DWI Class Requirements

A first-time driving while intoxicated (DWI) offense is classified as a class B misdemeanor. However, a DWI conviction has more added conditions and penalties than a standard misdemeanor. If you’re granted probation, the court may order you to attend an educational program specially designed for people convicted of a DWI.

Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 42A.403 states you’re required to complete your DWI classes within 180 days of your conviction. The court can choose a program for you or you can find a third-party who offers DWI educational courses. If you decide to use a third-party program, it must be approved by the appropriate agencies which are:

  • The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)
  • The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
  • The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
  • The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ)

If you or someone you know has been charged with a DWI, it’s imperative you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Attorney for DWI Class Requirements in Houston, Texas

A DWI conviction isn’t just overwhelming, but it’s also time consuming. You may be court-ordered to attend an educational program for intoxicated offenders. It’s also commonly referred to as DWI classes. If you or someone you know was arrested for a driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it’s crucial you gain legal representation.

Find that representation today Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc.. Our attorneys are experienced in DWI defense. We have assisted numerous clients navigate DWI school and other added sentencing conditions. Contact us today at (713) 224-5529 to schedule a consultation today. Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. accepts clients throughout the greater Harris County area including Pasadena, Tomball, Bellaire and Houston.

Overview of DWI Classes in Texas


Purpose of DWI Classes in Texas

The state of Texas is struggling with an ongoing DWI crisis. In 2016, Texas had the highest number of alcohol-impaired driving fatalities in the nation. A title they sadly claimed in 2015 as well. Texas legislation has attempted to deter drunk driving with stringent DWI laws. These laws have added sentencing conditions which include DWI classes.

The purpose of DWI classes is to stop the vicious cycle of drunk driving. In the past, DWI offenders simply carried out their sentences without any rehabilitation. This did not seem to be effective, so Texas has imposed an educational program requirement for DWI offenders. The classes focus on the destructive nature of DWI and the dangers of alcohol or substance abuse.

DWI classes also discourage people from committing multiple DWI offenses. The court requires you to pay for the entirety of the class. Typically, a DWI class can range from $90 to $125 dollars. If you have multiple DWI offenses, the classes may be even more expensive. Your license will also be revoked until you have successfully completed the classes.

Listed below are some topics covered in DWI classes.

  • The consequences of a DWI;
  • Substance and alcohol abuse;
  • Recovering from chemical dependency;
  • How drugs and alcohol affect your driving;
  • The effects drugs and alcohol have on the body; and
  • How to make better decisions while drinking alcoholic beverages

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Types of DWI Classes in Texas

Texas divides DWI classes by criminal history. If this is your first DWI offense, then your class will be a total of 12 hours. Classes are usually conducted over three or four days or you can complete it online. DWI classes for a first-time offender usually range from $90 to $125, which you are required to pay.

If you have multiple DWI convictions, you’ll need to take a more extensive DWI class. A multiple DWI offender class will take 32-hours and can be conducted over seven weeks. It’s also pricier than a first-time DWI class at approximately $300.

Minors who are charged as juveniles with a DWI may also be required to take an educational DWI program. These classes are around 6 hours long and can be completed in two days. It’s the least costly of the DWI courses at $60.


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What to Bring to Your DWI Classes in Texas

If you’re attending a DWI class at a facility, you’ll be required to bring a few items. All of these items are needed to process your participation in DWI class. If you’re completing your DWI class online, then you’ll be required to submit these documents to the appropriate location.

The items you’ll need to attend DWI class include:

  • Driver’s license or the number itself;
  • Paperwork of your court-order to DWI class
  • Social security number;
  • Case number

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What Happens if You Don’t Go to DWI Classes in Texas?

DWI classes are not a choice. If you were court-ordered to attend DWI courses, then you’re legally required to attend classes. In addition, you must complete this program within 180 days of your court-order. Failure to attend class or complete the program on time will result in administrative penalties.

If you don’t complete DWI classes in time, then DPS will either:

  • Revoke your driver’s license; or
  • Prohibit you from obtaining a license

Your license will only be reinstated once you’ve completed DWI school. Additionally, you’ll be barred from obtaining an occupational license.


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Additional Resources

Find a DWI Class – Visit the official website of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Access their search engine to find a DWI course near you. You can search for classes by zip-code, county, city, or the program provider.

Texas DWI Class Procedures – Visit the official website for the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure to learn more about educational programs for drunk drivers. Access the statues to learn more about their requirements, how to get classes waivered and consequences for not attending class.


Lawyer for DUI Courses in Harris County, Texas

If you or someone you know has been charged with a DWI, it’s imperative you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. The penalties for drunk driving are serious and can lead to jail time. Not only this, but you may be court-ordered to attend DWI courses.

Contact an attorney at Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. for quality legal representation. The attorneys at Tyler Flood & Associates, Inc. have years of experience with a passion for criminal defense. We will utilize our skills, resources and knowledge to help you obtain the best possible result for your case.

Call us now at (713) 224-5529 for a free consultation. We accept clients throughout the greater Houston area including West University Place, Pasadena, Bellaire and Uptown.



This article was last updated on March 7th, 2019.

