Camp County License Hearing Guide

Camp DUI License Suspension & ALR Hearing

A DUI arrest in Camp, Texas can trigger two separate legal processes: a criminal case and an administrative license suspension. While the criminal case deals with the charges against you, the administrative process, handled by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), focuses solely on your driving privileges. This guide focuses on the latter, specifically the ALR (Administrative License Revocation) hearing and how to fight to keep your license after a DUI arrest in Camp. Time is of the essence, so read carefully and act quickly!

CRITICAL DEADLINE: Request Hearing Within 15 Days

After a DUI arrest in Camp, you have a very limited time to protect your driving privileges. You MUST request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing within 15 days of your arrest. This is a crucial step in potentially avoiding an automatic license suspension.

Where to Request:

You must request the hearing from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

How to Request:

You can request the hearing through the following methods:

• Online: Visit the Texas DPS website (search for "Texas DPS ALR Hearing Request"). This is often the fastest method.
• Phone: Call the Texas DPS at the number provided on your temporary driving permit or the arrest paperwork. Be prepared to provide information about your arrest.
• Mail: Send a written request to the address listed on your temporary permit or arrest paperwork. Ensure it's postmarked within the 15-day deadline. It's recommended to send it certified mail with return receipt requested.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline:

If you fail to request an ALR hearing within the 15-day deadline, your Texas driver's license will be automatically suspended. You will lose your driving privileges, making it difficult to get to work, school, or handle essential errands. Don't let this happen!

Automatic License Suspension

Even if you request a hearing, your license may still be subject to automatic suspension pending the outcome of the hearing. The reasons for this suspension differ depending on whether you took a breath or blood test and the results.

If You Took the Breath/Blood Test and Failed

• BAC Over 0.08: If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.08 or higher, your license will be suspended. The suspension period for a first offense DUI in Texas is typically 90 days to 1 year. The exact length depends on the specific circumstances of your case.
• Temporary Permit Valid Until Hearing or Suspension Begins: After your arrest, you were likely issued a temporary driving permit. This permit is generally valid for 40 days from the date of your arrest, or until the outcome of your ALR hearing, whichever comes first. If you lose the ALR hearing (or don't request one), the suspension will begin, and your temporary permit will no longer be valid.

If You Refused Testing

• Refusal Penalty: Refusing to submit to a breath or blood test carries a harsher penalty than failing the test. If you refused testing, your license will be suspended for a longer period, typically 180 days to 2 years for a first offense.
• Implied Consent Law in Texas: Texas operates under an "implied consent" law. This means that by driving on Texas roads, you have implicitly agreed to submit to chemical testing if lawfully arrested for suspicion of DUI. Refusal to do so carries significant consequences.

The ALR/Administrative Hearing

The ALR hearing is your opportunity to challenge the suspension of your driver's license before it takes effect.

What It Is

• Separate From Criminal Court: The ALR hearing is a civil proceeding, completely separate from the criminal DUI case. The outcome of the ALR hearing does not directly impact the criminal charges against you.
• Decides If License Suspension Is Warranted: The purpose of the hearing is to determine whether the DPS has sufficient evidence to suspend your license.
• Lower Burden of Proof Than Criminal Trial: The standard of proof in an ALR hearing is lower than in a criminal trial. The DPS only needs to show "preponderance of the evidence" (more likely than not) to justify the suspension, rather than "beyond a reasonable doubt."

How to Prepare

• Gather Evidence (Witness Statements, Video, etc.): If there are any witnesses to the arrest or any video footage (e.g., dashcam, bodycam) that could be helpful to your case, gather it as quickly as possible.
• Consider Hiring a DUI Attorney: Navigating the ALR hearing process can be complex. A qualified Camp, TX DUI attorney can represent you at the hearing, present evidence on your behalf, and cross-examine the arresting officer. This significantly increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
• Understand What You Can Challenge: You can challenge the following at the ALR hearing:
• Whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to stop you.
• Whether the officer had probable cause to arrest you for DUI.
• Whether you were properly informed of your rights regarding chemical testing.
• Whether the breath or blood test was administered correctly.
• The accuracy and reliability of the breath or blood test results.

Possible Outcomes

• Suspension Upheld: If the DPS presents sufficient evidence, the administrative law judge (ALJ) will uphold the suspension of your license.
• Suspension Overturned: If you successfully challenge the DPS's evidence or the ALJ finds that the DPS did not meet its burden of proof, the suspension will be overturned, and you will retain your driving privileges.
• Restricted/Hardship License Granted: In some cases, even if the suspension is upheld, you may be eligible for a restricted or hardship license (discussed below).

Hardship/Restricted License in Texas

Even if your license is suspended, you might be eligible for an Occupational Driver's License (ODL), also known as a hardship license. This allows you to drive for essential purposes, such as work, school, or medical appointments.

• Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible for an ODL, you must:
• Prove that you need to drive for essential purposes.
• Not have any other valid driver's license.
• Not have certain disqualifying convictions (e.g., vehicular manslaughter).
• What You Can Drive For (Work, School, Medical): An ODL typically restricts you to driving only for work, school, or essential medical appointments. The judge will specify the hours and locations you are permitted to drive.
• Costs and Application Process: Applying for an ODL involves filing a petition with the court, paying court fees, and providing evidence of your need to drive. Consult with a local attorney to ensure you complete the process correctly.
• IID Requirement: In some cases, the court may require you to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle as a condition of obtaining an ODL, particularly if your BAC was high or if you have prior DUI convictions.

Getting Your License Back

Once your suspension period is over, you will need to take steps to reinstate your license.

After Criminal Case Concludes

• Reinstatement Requirements: Reinstatement requirements vary depending on the outcome of your criminal case and the length of your suspension. Generally, you will need to:
• Pay a reinstatement fee to the Texas DPS.
• Provide proof of completion of any required alcohol education programs or community service.
• Comply with any court orders related to your criminal case.
• Fees: Reinstatement fees can vary, so contact the Texas DPS for the current fee schedule.
• SR-22 Insurance Requirement: You may be required to obtain SR-22 insurance, which is a certificate of financial responsibility, for a certain period. This demonstrates that you have adequate insurance coverage.
• Classes/Programs That Must Be Completed: Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be required to complete an alcohol education program or participate in community service.

Camp DMV Offices

Unfortunately, since Camp, Texas has no population, there are no local DPS offices within the city limits. You will need to travel to a nearby city for DPS services. Here are a few options:

• Mount Pleasant DPS Office:
• Pittsburg DPS Office:
• Sulphur Springs DPS Office:

It is highly recommended to check the DPS website or call ahead to confirm hours of operation and any specific requirements for your visit.

Special Programs

• Ignition Interlock Device Program: As mentioned above, the court may order you to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle as a condition of probation or obtaining an ODL. This device requires you to blow into it before starting your car, and it prevents the car from starting if it detects alcohol.
• Occupational License: Discussed above, this allows limited driving privileges during a suspension.
• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Programs: TxDOT offers various programs related to driver safety and education. Check their website for more information.

Remember, time is crucial after a DUI arrest. Request your ALR hearing within 15 days and consult with a qualified DUI attorney in the Camp, Texas area as soon as possible to protect your rights and driving privileges.