While having your DWI dismissed is certainly a relief, you will need to take steps to reinstate your driver’s license. An experienced Austin criminal defense lawyer can assist you. So, if your DWI case is dismissed, how can you get your license back? In this blog post, we’ll explore what it takes to get your driving privileges reinstated after a DWI dismissal.

Restore your Legal Driving Rights in Texas

 An Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing gives you the ability to reinstate a suspended license after a DWI arrest when a driver refuses or fails a sobriety test. In Texas, you must act within 15 days to contest your license suspension. Unfortunately, it can take time for a hearing date to be set. The “Notice of Suspension” (DIC 25) allows for a temporary driving permit during the process of contesting your license suspension. 

At the ALR hearing, Texas DPS bears the responsibility for proving you should not get your license back. Following the hearing, the Administrative Law Judge will issue a final decision. If DPS proves you should not get your license reinstated, the judge will authorize a driver’s license suspension. If the judge rules in your favor, your license won’t be suspended. From there, you can expect the following:

• Pay the Required Fee: The cost of reinstating your driver’s license varies, but it usually falls between $100 and $500, depending on the length of your suspension and the type of license you are reinstating (regular or commercial).
• Approval and Processing: Once you’ve submitted the application and fee, it typically takes two to three months for DPS to process the application. However, having an experienced Austin DUI lawyer can expedite the process by ensuring all paperwork is filled out correctly and submitted on time.

Will I Get my License Back If my DUI is Dismissed?

To be clear, having your DWI case dismissed is positive, and it removes the immediate threat of losing your license. However, it doesn’t automatically guarantee the reinstatement of your driver’s license. Understand that the criminal charges and the administrative process for license suspension are separate. Even if the criminal charges are dismissed, the DPS may still have grounds to suspend your license based on the results of the ALR hearing or other factors. 

How Much Time Do I Have to Start this Process?

Timing is crucial when applying to reinstate your license in Texas. It’s worth restating that you only have 15 days to request an ALR hearing. Failing to meet this deadline may result in an automatic suspension of your license. The sooner you take action, the sooner you can regain your driving privileges. Don’t delay.

How Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Assist You?

As experienced Austin DWI lawyers, here are a few benefits we can offer to those facing a license suspension after a DUI dismissal:

• ALR Hearing Representation: If you need to attend an ALR hearing, an Austin DWI lawyer can represent you and present your case effectively. We’ll argue why your license should not be suspended and work to protect your driving privileges.
• Paperwork Assistance: The process of applying for license reinstatement involves filling out various forms and submitting the correct paperwork. The Law Office of David D. White can assist you in completing these documents accurately and efficiently.
• Legal Advice: As DUI attorneys, we have in-depth knowledge of the legal system and the requirements for license reinstatement. We can guide you through the necessary steps to ensure you meet all the deadlines and requirements.
• Advocacy and Negotiation: We will serve as your advocate throughout the process, negotiating on your behalf with the DPS.

With our guidance, you can navigate the license reinstatement process successfully and get back on the road.

Contact an Austin Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you need assistance with license reinstatement, The Law Office of David D. White: Austin Criminal Lawyer can help. Our savvy team of Austin criminal defense lawyers knows the system and the process inside-out. To get started before it’s too late, contact our offices now.