What began as a fun night with friends can quickly go south when you make the decision to get behind the wheel after having too many drinks. Not only will you face a criminal charge, but your license will be revoked. If you are charged with driving while intoxicated, understanding the steps you should take to regain control of your license is essential. Continue reading to learn how to get a license reinstated and how Houston DWI defense attorneys can help you navigate this process.
What Steps Do I Need to Take to Get My License Reinstated Following a DWI?
Immediately following a DWI arrest in Texas, your license will be automatically suspended. However, you have a few options to retain the right to drive.
The most common way for people to keep control of their license is to request an ALR (administrative license revocation) hearing following the arrest. It is important to note that you must request this hearing within 15 days of your arrest. If you can win this case, your license will not be suspended. If you lose, don’t panic; there are still options.
An alternative option for those who may have lost their ALR hearing is to apply for an occupational driver’s license (ODL). This is a limited license that grants a person with a suspended license the ability to drive under certain conditions. For example, an applicant must detail why they must travel, when they will drive, and the route they will take. Generally, this is only available for people who are in school, have a job, or are the primary provider of their household.
If you apply for an ODL, you’ll also need to fill out an SR-22, which is a form confirming that you have obtained the minimum possible insurance coverage. You will then pay an occupation license fee and a license reinstatement fee.
Do I Need an Attorney to Help?
Unfortunately, there are a number of actions that constitute a DWI charge. For example, sleeping in your car while intoxicated with the keys in the ignition can land you with a criminal charge, despite having no intention of driving. Instead of accepting your DWI charge, you’ll want to do everything in your power to keep your record clean.
It is imperative that you hire an attorney as soon as possible when facing a license suspension, as they will be able to help improve your chances of getting your license reinstated.
When facing any criminal charges, ensuring you have the assistance of an experienced lawyer is essential. At the Gonzalez Law Group, our dedicated legal team will explore every possible avenue to aid in your defense. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate this process.