What is an administrative license suspension (ALS)?

An administrative license suspension (ALS) is a legal process used in Texas to penalize people found to be driving while intoxicated (DWI). An ALS is essentially an agreement between the motorist and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Through this agreement, the motorist agrees to have their driver’s license suspended, and in exchange, the DPS agrees not to file any criminal charges against them. When a person is stopped by law enforcement for suspicion of driving while intoxicated in Texas, the police officer may ask them to take a breathalyzer test. If the result of that test shows that the driver’s blood alcohol concentration is over the legal limit of 0.08%, the officer can order the DPS to suspend the driver’s license for a certain period of time. This period of time can range from 90 days to two years, depending on the severity of the offense. In addition, the DPS can also impose additional fines and penalties on the driver which can include community service or an alcohol education program. All these steps are part of the ALS process and must be completed in order to reinstate the driver’s license. It’s important to note that an ALS is not a criminal conviction. However, it is an administrative penalty that can carry significant consequences. An administrative license suspension is meant to discourage people from driving while intoxicated in Texas, and it can help save lives.

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What is an administrative license suspension (ALS)?

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