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 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 you will be required to install an interlock on your vehicle(s).
- You may be able to get an Occupational license during your suspension period. Before the Texas DPS will reinstate your license following your suspension period or issue you an 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 state's minimum auto insurance liability coverage limits. You will also have to pay a license reinstatement fee to the DPS.