A first DWI in Texas is generally classified as a Class B misdemeanor (Class A if BAC 0.15+).
Jail: 72 hours – 180 days; mandatory min 72 hours (6 days if open container in vehicle)
Fine: $0–$2,000 (criminal fine up to $2,000, PLUS mandatory state 'superfine' of $3,000 ($6,000 if BAC 0.15+) under Transp. Code § 709.001 — the 2019 replacement for the repealed annual surcharge program)
License suspension: 90 days – 1 year; hardship: occupational/essential-need license available, IID may be required
Ignition interlock: Not required at this level — Required if BAC 0.15+ as bond condition and for deferred adjudication.
Alternative disposition: Deferred adjudication available for first-time DWI since Sept 2019 (BAC under 0.15) — requires ignition interlock during deferral; successful completion avoids conviction but still counts as a prior for future enhancement.
Older sources mention annual DPS surcharges — that program (Driver Responsibility Program) was repealed in 2019 and replaced by the one-time superfines above.
Lookback period: lifetime. No washout period for enhancement — prior DWI convictions count regardless of age (10-year limitation removed in 2005).
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