# Can You Expunge a Texas DWI? | TadLaw **Table of Contents***[*Expand*]* 1. DWI Expungement in Texas Explained 2. Eligibility for DWI Expungement 3. The Difference Between Expungement and Non-Disclosure (Record Sealing) 4. Why Hiring a Houston DWI Lawyer is Important For Your Case A DWI conviction on a record might impact employment opportunities, housing options, and even the holding of specific licenses. In Texas, expungement is the legal process by which one can have certain criminal records erased, although eligibility for this in the case of a DWI is limited. In this article, we will explore the eligibility requirements for DWI expungement, alternatives like non-disclosure, and why seeking help from a [Houston DWI attorney](https://tadlaw.com/practice-areas/) is good for you. ## DWI Expungement in Texas Explained Expungement is a process in Texas that removes records related to criminal charges, effectively clearing the record. This is a relief option for some individuals, but Texas is strict on DWI expungements. For most individuals convicted of a DWI, expungement is not an option. The primary cases eligible for expungement involve situations where a DWI charge did not result in a conviction, such as cases where the individual was acquitted, or the charges were dismissed. If a DWI case was dismissed or ended in acquittal, expungement could be possible. This includes cases where the prosecution dropped the charges or where a court found the defendant not guilty. These situations allow an individual to petition for expungement to remove the record entirely. ## Eligibility for DWI Expungement Eligibility for DWI expungement requires specific circumstances. A charge must not have resulted in a conviction. Additionally, individuals who completed pretrial diversion programs that led to case dismissal could be eligible. However, once convicted, a DWI cannot be expunged in Texas. There is also a waiting period involved in filing for expungement. The individual must wait until the statute of limitations expires or until the case reaches final disposition. Only after the waiting period can they petition for expungement. For a free legal consultation, call [(281) 280-0100](tel:+12812800100) today ## The Difference Between Expungement and Non-Disclosure (Record Sealing) Texas provides an alternative to expungement called non-disclosure. It is often available to first-time DWI offenders who meet specific criteria. Non-disclosure, or record sealing, restricts access to the DWI record. This means that it is unavailable to most private employers and individuals. Law enforcement and certain licensing agencies, however, retain access. Non-disclosure does not completely clear the record but offers protection from public disclosure. It is often available for first-time DWI offenders who completed probation and avoided further legal issues. While it does not fully remove the DWI, it can provide a level of relief and privacy. ![Arrested for DWI? Call Tad Nelson](https://tadlaw.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Tad-IG-Ad-03-DWI-1024x576.jpg) ## Why Hiring a Houston DWI Lawyer is Important For Your Case Texas expungement laws involve extensive paperwork and court procedures. It is very difficult to handle alone. A Houston drunk driving attorney can help manage every step of the process, avoiding mistakes and ensuring compliance with legal requirements. If you’re looking to clear your record or explore options like non-disclosure for a DWI in Texas, the legal team at Tad Nelson & Associates is here to guide you. Our experienced Houston DWI lawyer can help you work toward the best possible outcome for your case. [Contact us](https://tadlaw.com/contact-us/) today at [281-280-0100](tel:+12812800100) to schedule a consultation. Call or text [(281) 280-0100](tel:+12812800100) or fill out our [Free Case Evaluation Form](https://tadlaw.com/contact-us/) to get started DWI Blog Posts: [DWI Blood Testing and Texas Law DWI In a recent post, we discussed the exigent circumstances exception for warrantless blood-alcohol testing currently being considered by the U.S. Supreme Court....](https://tadlaw.com/blog/dwi-blood-testing-and-texas-law/) [Texas Ceremony Honors DWI Officers DWI Texas readers who question whether local authorities are investing more time and money into drunk driving enforcement efforts need only read about...](https://tadlaw.com/blog/texas-ceremony-honors-dwi-officers/) [Texas District Attorney Arrested for DWI DWI Government or public figures implicated in a scandal may take a variety of approaches. Some may deny all charges, while others offer...](https://tadlaw.com/blog/texas-district-attorney-arrested-for-dwi/) [DA Serves Half of DWI Sentence DWI This blog has profiled some of the penalties brought by Texas enforcement officials against individuals accused of driving while intoxicated, as well...](https://tadlaw.com/blog/da-serves-half-of-dwi-sentence/) --- Source: https://tadlaw.com/blog/can-you-expunge-a-texas-dwi/