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Driving While Intoxicated (Blood Draw .16)
Client had bond forfeited while case was pending for not being able to attend trial when Judge ordered us to be there due to his teaching job at Texas A&M University. When he finally...read more
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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

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Robert Henderson
Robert Henderson
December 22, 2023.
I want to give a special thanks to Tyler Flood & Associates. Getting charged with a dwi was the worst feeling and situation I've been in, but the professionalism and confidence that Tyler Fllod & Associates showed throughout my case definitely helped me get some sleep at night. Then when they called and let me know that my case was dismissed and all charges dropped was incredible. Once again, thanks to Tyler Flood & Associates.
Zeta Ze
Zeta Ze
December 15, 2023.
Houston DWI/DUI Tyler Flood is the best lawyer to represent you in a DWI/DUI case. Mr. Flood saved my license from being suspended in a non-refusal weekend. In a case, where I feel I did everything wrong and had 0 chance, in my opinion, for a dismissal, my only hope and chance was to hire Mr. Flood and his firm. Having had previous experience with Mr. Flood's firm, I felt that if I had any percentage chance of a dismissal, I had to go with Mr. Flood again. As I am writing this review, I'm still in shock and awe in how Mr. Flood was able to get a dismissal before trial completely started. Mr. Flood knew the law better than the arresting officer and Prosecutors. Even the judge was impressed and paid him a compliment after the dismissal. In my opinion, if you want a fighting chance, hire Mr. Flood and his firm. Mr. Flood genuinely cares about all his clients and does not merely see you as a customer. He and his team are always working on your case. Trust his process. They are absolutely the BEST.
briana Munoz
briana Munoz
December 5, 2023.
Thanks to Tyler Flood I am able to continue my life, him and his partners were amazing in guiding me throughout this hard process. Tyler and his team got me a CASE DISMISSED on my DWI case. His team kept in contact with me on every small detail about my case while being able to thoroughly explain every possibility for me. I also never had to step foot in a courtroom! Him and his team had my back every step of the way and never made me feel like it was not going to be okay. Tyler flood is the BEST DWI/DUI attorney no doubt, please consider letting him take your case if you are ever in need of an amazing lawyer.
A D
A D
October 19, 2023.
When I found myself in a precarious situation and didn’t know where or who to turn to I was recommended to Tyler Flood and Associates. After researching and reading many reviews I decided to hire and retain Flood and Associates services. This was one of the best decisions I made in my life, not only were they there for me in every dim moment and never too busy to answer every question I had whether it was frivolous or not, his expertise was demonstrated to me during my trial. So much so that two other defendants asked for his name and number during my trial. He fought tooth-and-nail for me and he will for you too. I’m only rating him five stars because I can’t rate him any higher. I’ll thank him for the rest of my life.
Dylan
Dylan
October 12, 2023.
Houston DWI/DUI Attorney Tyler Flood is the best in the business! Tyler and his team made the entire process stress free for what is a very stressful situation. From winning the first administrative hearing (to retain my license/avoid a breathalyzer) to getting the dismissal before trial even started. He is truly the best in the business!
Cesar Ricardez
Cesar Ricardez
October 3, 2023.
I hired Tyler Flood the day after my DUI arrest after reading glowing reviews about him and I couldn’t be happier that I did so. He took care of both my cases to keep my driving rights and the misdemeanor DUI charge in court. I never even had to appear in court or do anything, him and his team took care of anything while I carried on with my life and would just get updates whenever they appeared in court on my behalf. At the end, my driver license was never suspended and they got my case dismissed. Lesson learned, I don’t wish anyone to get in my situation but if you do, don’t hesitate to hire Tyler Flood and his team, they are extremely professional and they go for the win. No deal, no probation, got it all dismissed.
M J
M J
September 14, 2023.
Tyler Flood, Houston DWI/DUI attorney is fantastic! He is professional, smart and takes pride in getting the best possible outcome for you. This was my second DWI and I didn't want to take chances. I found him on Google and I too was in disbelief with all the 5.0 star reviews. Upon meeting him I quickly discovered it was all true. A lawyer with his own science lab WTH??????? Long story short he got my case dismissed without going to court. You can not put a price on freedom. The only downside is I only hope to need his services this one time. 😀 Thanks again Mr. Flood God bless.
John Sellers
John Sellers
August 31, 2023.
Houston DUI/DWI attorney Tyler Flood is the guy to go to!! I started my journey with these guys on August 4th of this year, my case was dismissed before the end of the month!! Well worth it!! They are organized and efficient, kept me informed of what was going on and answered all my questions. I have shared with my friends and definitely recommend to anyone.
texasdiamonds
texasdiamonds
August 29, 2023.
Houston DUI/DWI attorney Tyler Flood is an outstanding attorney and person. If you are in need of a lawyer who understands the panic and sheer fear a family feels when this happens in their lives,Tyler Flood is the attorney for you. He has an outstanding educational background, his office includes an on-site, state-of-the-arts laboratory, and he is surrounded with a legal team to provide background and research data for him to be successful in representing you. He is a One-of-Kind, highly accomplished attorney that will promptly respond to you throughout the duration of your case. Seriously, this guy NEVER sleeps! Tyler Flood understands the importance of a person’s reputation and the seriousness of a DUI/DWI charge. If you choose to work with him, he will work with you to be successful! Tyler Flood is AWESOME!
Trey Perrett
Trey Perrett
August 14, 2023.
Words cannot express what a dominating lawyer Tyler Flood and his team are. I ran into some trouble in 2021 and I was just getting my family, career ,and life together. I was completely scared of what the repercussions could be for the rest of my life. I asked civil layers who they recommend and repeatedly Tyler Flood’s name was given to me. At my first appointment, I was overcome with anxiety of what will happen next. Tyler put me at ease immediately. He believed I had a case. They were great on response time and helping me navigate the often confusing legal system. It’s a long process to have a case brought to trial but I knew I had an amazing lawyer and his team in my corner. Finally, I received the call that my case was dismissed, and I was cleared of all charges. I could not be happier with the way he and his colleagues handled my case and brought home the W. I strongly recommend having Tyler Flood in your corner because he delivers.
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