Getting a DWI in Texas is expensive. And I don’t just mean the fine you pay in court – I’m talking about the avalanche of costs that hit you from every direction. If you’re facing a DWI charge, you might already be feeling the weight of it. The legal fees, the surprise expenses, the way it messes with your job and insurance – it all adds up.
Let’s break down exactly how much a DWI can cost you in Texas, beyond just the ticket. I promise it’s more than you think.
The Initial Financial Punch: Fines, Bail, and Towing
When you get arrested for DWI, the money starts draining from your wallet immediately.
- Fines – Texas DWI fines vary based on how many times you’ve been caught. A first-time offense can cost you up to $2,000 in fines alone. A second-time offense? Up to $4,000. If it’s your third time, you’re looking at a whopping $10,000 fine. And this doesn’t even cover everything else.
- Bail Money – Getting out of jail isn’t free. Bail can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on your history and the judge’s mood that day.
- Towing & Impound Fees – Your car doesn’t get to drive itself home when you’re arrested. It’s towed and impounded, costing you anywhere from $100 to $300 to get it back.
The Legal Costs: Lawyers Aren’t Cheap
If you’re thinking about fighting your DWI charge (and you probably should), you’ll need a good attorney. But good legal representation isn’t cheap.
- Attorney Fees – A skilled DWI lawyer in Texas can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the complexity of your case. If you go to trial, it’ll cost even more.
- Court Fees – Even if you’re lucky enough to avoid the maximum fine, you’ll still owe the court. Court costs usually start at around $500 and can climb much higher.
- Probation Fees – If the court gives you probation instead of jail time, you’ll pay for that too. Probation fees range from $60 to $100 per month, and probation can last up to two years.
- DWI Education Programs – Texas courts often require you to complete an alcohol education course. That’s another $100 to $200 out of your pocket.
The Never-Ending License & Insurance Nightmare
Once you get a DWI, say goodbye to your normal insurance rates and driving privileges.
- License Suspension – Your license will likely be suspended for at least 90 days (and much longer if it’s not your first offense). Driving without a license is a whole new legal mess, so you’ll need to get it reinstated.
- License Reinstatement Fees – To get your license back, you’ll have to pay a reinstatement fee of $125. Small compared to everything else, but still annoying.
- SR-22 Insurance Requirement – After a DWI, Texas requires you to get an SR-22 insurance policy, which basically tells the state you’re a “high-risk” driver. This policy can triple your insurance rates.
- Skyrocketing Car Insurance Rates – Expect to pay an extra $1,000 to $2,000 per year for car insurance for the next three to five years after a DWI.
Hidden Costs: The Financial Hits No One Talks About
It’s not just the direct costs that hurt it’s the unexpected ones that can really throw you off.
- Lost Wages – If you have to take time off work for court dates, jail time, or community service, that’s money you’re missing out on.
- Job Loss – If your job requires a clean driving record or you have a professional license, a DWI can get you fired. Finding a new job with a DWI on your record isn’t always easy.
- Transportation Costs – If your license is suspended, you’ll be relying on Uber, taxis, or public transport, which adds up quickly.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID) – If you’re required to install one of these in your car, it costs about $70 to $150 for installation and $60 to $90 per month to maintain.
So, What’s the Total Damage?
When you add everything up, a first-time DWI conviction in Texas can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000 over time. If you’re a repeat offender, the number gets even scarier.
Can You Avoid Paying This Much?
Here’s the truth: the only way to completely avoid these costs is to not drink and drive. But if you’re already facing a DWI charge, the best thing you can do is hire a skilled criminal defense lawyer. A good lawyer can help lower fines, negotiate probation terms, and sometimes even get your case dismissed.
Need Help? Talk to a DWI Defense Attorney Today
If you’re dealing with a DWI charge, you don’t have to figure this out alone. At DFW Legal, we specialize in helping people just like you fight DWI charges and reduce the impact on their lives.
Let’s talk. Call us today for a free consultation and find out how we can help protect your future.