Bee County License Hearing Guide

Bee DUI License Suspension & ALR Hearing

Losing your driver's license after a DUI arrest in Bee, Texas, can severely disrupt your life. It's crucial to understand the process and act quickly to protect your driving privileges. This guide explains the administrative license revocation (ALR) process, which is entirely separate from the criminal charges you face. While the criminal case focuses on your guilt or innocence regarding the DUI, the ALR hearing determines whether the State can suspend your driver's license. Think of it as two separate battles you must fight.

CRITICAL DEADLINE: Request a Hearing Within 15 Days

After a DUI arrest in Bee, the clock is ticking. You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing. This is a hard deadline. Missing it will result in an automatic suspension of your driver's license.

Where to Request: You must request the hearing from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). This is the state agency responsible for driver's licenses.

How to Request: You have a few options for requesting your ALR hearing:

• Online: The fastest and most reliable method is to request the hearing online through the Texas DPS website. Look for the section on "ALR Hearing Request" or "Driver License Suspension."
• Mail: You can send a written request to the DPS office. It is highly recommended to send it certified mail with return receipt requested to prove that it was delivered on time. Find the correct address on the DPS website.
• Phone: Contact the DPS directly by phone and inquire about the process. While possible, it is preferable to request it in writing to have proof of your request.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline: If you fail to request a hearing within the 15-day window, your driver's license will automatically be suspended. There are very few exceptions to this rule, so acting quickly is paramount. Don't delay – request your hearing today!

Automatic License Suspension

Even if you request an ALR hearing, your license may still be suspended. The circumstances of your arrest determine the length and conditions of the suspension.

If You Took the Breath/Blood Test and Failed

If you submitted to a breath or blood test and your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) was 0.08 or higher, the Texas DPS will move to suspend your license.

• BAC over 0.08: If your BAC was over the legal limit of 0.08, your license suspension will likely be for 90 days for a first offense.

• Temporary Permit: The temporary driving permit issued at the time of your arrest is usually valid until the date of your scheduled ALR hearing or until the suspension officially begins if you waived the hearing or the hearing upheld the suspension.

If You Refused Testing

Refusing to take a breath or blood test carries a much harsher penalty in Texas.

• Refusal Penalty: If you refused to provide a breath or blood sample, your license will be suspended for 180 days for a first offense. This is significantly longer than the suspension for failing the test.

• Implied Consent Law in Texas: Texas, like most states, operates under an implied consent law. This means that by driving on Texas roads, you have implicitly agreed to submit to a breath or blood test if lawfully requested by a law enforcement officer. Refusal to do so carries its own penalties, regardless of your actual BAC.

The ALR/Administrative Hearing

The ALR hearing is your chance to fight the suspension of your driver's license. Understanding what it is and how to prepare is vital.

What It Is

• Separate from Criminal Court: It is crucial to remember that the ALR hearing is entirely separate from your criminal DUI case. The outcome of one does not automatically determine the outcome of the other.

• Decides if License Suspension Is Warranted: The purpose of the ALR hearing is to determine whether the DPS has sufficient evidence to suspend your license. The DPS must prove that there was probable cause for the initial stop, that you were lawfully arrested, and that your BAC was over the legal limit (or that you refused testing).

• Lower Burden of Proof Than Criminal Trial: The burden of proof in an ALR hearing is lower than in a criminal trial. The DPS only needs to show "preponderance of the evidence," meaning it is more likely than not that the suspension is justified.

How to Prepare

Preparing effectively for your ALR hearing is essential for a positive outcome.

• Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that supports your case. This might include witness statements, dashcam footage, or any information that casts doubt on the validity of the arrest or BAC results.
• Consider Hiring a DUI Attorney: A DUI attorney experienced in Texas ALR hearings can be invaluable. They understand the legal procedures, can effectively cross-examine witnesses, and present a compelling case on your behalf. They can also negotiate with the DPS to potentially reduce the suspension period or obtain a hardship license.
• Understand What You Can Challenge: You can challenge various aspects of the DPS case, including the legality of the initial traffic stop, the accuracy of the breath or blood testing equipment, and whether the officer followed proper procedures during the arrest.

Possible Outcomes

The ALR hearing can have several possible outcomes:

• Suspension Upheld: If the DPS presents sufficient evidence, the hearing officer will uphold the suspension, and your license will be suspended for the appropriate period.
• Suspension Overturned: If you successfully challenge the DPS's evidence or demonstrate that the arrest was unlawful, the hearing officer can overturn the suspension, and your license will be reinstated.
• Restricted/Hardship License Granted: In some cases, even if the suspension is upheld, you may be eligible for a restricted or hardship license, allowing you to drive for essential purposes like work, school, or medical appointments.

Hardship/Restricted License in Texas

A hardship or restricted license in Texas can be a lifeline if your license is suspended.

• Eligibility Requirements: Eligibility requirements vary depending on the circumstances of your suspension. Generally, you must demonstrate a need to drive for essential purposes and have no other means of transportation.
• What You Can Drive For: A restricted license typically allows you to drive to and from work, school, medical appointments, and other essential activities.
• Costs and Application Process: The application process involves submitting a formal request to the DPS and providing documentation to support your need for a restricted license. There are also associated fees.
• IID Requirement: In some cases, particularly for repeat offenders or those with high BAC levels, the DPS may require you to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle as a condition of obtaining a restricted license.

Getting Your License Back

Reinstating your driver's license after a DUI suspension involves several steps.

After Criminal Case Concludes

• Reinstatement Requirements: After your suspension period ends and your criminal case is resolved, you will need to fulfill certain reinstatement requirements to get your license back.
• Fees: You will need to pay a reinstatement fee to the DPS.
• SR-22 Insurance Requirement: Texas typically requires individuals convicted of DUI to obtain SR-22 insurance, which is a certificate of financial responsibility, for a period of two to three years.
• Classes/Programs That Must Be Completed: You may be required to complete a DUI education course or other programs as part of your sentencing or as a condition of reinstatement.

Bee DMV Offices

While Bee County itself may not have a dedicated DMV office, here's information on nearby Texas DPS offices. Please check their websites for the most up-to-date hours and services offered.

(Note: Because Bee has no population, nearby DMV offices are not easily determined. It is recommended to search the Texas DPS website for nearby offices.)

• Texas Department of Public Safety - [Nearest City/Town]
• Address:
• Hours: [Hours of Operation]
• Phone: [Phone Number]

Special Programs

• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Program: This program allows individuals to drive with a restricted license if they install an IID in their vehicle. The device requires the driver to blow into it before starting the car and periodically while driving to ensure they are not intoxicated.
• Occupational License: An occupational license allows you to drive for essential work-related purposes even if your license is suspended. It is more restrictive than a hardship license and typically requires court approval.

This guide provides general information about DUI license suspensions and ALR hearings in Bee, Texas. However, every case is unique, and it is crucial to consult with a qualified DUI attorney to discuss your specific situation and protect your legal rights. Remember, acting quickly and understanding your options is essential to minimizing the impact of a DUI arrest on your life.