Last Updated on June 26, 2025 by Beltz Law Group
Removing OMNI Hold On Driver License
Texas Driver’s License Renewal Hold: Understanding the OMNI System and How to Clear It
Having a hold on your driver’s license can be a frustrating experience, especially when it prevents you from renewing your driving privileges. In Texas, a common reason for such a hold is outstanding traffic tickets, managed through a system known as OMNI. Understanding how this system works and the steps required to clear a hold is crucial to avoid further complications, including license suspension.
If you’re facing a driver’s license hold due to unpaid traffic tickets, this article will walk you through the OMNI system and the necessary actions to resolve the issue. Should you require personalized legal advice after reading, our experienced traffic ticket lawyers are available to discuss your specific situation.
What is the OMNI System in Texas?
The OMNI system (OmniBase Services of Texas) is a statewide program designed to ensure individuals resolve their outstanding traffic citations. Here’s how it generally works:
- Reporting Outstanding Citations: When a person fails to appear in court for a traffic violation or fails to pay a fine as ordered, the court is required to report these outstanding citations to the OMNI database.
- DPS Hold: Once a citation is reported to OMNI, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) places a “hold” on that individual’s ability to renew their driver’s license. This hold prevents any license renewal until the underlying issues are resolved.
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How to Remove an OMNI Hold on Your Driver’s License
To clear an OMNI hold and regain your ability to renew your driver’s license, two primary steps must be taken:
- Clear Any Outstanding Warrants: If a warrant for your arrest has been issued due to your failure to appear, this warrant must be addressed first. The most effective way to do this without a physical arrest is for a lawyer to post an appearance bond on your behalf. This bond acts as a promise that you will appear in court to resolve the original citation.
- Pay the OMNI Fee: In addition to resolving the outstanding citation, an OMNI fee must be paid to the court that reported the hold. This fee is typically $30.00 for each offense reported to the OMNI database.
The Legal Basis for OMNI Holds
The requirement for these steps is rooted in Texas law, specifically Texas Transportation Code Section 706.005, which outlines the process for courts to notify the DPS and for holds to be lifted:
Sec. 706.005. CLEARANCE NOTICE TO DEPARTMENT.
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(a) A political subdivision (e.g., a city or county) must immediately notify the Department of Public Safety that there is no longer a reason to deny the renewal of a person’s driver’s license based on their previous failure to appear or failure to pay fines and costs. This notification occurs upon the payment of a fee as outlined in Section 706.006 and when one of the following conditions is met:
- The case for which the warrant was issued or judgment arose is appealed.
- The charge for which the warrant was issued or judgment arose is dismissed (excluding dismissals with prejudice by a prosecutor due to lack of evidence).
- A bond or other security is posted to reinstate the charge for which the warrant was issued.
- The outstanding fine and cost owed on a court judgment are paid or discharged.
- Other suitable arrangements to pay the fine and cost are made at the court’s discretion.
(b) The Department of Public Safety cannot continue to deny the renewal of a person’s driver’s license under this chapter once they receive notice that:
- One of the conditions in Subsection (a) has been met.
- The person was acquitted of the charge for which they failed to appear.
- The charge for which the person failed to appear was dismissed with prejudice by the prosecuting attorney due to lack of evidence.
- The political subdivision informs the department that the failure to appear report or court order to pay a fine or cost was sent in error or has been destroyed according to their records retention policy.
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Why Hire a Lawyer to Clear Your License Hold?
While the process might seem straightforward, navigating the legal system to clear a driver’s license hold can be complex. The most effective way to remove the hold without leading to a conviction on your driving record is to follow the proper legal procedures. This often requires the expertise of an experienced traffic ticket attorney.
A lawyer can:
- Post an appearance bond: This prevents your arrest and allows you to address the underlying citation in court.
- Negotiate with the court: An attorney can work to get your case dismissed, reduced, or set up a payment plan that avoids a conviction on your record.
- Ensure proper OMNI fee payment: They can guide you through the correct payment process to ensure the hold is officially lifted.
- Prevent further record damage: Without proper legal guidance, you risk a conviction that could lead to increased insurance rates, surcharges, or even further license suspensions.
If you are in the North Texas area and dealing with a driver’s license hold, our Richardson traffic ticket lawyers can assist you. Contact our office today at 214-321-4105 to discuss your options and work towards clearing your license hold effectively.
