A DWI Conviction Remains On Your Record
Last updated on July 6, 2026
We’ve discussed how strict Texas is with its DWI laws. If you are convicted, know that this is most likely going to be on your record forever. There are very limited opportunities to have a DWI sealed, which we discuss below. If you plead guilty, you are going to have to deal with the consequences for long after your case has finished. Do not make the mistake of simply pleading guilty just to bring an end to the case. While it may be over in the legal sense, it is not over in the lifetime sense. You need an experienced Austin DWI attorney to work with you to understand the full implications of the charges.
At Hildreth & Rueda, we know that this is a lot to manage. With our help, you can understand the consequences of any subsequent DWIs. Contact us by phone at 512-415-7648 or contact us online today.
No Lookback/Washout Period
Some states may have laws that have DWI convictions “reset” after a certain period of time. That is, if you had your first DWI 20 years ago, and your second arrest just happened, the first may not be counted against you if it happened outside of the specific time limits in the state laws. This is sometimes called a “Lookback Period or Washout Provision.” Texas does not have a lookback period or washout provision in its laws. In most cases, if you are convicted of DWI in Texas, it will count against you in all future DWI arrests, regardless of how long ago the previous conviction occurred.
Certain exceptions may apply to previous convictions. In 2017, the state passed the Texas Second Chance DWI Law. This law allows individuals an opportunity to seal prior DWI convictions on their records, so long as they meet very specific requirements, which include:
- Fulfilling the court’s requirements in the original DWI conviction
- The motorist’s BAC in the DWI must be under .15 percent
- The DWI cannot have resulted in an accident that involved other individuals
- A waiting period that will vary upon the offense – two years for those convicted of a DWI misdemeanor, five years for those with felony DWI convictions
- No other disqualifying criminal convictions during that waiting period, which include subsequent DWI convictions
These are extremely complex procedures and require the assistance of an experienced DWI attorney. Without an attorney, you may have challenges gathering the necessary information required to get positive results in your case. Speak to our Austin drunk driving lawyers today to understand if you may apply to have your previous DWI sealed.
Other State DWI Convictions
Austin is home to many people who have moved from other places across the United States. It’s important to note that if you’ve had a DWI conviction in any other state, that prior conviction may be used against you if you’re facing DWI charges in Texas. That can mean enhanced penalties may apply if you are convicted of the offense in Texas. Our Austin DWI lawyers can help you determine your defense options in these situations.
Nonresidents Charged With DWI In Texas
People also head to Austin for a number of high-profile events throughout the year. Those here on vacation or business can find themselves arrested for DWI, and they need to understand how those charges impact them in Texas and their home state. Many states will consider a conviction in another state in subsequent charges.
Coming back to Texas may be challenging if you live far away, but you have to deal with the charges you are facing. Call our Austin DWI attorneys’ office today to learn how we can help. In some cases, we can appear on your behalf and keep you from having to be here in person while your case is in progress.
Your Consultation With Us Is Free
Whether you are from Austin or from another state, we can represent you. To arrange your free consultation, just call 512-415-7648 or complete our brief online contact form today.
*This page has been reviewed by attorney Florencia Rueda, who has over 15 years of experience in criminal defense cases in Travis County and nearby communities.