What Happens at a Texas ALR Hearing After a DWI Arrest?

 Posted on February 18, 2026 in DWI / DUI

After a DWI arrest in Texas, you may face an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing that determines whether your driver’s license will be suspended. This can feel stressful, especially if you depend on driving for work, family, and daily responsibilities. The process also moves quickly. Under Texas law, you have only 15 days from the date you receive notice to request an ALR hearing, or your license suspension can begin automatically.

This hearing is separate from your criminal case and focuses only on your driving privileges. As of 2026, Texas continues to use the ALR process to review license suspensions after DWI arrests. Our San Antonio DWI defense lawyer helps drivers understand this process and take steps to protect their ability to drive.

What Is an ALR Hearing in Texas?

An ALR hearing is a civil proceeding handled by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Its purpose is to decide whether your license should be suspended.

This hearing does not determine whether you are guilty of DWI. Instead, it focuses on whether the officer followed the law and whether there was a valid reason for the suspension.

This means your criminal case and your license suspension are handled separately.

What Does the Hearing Officer Review at an ALR Hearing?

The hearing officer reviews whether the legal requirements for suspension have been met. This includes looking at what happened during the stop and arrest.

The hearing officer will consider:

• Whether the officer had a valid reason to stop your vehicle
• Whether there was probable cause to arrest you
• Whether you refused or failed a breath or blood test
• Whether proper procedures were followed

If legal requirements were not met, your license suspension may not be upheld.

What Happens During the ALR Hearing Process in Texas?

The hearing is usually conducted by phone or video and is overseen by an administrative law judge. During the hearing, the arresting officer may also testify about what happened.

You or your attorney have the right to question the officer and challenge the evidence. This allows you to examine whether your rights were upheld or violated and whether the procedures were handled correctly. After reviewing the evidence, the hearing officer will make a decision.

Can You Keep Your License After an ALR Hearing?

It is possible to keep your license if the hearing officer finds that the legal requirements for suspension were not satisfied.

If the suspension is upheld, you may still have options. Under Texas Transportation Code § 521.242, you may qualify for an occupational driver’s license. This allows limited driving for essential needs such as work, school, and medical appointments. This option can help you continue meeting your daily obligations.

How Can the ALR Hearing Help Your Overall Defense?

The ALR hearing can provide valuable information about your case. Your attorney can question the officer and review the evidence early in the process. This can help identify weaknesses or issues that may be important in your criminal defense. Understanding the evidence early can help you make informed decisions about your case.

Why Is It Important To Take Action Quickly After a DWI Arrest?

Taking action early helps protect your driving privileges and your legal rights. The ALR hearing is one of the first opportunities to challenge what happened. Early legal representation can help ensure deadlines are met and your case is handled properly.

Contact Our San Antonio, TX DWI Defense Attorney Today

Facing a possible license suspension can be overwhelming, especially when you rely on driving for your job and daily life. At Law Offices of Sam H. Lock, we understand how stressful this situation can be and work closely with clients to guide them through the ALR process.

If you are facing an ALR hearing after a DWI arrest, contact our San Antonio DWI defense lawyer by calling 210-226-0965 to discuss your options.