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What Happens After a DWI Arrest in Texas?
From booking to arraignment to trial — the full timeline of a Texas DWI case.
Last updated: March 3, 2026
Quick Answer
After a Texas DWI arrest, you'll be booked, bonded out (usually within 12-24 hours), and receive an arraignment date. You have 15 days from being served the notice of suspension (20 from the mailing date if it is mailed after a lab result) to request an ALR hearing to fight license suspension. The criminal case typically takes 3-6 months to resolve through plea negotiation or trial. Most first-offense cases end in a plea deal with probation.
A DWI case in Texas typically takes 3-12 months from arrest to resolution, depending on complexity and whether you go to trial.
Timeline
You're arrested, booked, and typically released on bond within 24 hours. You receive paperwork including your temporary license.
You must request an ALR hearing to contest your license suspension. This is SEPARATE from your criminal case.
Your first court appearance. You enter a plea (typically "not guilty" to preserve options). An attorney can appear for you in most cases.
Your attorney reviews evidence (police reports, video, breath test results). Most cases are negotiated during this phase.
Case ends via plea agreement (most common), dismissal, or trial. Sentencing occurs if convicted.
These timelines are approximate. Your case may move faster or slower depending on court schedules, evidence complexity, and negotiation progress.