In Texas, a DWI Could Cost You More Than Just Your License
A DWI conviction in Texas carries severe penalties—loss of driving privileges, substantial fines, and, in some cases, jail time. But what many people don’t realize is that a DWI can also impact your right to legally own or carry a firearm.
This isn’t just a concern for gun enthusiasts. It matters to hunters, concealed handgun license holders, and anyone in Texas who believes in their Second Amendment rights. If you’ve been arrested for driving while intoxicated, understanding how your case could affect gun ownership is essential, and acting fast with the help of a DWI defense lawyer to protect your rights is critical.
Texas Gun Laws and DWI Convictions
Texas has some of the most well-known gun rights protections in the country. But a DWI conviction can still limit those rights, especially when it intersects with state and federal restrictions.
Under Texas law, if you're convicted of a Class A or Class B misdemeanor DWI, you automatically lose your right to carry a handgun outside your home, car, or property for five years. That means your license to carry (LTC) becomes invalid. Even after that five-year period, you’ll be classified as a “chemical dependent person,” which can prevent you from renewing or obtaining a handgun license again.
That’s just the start. If your DWI is charged as a felony—for example, because it’s your third offense, involved a child passenger, or caused serious injury—you could lose your gun rights permanently under federal law.
Federal Restrictions After a DWI Conviction
The federal government takes a harder line. Under federal law, anyone convicted of a felony is prohibited from possessing firearms for life. That means even if Texas law would allow you to apply for relief or restoration of rights, federal law will still block your ability to legally buy or own a gun.
There are also situations where federal law can apply even in misdemeanor DWI cases, especially if your conviction is tied to domestic violence or if you're subject to a protective order at the time of arrest.
This creates a dangerous trap for anyone trying to navigate both state and federal firearm laws after a DWI. What might seem like a minor misdemeanor in a Texas courtroom could quietly disqualify you from legally owning a firearm under federal rules.
Why This Matters for LTC Holders, Hunters, and Gun Owners
If you own firearms for hunting, sport, self-defense, or work, a DWI conviction can severely limit what you can legally do. You may be forced to give up your guns, delay renewing your license to carry, or stop carrying altogether. If you’re caught carrying or owning a gun while prohibited, you could face serious federal charges—even if you didn’t know you were breaking the law.
Many responsible gun owners end up blindsided by these rules because they assume the criminal charge won’t go beyond fines or license points. But firearm restrictions are one of the most overlooked long-term consequences of a DWI.
How Amanda Webb Can Help Protect Your Rights
Attorney Amanda Webb has spent her career helping Texans fight back against unfair DWI charges—and part of that fight includes protecting what matters most to you, including your right to bear arms. From her office in Conroe, she represents clients across Montgomery County and the greater Houston area who are facing life-changing consequences after a drunk driving arrest.
Her approach is aggressive, strategic, and built on years of courtroom experience. She doesn’t just look at the surface of a DWI charge. She digs into how the stop was conducted, whether your rights were violated, and what evidence can be challenged. A strong defense can lead to reduced charges, dismissals, or even full acquittals—and that can be the difference between keeping your gun rights or losing them for years, or even for life.
Don’t Risk Losing Your Rights. Take Action Now
If you’ve been arrested for DWI in Texas and you own a firearm, you need to speak with a criminal defense attorney who understands how these laws intersect.
Attorney Amanda Webb will work quickly to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and fight for the best possible outcome—because your future and your freedom are on the line. Give us a call or request a free consultation online. We are available 24/7.
"Hands down the best lawyer and attorney in the county. I had a few cases, and thanks to Patrick and Amanda, they helped me out plenty of times. Also, very affordable." — Diego E., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