The Real Cost of a DUI in Texas
TL;DR:
One DUI could cost you $17,000+, your freedom, and even someone’s life. Here's what it really costs—and how to avoid it before it wrecks your record.
The Human Cost: Some Mistakes Can't Be Undone
In 2024, over 1,050 Texans lost their lives in alcohol-related crashes—that’s around three people every single day who never made it home. Some were passengers. Others were innocent strangers.
If you’re wondering how many people die from DUIs in Texas each year, the number is staggering—and rising.
One buzzed drive isn’t worth a lifetime of grief or guilt.
Want more eye-opening stats? Check out the full state of driving safety in Texas.
The Freedom Cost: From Road Trips to Court Dates
If you’re convicted of DUI in Texas, it’s not just your license on the line—it’s your entire lifestyle.
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Up to 180 days in jail
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License suspension up to 2 years
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100+ hours of community service
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Mandatory DUI education programs
Wondering what happens if you get a DUI in Texas for the first time? This guide for teens and parents on impaired driving explains the ripple effect of one bad decision.
The Financial Cost: Hope You Weren’t Saving for a Car
Here’s how much a DUI can cost in Texas:
| Expense | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Legal fees & court costs | $3,000–$10,000 |
| Bail, towing & impound | $1,000+ |
| License reinstatement & IID install | $2,000+ |
| Insurance hike | +$2,000/year for 3–7 years |
| Missed work & wages | Varies |
The total can exceed $17,000, and that doesn’t include the cost of embarrassment, inconvenience, or long-term consequences.
Not sure if defensive driving can help reduce insurance costs in Texas? Here’s exactly how it works.
The Smart Move: Choose Safety, Not Regret
The best way to avoid a DUI? Don’t drive impaired. Period.
But if you’ve already gotten a ticket—or want to protect yourself before you do—our Texas Defensive Driving course is state-approved, mobile-friendly, and packed with real-world safety skills.
Want a step-by-step on how to complete defensive driving in Texas and what you’ll need? This walkthrough covers it all.
Don’t Let One Night Cost You Everything
Finish Aceable’s Texas Defensive Driving course today.
Dismiss tickets
Lower your insurance
Get back on the road, smarter and safer
Related Resources
Always Drive Sober and Take Defensive Driving to Avoid the Costly Expense of a DUI.