Section 19: Administrative License Revocation (ALR)

November 19, 2020

1. I have not been convicted of a DWI, yet I have an ALR suspension on my record? How is this possible?

The Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Program is a civil administrative process unrelated to criminal court proceedings. The ALR Program applies to individuals who have been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) or Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) and fail or refuse to take a blood or breath test.

2. Why is there an ALR refusal on my driver record when a specimen was taken?

The refusal occurred prior to the arrest. A court order was obtained to extract a specimen.

3. What happens if I receive an acquittal or not guilty verdict when I go to court for the DWI citation?

Once the court sends the verdict to the Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Section, the suspension will be removed from your record along with the corresponding reinstatement fee. If the reinstatement fee has already been paid, it will be refunded.

4. How much is the reinstatement fee for an ALR?

$125.00

5. If I am suspended for an ALR, will I be required to pay a surcharge?

No.  The Driver Responsibility Program has been repealed.  Visit the Driver Responsibility Program (Surcharge) Repeal FAQ's for more information.

6. How long does an ALR stay on a driver record?

For a lifetime.

7. What is a DIC-25?

When you fail or refuse to take a BAC test, you will be arrested. At the time of the arrest, the arresting officer will issue you a DIC-25. The DIC-25 serves as a suspension notice and outlines the steps necessary to request a hearing.

8. What are the suspension periods for an ALR?

For an ALR Failure, the suspension period for the first offense is 90 days while the second offense carries a 1 year suspension. For an ALR Refusal, the first offense carries a 180 day suspension while the second will result in a 2 year suspension.

9. What are the suspension periods for a minor that receives an ALR?

Any detection of alcohol in a minor's system will subject them to an automatic suspension of their driving privileges per Texas Transportation Code 521.342. For a minor, the suspension period for the first offense of any detectable amount of alcohol is 60 days while any subsequent offenses carries either a 120 day or 180 day suspension. For a minor refusal, the first offense carries a 180 day suspension while a second offense will result in a 2 year suspension.

10. Can I apply for a CLP/CDL if I have an ALR on my driving record?

As long as the enforcement action is not active, you can apply for a CLP/CDL license.

11. Can I request a hearing for an ALR suspension?

Yes, if you request the hearing within 15 days of receiving the DIC-25. If the hearing is granted and the finding is negative, the pending suspension will be lifted, any reinstatement fees associated with the suspension will be refunded. However, if the finding is affirmative, the suspension will begin on the 1st day after the judge's ruling. NOTE: An affirmative finding may be appealed.

12. What happens if I do not attend the hearing for my ALR suspension?

Failure to appear for the hearing will result in an affirmative finding and the judgement will be final.

13. 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.