Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Texas

DUI and DWI -- Two Different Charges

Often when someone is charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), he or she thinks the charge is Driving Under the Influence (DUI). In many states, DUI and DWI are the same, but in Texas, they are two different charges.

The differences between DUI and DWI greatly out number the similarities.

DUI pertains solely to minors, individuals under the age of 21 Alcohol must only be detected in your system -- BAC is of no consequence Arrest for DUI is at the officer's discretion DUI charges can coincide with a DWI charges -- if over the age of 17

DUI Penalties

Similar to DWI, the penalties of a DUI conviction are dependent on the number of prior convictions.

Prior Conviction	License Suspension	Jail/Probation	Fine	Community Service
0	60 days	Probation	$500	20-40 hours
1	90 days	Probation	$500	20-40 hours
2	180 days	Possible Jail	$2,000	40-60 hours

With a DUI charge, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) initiates an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) proceeding against you, and as in a DWI suspension, you have 15 days to request an ALR hearing.