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Texas: SR-22 and DUI license rules
Form: SR-22 Agency: Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Driver License Division · checked Oct 24, 2026
In Texas a DWI conviction can require an SR-22, a certificate your insurer files with DPS to show you carry liability insurance. An insurance card or policy is not accepted in its place.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
Key rules
| SR-22 / FR-44 used? | Yes. A DWI conviction can require you to obtain an SR-22 from an authorized insurance company.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
|---|---|
| How long you must keep it on file | 2 years from the date of the conviction that requires it (or from the date of a judgment). Filing late does not add time to the 2 years.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| Minimum liability limits | $30,000 per person for injuries, up to $60,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage (30/60/25).Source: tdi.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| License suspension, 1st DUI | Administrative License Revocation (ALR) for a failed test: 90 days for a first offense. A DWI conviction can add a court-ordered suspension of up to 2 years.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| License suspension, 1st chemical test refusal | 180 days for a first ALR refusal; 2 years for a second.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| Reinstatement fee | $125 for an ALR suspension; $100 for a Safety Responsibility (SR-22) suspension; $100 for a DWI conviction suspension. Each enforcement type is a separate fee (ALR + SR = $225). Online payments add a $5.75 convenience fee.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| Ignition interlock | A court may order an ignition interlock as a condition of driving after a DWI. Any occupational license issued after an ALR suspension or DWI conviction carries an interlock restriction.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
| Hardship / restricted license | Yes. An Occupational Driver License, granted by court order, lets you drive a non-commercial vehicle for work, essential household duties or school.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026 |
How to reinstate (official steps)
- Check the License Eligibility page to see every requirement and fee on your record.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
- Have your insurer file an SR-22 with DPS if one is required.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
- Pay each reinstatement fee ($125 ALR, $100 SR or DWI suspension), online or by mail.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
- Send any other compliance documents (such as DWI education certificates) by mail, fax or email. Allow 21 business days.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
Notes
- You have 15 days from receiving the ALR notice to request a hearing.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
- If an SR-22 lapses, your license is suspended again and you need a new SR-22 plus a $100 reinstatement fee.Source: dps.texas.gov, checked Oct 24, 2026
Official links
Not legal advice. Not an insurer. This page summarizes Texas’s own published rules for a typical first offense. Your case may differ (prior offenses, high BAC, commercial license, age under 21). Confirm with Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Driver License Division or the court before you act. We don’t sell insurance or quote prices. Spot an error? Email toffee@mail.grokbot.com.