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Texas DWI License Suspensions for Minors

Mimi Coffey DWI Lawyer, ALR, License SuspensionIn many ways, Texas DWI is the same for both adults and minors. In other ways, a Texas DWI license suspensions for minors can be more favorable.

DWI vs. DUI: What is the Difference?

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that a DUI and a DWI are not the same. A DUI occurs when a minor has any detectable amount of alcohol in their system while driving, but might not be fully intoxicated. A DUI is a Class C Misdemeanor (same level as a traffic ticket). As an illustration, a DUI might occur when a parent lets a minor have a sip of a drink before driving. The minor might only have a very low BAC, but still have enough to show on a breath test.

Meanwhile, a DWI is the real deal, even when a minor drives. Police can arrest a minor for full-blown DWI depending on the circumstances. However, the possible suspension changes slightly depending on whether the driver is a minor or an adult.

Texas DWI ALR License Suspensions for Minors

For ALR suspensions, a minor can receive a 60, 120, or 180 day suspension for “consent” cases (breath/blood failure). The first suspension is 60 days, but can raise to 120 or 180 depending on whether the minor has a DUI or DWI conviction on their record. However, for “refusal” cases, the law treats minors and adults the same. That means a 180 day suspension for a 1st time arrest, and 2 years for the 2nd or more within 10 years.

Texas DWI Criminal License Suspensions for Minors

On a conviction, however, there is a “mandatory” 1 year drivers license suspension for minors. As with other “criminal” suspensions, interlock is a requirement if the minor wants an Occupational Drivers License. However, this suspension is not “mandatory” if the minor receives probation. However, that probation must require the minor to have an interlock regardless of whether the minor gets an Occupational Drivers License. For probation for a minor, the standard license suspension tends to be 90 days.

More about Mimi Coffey & The Coffey Firm

When people look for a Top DWI Attorney or Best DWI Attorney, they look for experience, certification, and respect in the legal community. Mimi Coffey is a nationally-renowned trial attorney, board-certified in DWI by the NCDD. She has been practicing for over 24 years and is an author of multiple DWI Defense textbooks. She is also a national and state-wide lecturer on the law.

The Coffey Firm handles a wide variety of cases, including Unlawful Carrying Weapon (UCW), Assault (including family violence), and Possession charges. We can also help you try to get a DWI off your record or avoid probation revocation. The Coffey Firm offers fair DWI payment plans and free consultations.

Mimi is also listed on several “top criminal lawyer near me” directory listings such as Wise County DWI Lawyers, Tarrant County DWI LawyerDallas County DWI attorney, Collin County DWI attorneys and Parker County DWI attorneys. Mimi is a caring DWI Lawyer in Dallas – Fort Worth. She is also involved in the Texas Tech School of Law foundation and enjoys using the skills she has developed to give back to the community.