Last Updated on June 7, 2025 by Beltz Law Group
Dallas Ticket Defense Lawyer
“DWLI” in Dallas County: Understanding the Charge & Protecting Your Driving Record
What It Is and How to Defend Against It 214-321-4105
Driving While License Invalid (DWLI) is a serious traffic-related charge in Texas. The legal landscape surrounding DWLI offenses is complex, governed by a multitude of statutes and potential enhancements. This article provides an overview of DWLI in Dallas County and highlights the critical importance of preventing a conviction from appearing on your permanent record.
What is DWLI?
DWLI stands for Driving While License Invalid. It’s the term used in Section 521.457 of the Texas Transportation Code to describe the offense of operating a motor vehicle while your driver’s license is suspended, revoked, or otherwise invalid. The specific charges and penalties can vary significantly depending on the circumstances surrounding the offense.
Potential Charges & Penalties for DWLI in Dallas County:
Here’s a breakdown of the potential charges and penalties you might face if stopped for DWLI in Dallas County:
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Traffic Ticket Charge (Class C Misdemeanor):
- This is the most common initial charge for DWLI. It is punishable by a fine only.
- However, even a traffic ticket conviction for DWLI carries serious consequences:
- Annual Surcharge: You will be assessed an annual surcharge payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in the amount of $250.00 per year for three years, totaling $750.00.
- Automatic License Suspension: A DWLI conviction triggers an additional automatic suspension of your driving privileges for a full year. This is on top of any existing suspension that caused your license to be invalid in the first place.
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Class “B” Misdemeanor Charge (Second Offense):
- If you have a prior conviction for DWLI that was originally filed as a traffic ticket, a new DWLI charge can be enhanced to a Class “B” Misdemeanor.
- Class “B” Misdemeanor penalties are significantly harsher, including:
- Up to 6 months in county jail.
- A fine of up to $2,000.00.
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Class “B” Misdemeanor Charge (No Insurance):
- If you were caught driving on a suspended license without liability insurance, you can be charged with a Class “B” Misdemeanor, even for a first offense. This reflects the increased risk associated with driving uninsured.
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Class “A” Misdemeanor (Accident Causing Injury):
- If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident while driving with an invalid license, and that accident causes injury to another person, the charge can be enhanced to a Class “A” Misdemeanor.
- Class “A” Misdemeanors carry the most severe penalties, including:
- Up to a year in county jail.
Important Considerations:
- Old Convictions Can Be Used Against You: Prosecutors in Texas are allowed to use prior DWLI convictions dating back to 1987 to enhance current charges.
- No Slack in the Law: Texas law is strict when it comes to driving while your license is invalid. There is little room for leniency.
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Protecting Your Driving Record is Crucial
A DWLI conviction, even for a seemingly minor traffic ticket, can have devastating consequences, including:
- Significant financial penalties (surcharges, fines).
- Extended periods of driver’s license suspension.
- Potential jail time (for enhanced charges).
- A permanent criminal record (for misdemeanor convictions).
- Increased insurance rates.
How the Beltz Law Group Can Help
If you have been charged with Driving While License Invalid in Dallas County, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights and your driving privileges. The Beltz Law Group understands the complexities of DWLI cases and will fight to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
We can:
- Thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your charge.
- Challenge the validity of the license suspension.
- Negotiate with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or dismissal.
- Assist in obtaining an Occupational Driver License (ODL) if necessary.
- Represent you in court and defend your rights.
Don’t let a DWLI charge derail your life. If you need the assistance of a legal professional in Dallas County, we urge you to contact us today.
