Harris County DWI Bail Guide
Bail amounts, how bonds work, and what to expect when getting released.
Last verified: January 6, 2026
DWI Bail Amounts
| Offense | Bail |
|---|---|
| 1st Offense | $500 – $1,000 |
| 2nd Offense | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Felony (3rd+) | $10,000+ |
| With Child | $10,000+ |
Amounts vary by criminal history, BAC level, and circumstances. Bondsman fee: 10% (non-refundable).
Where to Post Bail
How Bail Bonds Work
The Process
Contact a bondsman
Available 24/7
Pay 10% fee
Non-refundable
Bondsman posts bail
They guarantee the court
You're released
Must attend all court dates
Co-Signer Warning
If you co-sign, you are legally responsible if the defendant fails to appear.
- 100% liable for full bail amount
- Collateral (house, car) can be seized
- Cannot cancel once signed
Release Timeline
Booking
2-8 hrsFingerprints, photos, background check
Arraignment
24-48 hrsJudge sets bail amount
Bail Posted
1-4 hrsPaperwork signed, fee paid
Release
2-6 hrsProperty returned
Booking
2-8 hours
Fingerprints, photos, background check
Arraignment
24-48 hours
Judge sets bail amount
Bail Posted
1-4 hours
Paperwork signed
Release
2-6 hours
Property returned
Total: 12-48 Hours
Weekends and holidays take longer.
FAQ
Harris County's custodial system's operational center is the Joint Processing Center (JPC) located at 700 North San Jacinto Street, Houston, Texas 77002. It operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including all holidays.
Understanding DUI Bail in Harris County, Texas
If you've been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in Harris County, understanding the bail process is crucial. This guide provides information specific to Harris County to help navigate this challenging time.
The Booking Process and Initial Detention
After a DWI arrest in Harris County, you'll likely be taken to the Joint Processing Center (JPC) at 700 North San Jacinto Street in Houston. Here, you will undergo identity verification, medical and mental health screening, and initial classification. The JPC is the central intake point for the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) and the Houston Police Department (HPD).
To confirm a detainee's presence, use the online "Find Someone in Jail" tool (harriscountyso.org/JailInfo/HCSO_FindSomeoneInJail.aspx) or call the information line at (713) 755-5300 or (346) 286-1600. Pretrial Services (JPC Branch) can be reached at (346) 286-1400.
Harris County Detention Facilities
After processing at the JPC, inmates are assigned to housing units based on security risk, medical needs, and other factors. The downtown detention complex includes facilities near San Jacinto and Baker Streets. However, due to overcrowding, Harris County relies on outsourcing inmates to other facilities, even out of state.
Outsourcing of Inmates
It's important to be aware that you might be transferred to a facility far from Houston. Some designated outsourcing locations used by Harris County include:
- LaSalle Correctional Center (Olla, LA)
- Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility (Tutwiler, MS)
- LaSalle - Jefferson County Downtown Jail (Beaumont, TX)
- LaSalle - Natchitoches Parish Detention Center (Natchitoches, LA)
These transfers can create logistical challenges for legal representation, so verifying the inmate's location is essential. The "Find Someone in Jail" tool on the HCSO website lists these outsource facilities.
Bond Options in Harris County
Harris County utilizes a tripartite bail system:
-
Cash Bonds: Posting the full bail amount with the Harris County Sheriff or District Clerk. This is refundable (less a 5% administrative fee capped at $50) upon the case's conclusion, assuming all court appearances were made. The refund process typically takes 6-8 weeks.
-
Surety Bonds: Using a bail bond agent, which requires paying a non-refundable premium to secure release. Senate Bill 1151 mandates a minimum premium of 10% of the total bond amount.
The HCSO's Public Inmate Inquiry system provides information about booking date, court assignment, bond amount (Cash, Surety, or Personal), and fine status.
Important Contact Information
- Joint Processing Center (JPC): 700 North San Jacinto Street, Houston, Texas 77002
- HCSO "Find Someone in Jail" Tool: harriscountyso.org/JailInfo/HCSO_FindSomeoneInJail.aspx
- HCSO Information Line: (713) 755-5300 or (346) 286-1600
- Pretrial Services (JPC Branch): (346) 286-1400
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