What are the penalties in Texas for a first time DWI conviction?

The crime of driving while intoxicated, known as a DWI, is taken very seriously by most states and the Texas DUI laws are no exception.  If you are convicted of a DWI as a first time offense, you will be facing a number of different penalties. 

• A first time DWI in Texas is usually not a felony, but is instead a Class B misdemeanor. However, it still carries with it a number of very serious potential penalties.
• The prison time for a first time DWI in Texas is a minimum of 72 hours, with a minimum of 6 days if there is an open container of alcohol present in the vehicle.  
• The fines for a first time DWI are set at a maximum of $2,000; however, Texas also imposes a surcharge of $1,000 per year on top of regular fines for a maximum of three years following the conviction.  This surcharge can be doubled if the BAC was over 0.16, or twice the legal limit.  
• You must also complete a 12 day driver’s education program, as well as serve a minimum of 24 hours up to a maximum of 100 hours of community service as a result of your DWI conviction.

If you are arrested for a DWI in Texas, it is important you consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to find out what your options are.