Steps to Take After a DWI Arrest in Texas: A Complete Guide by Alamo Center

Being arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Texas can be an overwhelming experience. From jail bookings and court appearances to license suspensions and mandatory education programs, the aftermath of a DWI requires immediate attention and proactive steps to protect your rights, freedom, and future.

This comprehensive guide outlines what to do after a DWI arrest and how Alamo Center can help you comply with state requirements through our approved online DWI classes.

Step 1: Understand That You’re Dealing with Two Cases

A DWI arrest in Texas actually results in two separate legal actions:

1. Criminal Case: The State of Texas alleges you drove while intoxicated.
2. Administrative Case (ALR): The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) seeks to suspend your driver’s license.

Failing to act promptly in either case can have long-term consequences. The most urgent matter is the ALR process.

Step 2: Act Within 15 Days – ALR Hearing Request

Upon arrest, you have only 15 days to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. Missing this deadline means your license will be automatically suspended.

Even if your first court date is weeks away, this administrative timeline moves quickly. Your best course of action is to hire an experienced DWI attorney immediately and let them file the hearing request for you.

Step 3: Hire a Knowledgeable DWI Attorney

According to Trichter, LeGrand, Houlton & White, an elite Texas DWI defense law firm, hiring a qualified attorney is the most important step you can take post-arrest.

What to Ask When Interviewing Attorneys:

• Do you regularly handle DWI cases?
• Are you familiar with ALR hearings and license suspension laws?
• Do you understand breath/blood testing equipment and procedures?
• Are you trained in field sobriety test protocols (NHTSA standards)?
• Can you explain all potential outcomes, including PTI programs, plea deals, or trials?

If an attorney cannot confidently answer these questions, keep looking.

Need help navigating court-ordered class requirements? Alamo Center offers state-approved DWI education online.

Step 4: Review Your Bond Conditions

After release from jail, you may be subject to specific bond conditions. These may include:

• Installing an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle
• Submitting to random drug and alcohol testing
• Regularly checking in with court staff or pretrial services

Failing to comply with these conditions can lead to a bond revocation and return to jail.

Step 5: Begin Building Your Defense

Once you’ve hired your attorney and addressed your bond and license issues, it’s time to focus on building a defense. Your lawyer will:

• Review police reports
• Request dashcam or bodycam footage
• Analyze breath or blood test procedures
• Investigate possible constitutional violations (e.g., unlawful stop or arrest)
• An aggressive and experienced DWI defense attorney will explore all options, including dismissal, plea negotiations, PTI programs, or trial.

Step 6: Take Court-Ordered DWI Education Classes

Whether you’re a first-time offender or facing multiple DWI charges, Texas courts and DPS often require successful completion of a certified educational course.

Alamo Center offers the following TDLR-approved courses online:

DWI Education Course (First Offense)

• 12 hours total
• Required to maintain or reinstate driving privileges
• 100% Online

DWI Intervention Program (Repeat Offenders)

32 hours total
Required for 2nd or 3rd DWI convictions
Live Online Instruction

Drug Offender Education Program (DOEP)

• 15 hours total
• Required for many drug-related offenses
• Virtual, Instructor-Led Sessions

📞 Enroll now: (210) 824-5537
✉️ Email: [email protected]
🌐 www.alamocenter.org

Step 7: Know the Risks of Doing Nothing

Some people choose to do nothing after a DWI arrest, either out of fear or denial. This is a costly mistake.

If you fail to act:

• Your license may be suspended for months or years
• You could face mandatory jail time
• You might lose employment, especially if you need a CDL
• The DWI could stay on your criminal record permanently

Even first-time offenders face up to 1 year in jail, up to $4,000 in fines, and multiple collateral consequences. Ignoring your case empowers the State to prosecute you aggressively.

Step 8: Think Twice About Hiring a Public Defender

While public defenders are often competent, they are typically overworked and under-resourced. When facing a complex and consequential charge like DWI, you need a specialist.

A few risks of relying solely on a public defender:

• Less time devoted to your case
• Less experience with DWI-specific laws
• Missed deadlines for ALR hearings or license defense
• Inadequate understanding of programs that may help dismiss your case

As Greg Houlton of Trichter & LeGrand puts it, “Just because it’s free doesn’t mean it’s right. You get what you pay for, and in this case, it could cost you your freedom.”

Step 9: Learn About PTI and Alternative Programs

Some counties, like Harris County, offer Pretrial Intervention (PTI) programs. These allow you to complete probation-like terms in exchange for having your DWI case dismissed after a set period.

Requirements may include:

• Completion of a DWI education course
• Random drug testing
• No new offenses during the program term
• Monthly supervision meetings

Talk to your attorney about whether you qualify for a PTI or diversion program in your county.

Step 10: Commit to Compliance and Recovery

A DWI arrest doesn’t have to define your future. With the right attorney and a commitment to fulfilling your legal obligations, you can recover and rebuild.

Alamo Center is here to support you. Our courses help you:

• Comply with court and DPS requirements
• Reinstate your driver’s license
• Avoid extended suspension periods
• Satisfy probation or PTI terms

💻 Register for a class today: www.alamocenter.org
📞 Call us at: (210) 824-5537
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Final Word: Be Proactive

The decisions you make in the first two weeks after a DWI arrest in Texas can change the trajectory of your life. Act fast. Find an attorney who knows DWI law. Protect your license and liberty. And don’t skip your court-ordered DWI classes.

Alamo Center offers flexible, online courses that meet all Texas DPS and court requirements. We’re here to help you move forward with confidence and compliance.

Over 30 years of service to Texans navigating court-mandated education.
Visit us at www.alamocenter.org or call (210) 824-5537 to get started today.