The True Cost of a DWI in Texas

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A DWI Can Cost More Than $20,000, And That’s Just the Beginning

Most people focus on fines. But the real cost of a DWI in Texas includes court expenses, supervision fees, insurance increases, lost income, and long-term financial consequences.

A single conviction can easily exceed $20,000+ in direct and indirect costs.

Immediate Costs After an Arrest

Towing & Impound Fees

  • Towing: $20–$450

  • Storage: $10–$25 per day

Bail Bond

  • First offense: often around $1,000
  • Serious charges (e.g., intoxication manslaughter): $10,000+
  • Bail bond companies typically require 10% down

Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Hearing

You have 15 days to request this hearing.

  • Process server fees: ~$200+
  • Officer witness fees: up to $100 per officer


Failing to act can mean automatic license suspension.

Court & Legal Costs

Attorney Fees

DWI defense fees typically range from $5,000–$20,000, depending on severity and whether the case goes to trial.

While this may seem significant, it is often far less than the long-term cost of a conviction.

Court Costs

If convicted, court appearance costs typically range from $200–$1,500.

Fines (Set by Texas Law)

  • First offense: up to $5,000
  • Second offense: up to $8,500
  • Felony DWI: up to $10,000 or more


Fines increase if:

  • BAC is over .15
  • A child under 15 was in the vehicle
  • There was an accident causing injury or damage
  • You hold a CDL

Supervision & Monitoring Costs

Probation Fees

  • $60–$140 per month
  • Minimum six months (often longer)

Drug & Alcohol Testing

  • Approximately $50 per test
  • Can be weekly or random

Ignition Interlock Device

  • Installation: ~$150
  • Monthly monitoring: $70–$100

SCRAM Ankle Monitor

$350–$550 per month

DWI Education Programs

  • 12-hour course: ~$70

  • 32-hour intervention course: $160+

These conditions may apply pre-trial or post-conviction.

Insurance & License Costs

SR-22 Insurance Requirement

Required for at least two years.

  • Filing fee: $15–$25
  • Insurance premiums often increase by 80% or more


Many drivers see increases of $1,000+ per year.

Increased Liability Coverage Requirements

  • $30,000 bodily injury (one person)
  • $60,000 bodily injury (multiple persons)
  • $25,000 property damage


This can add $2,000+ annually to insurance costs.

License Reinstatement Fee

  • $125 payable to Texas DPS

The Costs You Can’t Put a Price On

Beyond money, a DWI conviction can impact many aspects of your life.

Time spent in court, classes, testing facilities, and probation appointments adds up quickly.

Employment opportunities

Professional licenses

Child custody disputes

Security clearances

Reputation in your community

The Cost of Hiring the Right Lawyer vs. The Cost of a Conviction

When you look at the full financial picture, strong legal defense is often the most cost-effective decision you can make.

A DWI arrest does not automatically mean a conviction. Early intervention can protect your license, challenge

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