The Cost of a DWI Conviction in Texas
In addition to the criminal fines and penalties, if you are convicted of Driving While Intoxicated in Houston, Texas, you will likely have to pay for bail (to get out of jail), have an ignition interlock installed in your vehicle, and towing charges because your car will likely be impounded.
If convicted there will also be Driver’s License Surcharges (these surcharges may be waived if you are found indigent Tex. Transp. Code § 708.102 & § 701.158) for 3 years after the conviction, consisting of:
• DWI 1st Offense: $1,000
• DWI Subsequent Offense: $1,500
• DWI with BAC of .16 or higher $2,000
Additionally, your insurance rates can triple after a DWI conviction.
You may also have to pay probation fees for 2 years:
• Up to $60/month probation fees for 2 years (Art. 42.12 § 19 Tex. Code Crim. Proc.)
• Criminal Fines as high as $2,000
• Court Costs up to $500
• Cost of attending alcohol counseling/treatment
• Possible cost of installing an Ignition Interlock Device during any probation period (if BAC was .16 or higher)
Total Cost: Anywhere between $5,000 and $50,000 (this is an estimate)
What is the Difference Between a DWI and DUI in Texas?
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI): The arrestee gave a breath or blood specimen and failed (indicated over .08 Blood Alcohol Level)
Driving Under the Influence (DUI): The arrestee is a minor who had any detectable amount of alcohol in his/her system.
DWI Law in Texas is subject to change. Therefore nothing on this website should be considered valid legal advice. You should consult an attorney if you have any questions regarding the law or your legal rights.
Click here to read about jail time and possible sentences resulting from DWI Conviction.