First 24 Hours After Your DWI Arrest in Texas
You've just been through one of the most stressful experiences of your life. Here's exactly what to do, hour by hour.
⚠️ YOUR 15-DAY DEADLINE STARTS NOW
Request your ALR hearing with Texas DPS within 15 days of your arrest or face automatic license suspension.
Request ALR hearing now- •You're being booked and processed at the station or jail
- •Your BAC test results are being recorded — DWI in Texas is typically 0.08%+
- •You may be held until sober or until bail is posted
- •The officer has taken your license and issued a temporary permit
- •Remain calm and polite — everything you say can be used against you
- •Bail process in Texas: you may be released on bond or OR (own recognizance)
- •A friend or family member may need to pick you up
- •Your temporary license is valid — check it for the exact expiration date
- •Do NOT drive if you are still impaired in any way
- •Keep all paperwork from your arrest — you'll need it
- •Do NOT discuss your case with anyone except a lawyer
- •Write down EVERYTHING you remember: time, location, what the officer said, field tests, etc.
- •Request your ALR hearing — you have 15 days from arrest
- •Contact a qualified attorney — most offer free initial consultations
- •Take photos of any relevant evidence (marks, vehicle condition, location)
- •Contact Texas DPS if you have questions about your temporary permit
- •Don't post ANYTHING on social media — prosecutors check social media
- •Don't talk to police again without your attorney present
- •Don't miss your 15-day deadline — this is non-negotiable
- •Don't ignore this — it will NOT go away on its own
- •Don't take legal advice from friends or family — every case is different
- •Don't contact the other party if there was an accident
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