Your license after a DWI arrest in Texas

This is the case that moves first. It runs at Texas Department of Public Safety, not at the court, and it is decided on a different question from whether you are guilty of anything.

calendar days to
request a hearing

Counted from the date you were served notice. Those are not always the same day.

The suspension takes effect and the right to contest it is lost. A timely request holds the suspension until the hearing is decided.

Tex. Transp. Code 524.031

The hearing request is the step with a deadline, and it is decided at Texas Department of Public Safety rather than in your criminal case. A lawyer can file it for you.

DWI lawyers in Texas

What to do this week

  1. 01

    Find the notice you were given

    It is usually the document that starts this clock, and it often doubles as a temporary permit.

  2. 02

    Work out the date

    Count 15 calendar days from the date you were served notice. Put a reminder several days before it falls, not on the day.

  3. 03

    Request the hearing

    It goes to Texas Department of Public Safety, by a written request, including by fax, received at the department headquarters in Austin. Missing it ends the matter without anyone reviewing it.

Last reviewed October 14, 2026

Sources

Tex. Transp. Code 524.031

This page is general information, not legal advice. Statutes change. Confirm anything you rely on with a licensed Texas attorney.