What Is an ALR Reinstatement Fee?

If you were convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas, your driver’s license was likely suspended for several months. You’ll have to take some important steps to get it back, including paying an ALR reinstatement fee. ALR refers to a civil process called the Administrative License Revocation Program. Here’s what to know about it and why you’ll need legal assistance from a Texas lawyer to get your license back. 

Who Needs to Pay the ALR Fee?

If your driver’s license was suspended and you have to pay an ALR fee to get it back, it’s likely because you were convicted of a DWI in Texas. After all, this process specifically focuses on suspending the licenses of drivers caught driving or boating while under the influence. 

In particular, the ALR program can suspend your driver’s license if you refuse to take a blood or breath test to detect alcohol after being pulled over. If you agree to take the test and have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or more, your license will be suspended, as well. 

If you’re driving a commercial vehicle, your driver’s license can be suspended if your BAC is .04% or higher since there’s even less tolerance for driving while intoxicated when you have a CDL. No matter which of these reasons was behind your license suspension, you need a lawyer to guide you through your case. 

How Can You Get Your License Back?

Getting your license back after a DWI requires you to meet certain qualifications depending on your case. You will typically need to let a certain number of months pass before you’re eligible to get it back. During that time, you may need to pay fees, serve jail time, or complete an alcohol education program. 

Once your license suspension period is over and you meet all the requirements for getting your license back, you can pay the ALR reinstatement fee of $125. It’s essential that you meet with a lawyer before you pay this fee, as you might find that there are additional requirements you must meet first. There’s also a chance your lawyer can get the DWI charge reduced or dropped, so do not pay any fees until you get legal counsel.

How Can an Attorney Help You with ALR Reinstatement?

Drivers who get a DWI in Texas are entitled to request an ALR hearing shortly after their arrest. The evidence presented at this hearing will determine whether the license is suspended or not, so you should hire an attorney to help you prepare. 

Your lawyer will be by your side from start to finish, including scheduling a hearing to represent you at it and even appealing your license suspension if necessary. If you are ready to talk to a Texas lawyer who can help you fight a DWI charge and the penalties that come with it, contact our Bedford law firm at (972) 573-4532.