Quick answer: The ALR hearing is the separate civil case over your driver’s license — 15 days from arrest to request it. Requesting pauses the suspension, forces DPS to prove its case, and lets your lawyer cross-examine the arresting officer under oath months before the criminal case is decided.
Hearings run through the State Office of Administrative Hearings, typically by phone, with DPS carrying the burden. Win: no suspension. Lose: 90 days (test failure) or 180 days (refusal), longer with priors — with occupational licenses available either way.
The strategic value exceeds the license: subpoenaing the officer produces early sworn testimony, and inconsistencies with the written report become impeachment material at trial. Skipping the ALR wastes the best free discovery in a DWI case — which is why it’s included in our flat fee, never an add-on.
Related questions
I missed the 15 days — now what?
The suspension triggers (starting about 40 days after arrest), but occupational licenses keep you driving legally, and your criminal defense is unaffected. Call anyway — edge cases exist.
Do I attend the hearing?
Usually your attorney handles it — often by phone — and your appearance isn’t required. The officer’s appearance is the one we care about.
More: Williamson County DWI defense · All locations
Free consultation — 24/7. We review your stop, explain your options, and quote a flat fee. Criminal defense in Travis, Hays, Williamson, Bexar, and Bastrop counties is provided by Stephen T. Bowling, DWI & Criminal Defense Attorneys.
General legal information for Texas — not legal advice about your specific case. Last reviewed July 2026.