Being convicted of DWI in Texas doesn’t just result in fines, license suspension, and potential jail time—it can also make it harder to find and keep a job. Employers often run background checks, and having a criminal record could hurt your chances of getting hired. If you already have a job, a DWI might put your position at risk, especially if driving is part of your responsibilities. Here’s what you need to know about DWI conviction effects on employment.
Does a DWI Conviction Affect Employment?
A DWI conviction in Texas is a serious criminal offense that stays on your record and can make it harder to find or keep a job. Employers often run background checks, and a DWI can raise red flags, especially for jobs that involve driving, using heavy machinery, or taking responsibility for critical matters. Industries like transportation, healthcare, education, and government have strict hiring policies; some roles require a clean record or professional license. A DWI could even lead to termination if you already have a driving or licensing job.
Long-Term Effects on Future Employment
A DWI conviction can have long-term consequences for your career. In competitive job markets, employers may choose candidates with clean records over someone with a DWI. Some companies have strict policies that disqualify applicants with criminal histories, and the stigma of a conviction can stick around for years, affecting job security and career growth.
Will a DWI Show Up on a Background Check?
A DWI conviction will show up when they conduct background checks in Texas, which can impact hiring decisions. Even if it happened years ago, it stays on your record unless legally removed. Many employers use background check services to review applicants, and if they see a DWI, they might reject your application—especially for jobs that involve driving or major responsibilities.
DWI and Professional Licenses
A DWI conviction can jeopardize professional licenses. Licensing boards often have stringent standards, and a criminal conviction can lead to suspension or revocation of a license. For example, the Texas Medical Board and the Texas Board of Nursing review criminal records and can deny or revoke licenses based on DWI convictions.
Other industries affected include law, accounting, real estate, and finance, where background checks and ethical considerations play a significant role in hiring decisions. If you hold or plan to obtain a professional license, it is critical to understand how a DWI conviction could impact your ability to work in your field.
DWI Expungement for Employment
In Texas, you cannot erase a DWI from your record, but in some cases, you can seal it with an Order of Non-Disclosure. This does not make it disappear, but it does hide it from most employers during background checks. Whether you qualify depends on whether it was your first offense and if you meet specific requirements. Talking to a lawyer can help you determine if sealing your record is an option and how it could improve your chances of getting a job.
Jobs That Don’t Hire with a DWI
Some jobs are especially strict about DWI convictions and may not hire anyone with one on their record, including:
Commercial Driving: Most companies have zero-tolerance policies due to liability concerns.
Healthcare: Jobs involving patient care or medications may be off-limits.
Education & Childcare: Schools and daycares require clean records for safety.
Government & Law Enforcement: Security clearances and public trust rules can block these jobs.
Finance & Corporate: Strict background checks may disqualify candidates with criminal records.
Having a DWI on your record can make it much harder to get a job in these fields, so it is important to understand the challenges and consider alternative career options if needed.
How to Get a Job with a DWI
Getting a job after a DWI takes effort. Be honest about your record since hiding it can get you disqualified. Showing rehab efforts, like counseling or programs, can help; learning new skills or getting certified shows growth. A lawyer can seal your record, improving your chances. Some industries are strict, but others care more about skills than background checks, so focus on those employment opportunities.
Knowing how to handle a DWI conviction is imperative as you apply for jobs. If an application asks about criminal records, be honest and keep your answer short and direct. In interviews, be ready to talk about the conviction in a way that highlights what you have learned and how you have worked to improve. Since most employers run background checks, expect your DWI to show up unless it has been legally sealed. Being upfront and prepared can help employers see your qualifications and growth instead of focusing on past mistakes.
DWI and Security Clearance
A DWI conviction can make it harder to get jobs that require a security clearance, including government positions and specific private sector roles. A criminal record might disqualify you, especially if the DWI involved reckless behavior or multiple offenses. However, taking steps toward rehabilitation, like completing programs or showing personal growth, can sometimes improve your chances. Whether security clearance is approved or denied depends on the severity of the offense and how you have handled it since.
DWI and Government Jobs
Government jobs have strict rules about criminal records. Whether a DWI disqualifies you will depend on the specific job. Jobs in law enforcement, federal agencies, and state governments require background checks. Even if it doesn’t disqualify you entirely, a DWI on your record can make it much harder to get a job in the state or federal government.
Get Help from an Experienced DWI Defense Lawyer
A DWI conviction can make it harder to find a job, especially in careers that require a clean record or professional license. However, taking the right steps and getting legal help can improve your chances of moving forward and finding solid job opportunities.
At Rosenthal Kalabus & Therrian, our experienced DWI defense attorneys can help you understand your options. Contact us today at (972) 369-0577 or visit our contact page to learn more. Learn more about our lawyers and the law firm’s case results.