DFW Penalties and Defenses
Driving with a suspended license in Texas can lead to serious legal consequences, including jail time, fines, and an extended suspension period. Whether your license has been suspended due to a DWI, unpaid tickets, or excessive violations, continuing to drive is a criminal offense, not just a traffic infraction.
In the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, enforcement is strict, and convictions can have long-term consequences. That's why consulting a knowledgeable DFW traffic lawyer is essential.
What Does It Mean To Have a Suspended License in Texas?
A suspended license in Texas means your driving privileges have been temporarily revoked by the Department of Public Safety (DPS). Common reasons include DWI convictions, driving without insurance, excessive traffic violations, unpaid tickets, or failure to appear in court.
A suspension is typically time-limited, and driving during this period is a criminal offense. The DPS usually notifies you by mail, but many drivers only learn of a suspension during a traffic stop.
Penalties for Driving With a Suspended License in Texas
Driving with a suspended license in Texas can result in severe legal consequences. Depending on the circumstances, penalties can include:
For a first-time offense (a Class C misdemeanor):
- Fines of up to $500
- Court costs and administrative fees
- The suspension of your license for anywhere from 30 to 180 days
For repeat offenses or driving without insurance (a Class B misdemeanor):
- Up to 180 days in jail
- Fines of up to $2,000
- Mandatory court appearances
How DFW Law Enforcement Handles Suspended License Violations
In the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area, law enforcement regularly checks license status during:
- Traffic stops
- Accident investigations
- Roadside checkpoints
If you're caught while driving with a suspended license in Texas, you may face:
- Immediate arrest
- Vehicle impoundment
- A mandatory court date
Defense Strategies for Driving With a Suspended License
Facing a suspended license charge in Texas doesn't guarantee a conviction. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can evaluate your case, challenge the suspension, and negotiate with prosecutors. In certain situations, the charges may be downgraded to a less serious offense—or even dismissed—helping you avoid jail time and further license issues.
Common legal defenses include:
- Lack of Notice – You may have this defense if you were never properly informed of the suspension. You are supposed to receive written notice of a suspension, and there’s a presumption that the notice was mailed. That presumption can be challenged, though doing so is difficult.
- Invalid Suspension – This defense arises when a suspension is issued in error or not properly processed, often as a case of mistaken identity.
- Necessity – You may have this defense if you were driving with a suspended license due to a legitimate emergency. For example, you needed to take someone to the hospital and had no other means to do so.
Read Also: Texas Criminal Law Updates for 2025
Let Bailey & Galyen Help You Fight Charges of Driving With a Suspended License Charge
At the law offices of Bailey & Galyen, we have successfully defended Texans facing charges of operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license for decades. Our experienced DFW traffic lawyers understand the complexities of Texas traffic laws and will work tirelessly to protect your record, your license, and your freedom. For a free initial consultation with a proven traffic defense attorney in the DFW area, please contact us by email or call one of our conveniently located offices. Our phones are answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week.