What Is an ALR Hearing in Collin County, Texas?
Understanding ALR Hearings After a DWI Arrest in McKinney, TX
If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Collin County, one of the first steps you must take is to understand your rights regarding your driver’s license. The Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing is a critical part of this process, and it operates separately from your criminal case.
In this guide, we break down what an ALR hearing is, why it matters, and what you can do to protect your driving privileges in McKinney and across Collin County.
What Is an ALR Hearing?
An ALR hearing is a civil proceeding managed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). It determines whether your driver’s license will be suspended due to a DWI-related arrest. This hearing does not address criminal guilt—it strictly focuses on your right to drive.
Most people facing a license suspension after a DWI arrest don’t realize this hearing is optional—but if you don’t request it in time, your license will be automatically suspended.
You Only Have 15 Days to Act
Time is of the essence. After being arrested for DWI in Collin County, you have 15 days from the date of arrest to request an ALR hearing. Missing this deadline means:
- Your license will be automatically suspended.
- You lose the opportunity to contest the suspension.
- You could face months without legal driving privileges.
This is why hiring a DWI attorney quickly is so important.
What Triggers an ALR Hearing?
Not all traffic offenses trigger an ALR hearing—it’s specific to DWI-related incidents, such as:
- Driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
- Refusing to submit to a breath or blood test when requested by law enforcement.
If either of these occurred during your arrest in McKinney or elsewhere in Collin County, the ALR process begins immediately.
What Happens at an ALR Hearing in McKinney?
Your hearing will be conducted by an administrative law judge, not a criminal court judge. Here’s what typically happens:
- The judge reviews evidence provided by the Texas DPS.
- You or your attorney present evidence and testimony in your defense.
- The judge determines whether DPS has met the burden of proof to suspend your license.
Evidence may include:
- Police reports from the arresting officer.
- Results from breath or blood alcohol tests.
- Witness statements or dash-cam footage.
How to Prepare for an ALR Hearing
To build a strong defense, your preparation should include:
✅ Witness Statements
If anyone witnessed your arrest or can confirm your sobriety, their testimony may help your case.
✅ Medical Documentation
Medical conditions or prescriptions that could affect your behavior or test results should be documented and submitted.
✅ Review of Chemical Tests
If a breathalyzer or blood test was performed, reviewing the procedures and results is key. Inaccuracies or improper handling can be challenged
Why Legal Representation Matters
Although you’re allowed to represent yourself, hiring a DWI defense lawyer in Collin County is strongly advised. A skilled attorney can:
- Request and conduct the hearing on your behalf.
- Subpoena officers and witnesses.
- Challenge improper testing procedures or rights violations.
- Guide your overall defense strategy for both the ALR and criminal cases.
A good defense attorney knows local procedures, understands judge expectations, and is equipped to help you avoid unnecessary license suspensions.
Protect Your License — Take Immediate Action
Whether you live in McKinney, Frisco, Plano, or elsewhere in Collin County, the ALR hearing is a critical opportunity to fight for your driving privileges. Don’t delay.
If you’ve recently been arrested for DWI:
- Mark your 15-day deadline.
- Consult with a qualified DWI attorney.
- Gather documentation to support your case.
Need Help with an ALR Hearing in Collin County?
At McKinney-Lawyer.com, we’re experienced in navigating both the criminal and administrative consequences of a DWI arrest. We can guide you through every step of the ALR process and help you build the strongest possible defense.