Can I get a CHL with a DWI conviction?

Texans love guns. We love booze. We live in a state with crappy public transportation. The result? A lot of people with concealed handgun licenses (CHL) get arrested for DWI in Texas. And a lot of people who want to get a CHL have a DWI conviction on their record.

The answer is no, you can’t get a CHL after a DWI conviction, at least for a while.

A misdemeanor DWI conviction will disqualify you from getting a CHL for a period of 5 years. Don’t take my word for it. Here is a DPS statement on the subject

20. If I was convicted of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI), am I eligible for a Texas License to Carry a Handgun (LTC)?

DWI is classified as at least a Class B misdemeanor, and you are ineligible for a license for five years after a conviction for a Class A or Class B misdemeanor. For the purpose of determining eligibility, a conviction includes those that were dismissed after you completed probation or deferred adjudication.

If you have a felony DWI conviction then you aren’t getting a CHL at all. So if you get arrested for a DWI, and you have a CHL, and you want to keep your CHL, then you can’t be convicted. Hire a defense lawyer immediately to help you fight the case, or learn kung fu for self-defense.

What if I am just arrested for DWI? What happens to my CHL?

If you are charged with ANY class A or class B misdemeanor then your CHL will be suspended.

If you are arrested for DWI you need a defense lawyer. Not just to protect you CHL, but to protect your right to drive and keep you out of jail. Guest and Gray has a team of DWI defense lawyers ready to assist you. Call today for a free consultation.