Section 10: Driving While License Invalid (DWLI)

November 18, 2020

1. What is the difference between a Mandatory DWLI and a Departmental DWLI?

A Mandatory DWLI suspension is placed on a record when you are specifically cited for driving while your license is invalid and subsequently convicted of the offense.

A Departmental DWLI suspension occurs when you are convicted of an offense or involved in a crash while your driver license is suspended, revoked, denied or cancelled.

2. Why do I have a departmental suspension for driving while my license was invalid when I did not receive a ticket for that?

If you have been convicted of an offense or involved in a crash while your driver license is suspended, revoked, denied or cancelled, you are subject to a departmental suspension for 90-days. This is mandated by the Texas Transportation Code Texas Transportation Code Section 521.292

3. If the department intends to suspend my license for driving while my license was invalid, am I eligible for a hearing?

You are eligible for a hearing if your request is received within 20 days of the original suspension notice.

A hearing can be requested online or by fax, email or mail.

  • Fax: (512) 424-2501
  • Email: Hearings
  • Mail: Texas Department of Public Safety
            ATTN: ECS
            PO Box 4087
            Austin, TX 78773

4. How long does a departmental DWLI suspension last?

Departmental suspensions for a DWLI will last for 90-days.

5. If my license is suspended for a departmental DWLI will I be required to pay a reinstatement fee? And if so, when will it be due?

Yes. The reinstatement fee must be paid prior to any modification or renewal of your driver license. This includes the application for an occupational or interlock license. Visit the Reinstating a Driver License page, to find ways to pay your reinstatement fee.

6. Am I able to request a hearing for a Mandatory DWLI suspension?

No, a mandatory suspension is not eligible for a departmental hearing. In this case, the court has already rendered the final verdict.

7. Can I get a mandatory DWLI removed from my record?

Only if the conviction was submitted in error. The original court must fax a DPS correction form to the Conviction Reporting Department at (512) 424-5809 requesting that the ticket be removed from your record. The request must include both the citation number and the date of offense. It may take up to 10 business days for the record to be corrected.

8. If I am convicted of driving while my license is invalid, will I be required to carry an SR-22?

Yes. Additionally, the SR-22 must be submitted to the department and maintained for two (2) years from the date of conviction. Visit the Reinstating a Driver License page, to find ways to submit your SR-22.

9. How long do mandatory suspensions last?

A mandatory suspension can last up to two (2) years. However, you may be eligible for an occupational driver license.

10. I still cannot find the answer to my question, what do I do?

If you do not find the answer to your question listed here within our FAQ's, you can always contact our Customer Service Center for assistance.