ALR Hearings in Texas DWI Cases How Fast You Must Act to Save Your License

When facing a DWI arrest in Texas, one of the most critical steps you must take is to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. This hearing gives you a chance to contest the automatic suspension of your driver’s license following a DWI charge. However, the key to success in this process lies in how fast you act. You only have a limited time—15 days from the date of your arrest—to request this hearing. If you miss this window, you could face a lengthy suspension of your license without any opportunity for recourse.

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What Is an ALR Hearing?

In Texas, the ALR hearing is a legal process that allows you to challenge the suspension of your driver’s license after a DWI arrest. Unlike a criminal trial, the ALR hearing does not determine whether you are guilty or innocent of the DWI charge itself. Instead, it focuses on whether the state had a legitimate reason to suspend your license based on your arrest and the results of any chemical tests, such as a breath or blood test. The ALR hearing is an essential tool in protecting your driving privileges. If you refuse to submit to a chemical test or if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) exceeds the legal limit of 0.08%, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will begin the process of suspending your license. If you can present a strong case during the ALR hearing, you may be able to avoid or delay the suspension of your driver’s license.

Why You Must Act Quickly to Request the Hearing

After a Texas DWI arrest, time is of the essence. You must request an ALR hearing within 15 days of your arrest, or your license will automatically be suspended. This deadline is strict and unforgiving. Once the 15-day period expires, the Texas DPS will impose a 40-day suspension on your driver’s license, which can severely impact your ability to work, take care of family responsibilities, and live your everyday life.

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Even though you may have other legal options available in a DWI case, such as negotiating a plea deal, you cannot afford to delay requesting the ALR hearing. The suspension of your driver’s license after a DWI arrest can happen quickly, and if you don’t act fast, the administrative penalties will begin automatically.

What Happens During an ALR Hearing?

Once you request the ALR hearing, you will be given a date and time for the hearing, which usually takes place at the Texas Department of State Health Services. At this hearing, your attorney from Deandra Grant Law will present evidence to argue that the suspension of your license should not occur. Some common reasons why your attorney may argue against suspension include:

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The arresting officer lacked probable cause to stop your vehicle. The officer did not properly inform you of your rights before administering a chemical test. There were issues with the administration of the breath or blood test, such as malfunctioning equipment or procedural errors. Unlike criminal court, where you must prove your innocence beyond a reasonable doubt, the ALR hearing requires you to raise doubts about the procedure that led to your arrest and subsequent license suspension. The hearing officer, who is typically a representative of the DPS, will review the evidence and determine whether the suspension should be upheld or lifted.

What Happens If You Miss the ALR Hearing Deadline?

Missing the 15-day deadline for requesting an ALR hearing can have serious consequences. Once the window closes, your Texas driver’s license will automatically be suspended for 40 days. After this period, you may be able to apply for an occupational driver’s license (ODL), which allows you to drive for work or essential purposes, but this is a restricted license. It does not restore full driving privileges, and getting one can be a complicated and time-consuming process. More importantly, by missing the ALR hearing request, you lose your opportunity to challenge the suspension directly. Once your license is suspended without an ALR hearing, it becomes much more difficult to undo the consequences. The hearing is your best chance to avoid or minimize the suspension of your license, so don’t delay.

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How to Request an ALR Hearing

Requesting an ALR hearing is a straightforward process, but it must be done within the 15-day time limit. To request the hearing, you need to submit a form to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). This form is available at any DPS office or online. You will need to provide the following information: Your personal details, including your driver’s license number and arrest information. The date and time of your arrest and the specific details surrounding the incident. A statement requesting the ALR hearing to contest the suspension. Once the request is made, the DPS will schedule a hearing date, and your attorney from Deandra Grant Law can begin preparing the case to defend your driving privileges.

Case Results

Not Guilty

.17 Alcohol Level Was Reported

Case Dismissed

Arrested for DWI

Thrown Breath Score Out

.17 Breath Test

Case Dismissed

Assault Causing Bodily Injury of a Family Member

Case Dismissed

Possession of a Controlled Substance, Penalty Group 3, under 28 grams

Trial – Not Guilty

Continuous Sexual Abuse of A Child

Case Dismissed

Driving While Intoxicated With a Blood Alcohol =0.15

Trial – Not Guilty

Violation of Civil Commitment

Dismissed-Motion to Suppress Evidence Granted

Driving While Intoxicated

Dismissed-No Billed by Grand Jury

Assault Causing Bodily Injury of a Family Member with Prior

View More Results

Case Results

Not Guilty

.17 Alcohol Level Was Reported

Case Dismissed

Arrested for DWI

Thrown Breath Score Out

.17 Breath Test

Case Dismissed

Assault Causing Bodily Injury of a Family Member

Case Dismissed

Possession of a Controlled Substance, Penalty Group 3, under 28 grams

Trial – Not Guilty

Continuous Sexual Abuse of A Child

Case Dismissed

Driving While Intoxicated With a Blood Alcohol =0.15

Trial – Not Guilty

Violation of Civil Commitment

Dismissed-Motion to Suppress Evidence Granted

Driving While Intoxicated

Dismissed-No Billed by Grand Jury

Assault Causing Bodily Injury of a Family Member with Prior

View More Results

Can You Win an ALR Hearing?

Yes, it is possible to win an ALR hearing, and many individuals do. The success of your case will depend on several factors, including the facts of your arrest, the conduct of the officer, and the validity of the chemical tests. Some of the arguments that can lead to a successful ALR hearing include: Lack of probable cause for the stop: If the officer did not have a valid reason to pull you over, the suspension may be overturned. Issues with the administration of the chemical test: If the breathalyzer or blood test was not properly conducted, the results may be invalid. Failure to read you your rights: If the officer failed to inform you of your rights before administering a test, the suspension may be challenged. Even if you don’t win the ALR hearing, it is still a valuable opportunity to gain time before the suspension takes effect. Winning the hearing means your driver’s license will not be suspended, and you will be able to continue driving without restrictions.

Why You Need an Experienced DWI Lawyer for Your ALR Hearing

Given the importance of the ALR hearing and the complexity of DWI defense, it’s essential to have an experienced DWI attorney representing you. A skilled attorney from Deandra Grant Law can: Ensure that the ALR hearing request is made on time. Review the details of your case and identify weaknesses in the officer’s procedure. Present strong arguments and evidence in your defense during the hearing. Navigating the ALR hearing process without legal representation can be risky. At Deandra Grant Law, we have a proven track record of successfully defending clients in DWI cases and ALR hearings. Our attorneys can guide you through every step of the process and help protect your rights. Acting quickly to request an ALR hearing after a Texas DWI arrest is critical to saving your driver’s license. With only 15 days to act, time is of the essence. Missing this deadline could result in automatic suspension, which will be difficult to reverse. If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Texas, don’t wait—contact Deandra Grant Law today to ensure your ALR hearing request is submitted on time and to give yourself the best chance of keeping your license. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult an attorney about your specific situation.

To learn more about this subject click here: Top 10 Consequences of a Texas DWI Conviction