Wilbarger County License Hearing Guide

Wilbarger DUI License Suspension & ALR Hearing: Act FAST to Protect Your Driving Privileges

A DUI arrest in Wilbarger, Texas, can trigger a license suspension completely separate from the criminal charges you're facing. This administrative process, handled by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), can take your license away even before your criminal case goes to court. This guide explains the crucial steps you need to take immediately to protect your driving privileges. Time is of the essence!

CRITICAL DEADLINE: Request a Hearing Within 15 Days!

After a DUI arrest in Wilbarger, the Texas DPS will likely send you a notice of suspension. You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. This hearing is your opportunity to challenge the suspension of your driver's license. Miss this deadline, and your license will automatically be suspended.

Where to Request the Hearing:

You need to request the ALR hearing through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

How to Request the Hearing:

• Online: The fastest and most reliable way is to request the hearing online through the DPS website. Look for the "ALR Hearing Request" section.

• Phone: You can call the DPS to request a hearing. Be prepared to provide your driver's license number, date of birth, and details about your arrest. Keep a record of the date and time of your call, and the name of the person you spoke with.

• Mail: You can also request the hearing by mail. Send a written request to the DPS address listed on your suspension notice. Send it certified mail with return receipt requested so you have proof of delivery.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline:

If you fail to request an ALR hearing within 15 days, your license will be automatically suspended. This means you will not be able to legally drive in Texas for the duration of the suspension period. Don't let this happen!

Automatic License Suspension

A DUI arrest in Texas triggers an automatic license suspension under certain circumstances, regardless of whether you're ultimately convicted in criminal court. The grounds for suspension depend on whether you submitted to 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 length of the suspension period varies based on your driving record.

• First Offense: For a first offense, the suspension period is typically 90 days to 1 year.

• Temporary Permit: After the arrest, you might have been issued a temporary driving permit. This permit is generally valid until your ALR hearing or until the date your suspension officially begins, whichever comes first.

If You Refused Testing

Refusing to take a breath or blood test after a DUI arrest carries even harsher penalties in Texas.

• Refusal Penalty: The suspension period for refusing a breath or blood test is significantly longer than failing one. It's typically 180 days to 2 years for a first offense.

• Implied Consent Law in Texas: Texas has an "implied consent" law. This means that by driving on Texas roads, you've implicitly agreed to submit to a breath or blood test if lawfully arrested for DUI. Refusal to do so carries serious consequences.

The ALR/Administrative Hearing

The ALR hearing is a critical step in fighting your license suspension. It's important to understand what it is, how to prepare, and what the possible outcomes are.

What It Is

• Separate from Criminal Court: The ALR hearing is completely separate from your criminal DUI case. It's an administrative proceeding conducted by the Texas DPS.

• Decides If License Suspension Is Warranted: The purpose of the hearing is to determine whether there was sufficient evidence to justify your license suspension.

• Lower Burden of Proof Than Criminal Trial: The burden 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) that you were driving while intoxicated.

How to Prepare

Proper preparation is key to a successful ALR hearing.

• Gather Evidence: Gather any evidence that supports your case, such as witness statements, dashcam footage, or any documentation that challenges the basis for the stop or arrest.

• Consider Hiring a DUI Attorney: A qualified DUI attorney can represent you at the ALR hearing, present evidence on your behalf, cross-examine witnesses, and argue your case effectively. This is highly recommended.

• Understand What You Can Challenge: You can challenge various aspects of the arrest and the evidence against you, including:

• Whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to stop you.

• Whether the officer had probable cause to arrest you.

• The accuracy of the breath or blood test results.

• Whether you were properly informed of your rights.

Possible Outcomes

• Suspension Upheld: If the hearing officer finds that the DPS has met its burden of proof, your license suspension will be upheld.

• Suspension Overturned: If the hearing officer finds that the DPS has not met its burden of proof, the suspension will be overturned, and your license will be reinstated.

• Restricted/Hardship License Granted: In some cases, even if the suspension is upheld, you may be eligible for a restricted or hardship license (explained below).

Hardship/Restricted License in Texas

Even if your license is suspended, you may be able to obtain a restricted license (also called an occupational license) that allows you to drive for essential purposes.

• Eligibility Requirements: You must meet certain requirements to be eligible for a restricted license, including:

• Having no other valid driver's license.

• Demonstrating a need to drive for essential purposes (work, school, medical appointments).

• Completing any required alcohol education programs.

• What You Can Drive For: A restricted license typically allows you to drive only for:

• Work

• School

• Essential household duties

• Medical appointments

• Costs and Application Process: Applying for a restricted license involves a court process and requires filing a petition with the court. There are associated court costs and attorney fees if you hire legal representation.

• 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 a restricted license.

Getting Your License Back

Reinstating your license after a DUI suspension involves several steps.

After Criminal Case Concludes

Even if you win your ALR hearing, you still need to address the criminal charges. A conviction can lead to a separate suspension.

• Reinstatement Requirements: After the suspension period ends, you'll need to meet certain requirements to reinstate your license, including:

• Paying a reinstatement fee to the DPS.

• Fees: Reinstatement fees vary but are typically around $125.

• SR-22 Insurance Requirement: You may be required to obtain SR-22 insurance (proof of financial responsibility) for a specified period.

• Classes/Programs That Must Be Completed: You may be required to complete a DUI education program or other court-ordered classes.

Wilbarger DMV Offices

Unfortunately, Wilbarger County is a rural area, and there isn't a dedicated DPS office directly within the county. The nearest DPS offices are typically located in:

• Vernon, TX (Wilbarger County Seat): Contact the Wilbarger County Courthouse for possible DPS services or contact information for the nearest full-service DPS office.

Important: Contact the DPS directly or check their website (www.dps.texas.gov) for the most up-to-date information on locations, hours, and services offered. Call before you go to confirm hours and services.

Special Programs

• Ignition Interlock Device Program: Texas has a mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) program for many DUI offenders. An IID is a device installed in your vehicle that requires you to blow into it before starting the car. If the device detects alcohol, the car will not start.

• Occupational License: As discussed above, an occupational license allows you to drive for essential purposes during a license suspension.

A DUI arrest in Wilbarger County can be a stressful and confusing experience. By understanding your rights and taking immediate action, you can protect your driving privileges and navigate the legal process effectively. Contact a qualified DUI attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and explore your options.