How to Get Your Driver's License Back After a Texas DUI Conviction

 

Have you been convicted of a DUI in Texas? Then you are facing a driver’s license suspension for 90 days to two years, depending on how many past DUI convictions you have, your blood alcohol level at the time of arrest, and other factors. In order to get the best possible deal, it is advisable to have a Texas DUI attorney to work with you. He or she can also help you with the procedures for getting your driver’s license reinstatement when it comes time.

 

Process for Texas Driver’s License Reinstatement

 

Your best course of action to determine the specific requirements for your situation is to consult a DUI lawyer. You may have to show proof that you completed drug and alcohol treatment, serve jail time, complete community service hours, or pay fines.

 

Here are the general procedures. Pay the fees required via check or money order made out to TX DPS. Mail to:

Texas Department of Public Safety
Central Cash Receiving
P.O. Box 15999
Austin TX 78761-5999
 

Be sure to include your full name, date of birth, and driver’s license number. You will also need to get and submit proof of insurance (form SR-22) to the DPS, and you may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your car. If you were ordered to complete a repeat offender’s DWUI education program, you must send the certificate of completion to the DPS before your suspension period ends.

 

Restricted Driver’s License Eligibility

 

It is possible that you can qualify for an occupation license which would allow you to drive a non-commercial motor vehicle for only three specific circumstances: to and from work, school, and carrying out essential household duties. If you want to request one, contact the county or district court where you committed the offense. You will need to get an SR-22 certificate of insurance and pay an occupational license fee. You can submit the paperwork at your local DPS office.

 

Proof of Insurance: SR-22 Form

 

After your DUI conviction, your car insurance rates will skyrocket, doubling or even tripling. But you have to maintain the minimum insurance coverage required by the state in order to be able to drive. You can make sure your policy meets the requirements by calling your provider, and they can also file the necessary SR-22 form for you with the Texas Department of Safety.

 

Ignition Interlock Device Requirements

 

In some cases, Texas may require that you use an ignition interlock device on your car for a period of time. You will need to obtain an interlock restricted driver’s license and have the device installed on your car. You will be responsible for the cost of installation and maintenance and must keep the device on your car for the required amount of time. Any attempts to tamper with or disable the device, as well as any failed breath tests, will be recorded by the device, and they can be used to suspend your driver’s license again.

 

For More Information on Texas Driver’s License Reinstatement Requirements

 

If you still have questions about your situation, you can contact a Texas DUI attorney who can look over your situation and give you advice that can protect your driving privileges in the future. In some cases, such as convictions involving high blood alcohol content or a fatality, the process can be complicated and overwhelming, so it can help to have professional legal advice.

 

Of course, you can also contact the Texas Department of Safety directly with your questions:

Phone: (512) 424-2600
Email
Street Address:
Texas Department of Public Safety
5805 North Lamar Blvd.
Austin, Texas 78752-4422
Mailing Address:
Texas Department of Public Safety
P O Box 4087
Austin, Texas 78773-0001