Were you recently arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI)? Or, did you refuse or fail to complete a blood or breath test during a DWI stop? If your answer is “yes” to either question, you’ll be interested in learning about the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) and how it impacts you.
During a DWI stop, if the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is above a certain threshold, he or she is considered to have “failed” the test and their license will be automatically suspended.
How does the automatic suspension work? Upon failing the blood or breath test, the driver is served a notice from the officer on the spot stating that his or her driver license will be suspended for refusing or failing the field sobriety test. According to dps.texas.gov, “Registering a 0.08 BAC or greater is considered failing.”
ALR Hearings in Texas
When a DWI suspect receives a suspension notice during a DWI stop, the suspect has 15 days from the date of the suspension notice to request a hearing to contest the suspension of their driving privilege. If the driver fails to request a hearing, their license will automatically be suspended 40 days after the DWI arrest.
When the individual is arrested for DWI, the arresting officer will confiscate the person’s driver license and issue them a temporary driving permit. In order for the driver to get their driver license back, they will have to pay a $125 reinstatement fee.
Related: DWI With a Child in the Vehicle
In certain situations, DWI defendants are qualified to request a hearing to contest the administrative license revocation (ALR). However, they must submit their request within the 15-day deadline. During the hearing, an Administrative Law Judge listens to both sides. If the judge sides with the defendant, their license will not be suspended.
If you’re facing an ALR in DWI in Plano, Dallas, or Fort Worth, The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC can help! Remember, you have just 15 days to request a hearing, so don’t delay!