What Are the Penalties for a First DWI Offense?

In Texas, the penalties for a DWI conviction are structured to increase with each subsequent offense. The specifics of these penalties are determined by the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of the arrest, whether a minor was present in the vehicle, and the number of prior DWI convictions.

If you have a clean criminal record, there was no minor in the vehicle, and your BAC was less than 0.15, you will likely be charged with a Class B Misdemeanor.  The punishment range is up to 180 days in County Jail, fines up to $2,000, and a potential license suspension from 90 days to 1 year.  Additional penalties may include a DWI Education Course, community service (depending on the County of arrest), and installation of ignition interlock device (IID).

If you have been arrested for a first-time DWI offense, there are numerous ways to fight the case and hopefully obtain a dismissal.  A DWI conviction can have devastating and long-lasting consequences – even for a first-time offense.  To protect your future, it’s critical to speak with an experienced Texas DWI Attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and the best ways to resolve your case.  There are important deadlines involving your license and other issues that a DWI Defense Attorney can explain and help you understand.