 6 days.
- The fine amount will be up to $2,000 plus associated court costs. Texas imposes a surcharge additional to the fine listed above in the amount of $1,000. You will will have to pay this additional surcharge for 3 consecutive years. If your BAC level was .16% or greater, the surcharge amount will be $2,000 per year for 3 years.
- Your license will be suspended for 90 – 180 days.
- You will be required to attend a state approved 12-hour DWI class. You must complete the program within 180 days of your probation otherwise your license may be revoked.
- A chemical test refusal will result in a 180 day license suspension.
- You will be required to perform from 24 hours up to 100 hours community service.
- If you had a BAC of .15% or greater will be required to install an interlock on their vehicle(s).
- You may be able to get a Occupational license during your suspension period. Before the Texas DPS will reinstate your license following your suspension period or issue you a Occupational license, you will be required to show proof of financial responsibility in the form of a Texas SR-22 insurance policy that meets the states minimum auto insurance liability coverage limits. You will also have to pay a license reinstatement fee to the DPS.
