Will DWI show up on a background check in Texas?

Yes — DWI charges show up on a background check forever in Texas. If the DWI was dismissed without probation, it is eligible for deletion through expunction. DWI convictions can now be sealed in certain circumstances with an order of nondisclosure. Learn more. 

• Background check TexasCriminal arrests and dispositions show up on background checks in Texas. Misdemeanor and felony charges, even if dismissed, remain on a person’s record forever and show up on all background checks unless sealed or expunged. Learn more.

• Do warrants show up on background checks?Active warrants show up on background checks. Active warrants can be identified through simple identification checks at airports or customs, as well as by police officers checking a driver’s license during a routine traffic stop. Learn more.
  

• Do pending charges show up on background checks?Pending criminal charges will show up on background checks. While this can be problematic, it is important to note that a pending criminal charge on a background check is not the same thing as a permanent criminal conviction. 

WILL A MISDEMEANOR AFFECT EMPLOYMENT?

Misdemeanor charges can have a negative impact on employment opportunities. A pending misdemeanor charge indicates possible recent criminal activity, while an older misdemeanor charge will likely be reviewed for the type of conduct alleged: drugs or alcohol, violence, theft, etc.

Many misdemeanor charges, even convictions, are eligible to be deleted or sealed in Texas. Learn more. 

• Does a misdemeanor show up on a background check?Misdemeanor charges stay on a person’s record forever in Texas. Misdemeanor charges do not “fall off” after a certain number of years. A misdemeanor charge, even if it was eventually dismissed in court, will remain forever.  

FIRST OFFENSE DWI AND EMPLOYMENT IN TEXAS

Misdemeanor charges stay on a criminal record forever. They can, however, be removed through the expunction process or sealed through an order of nondisclosure. It is important to take advantage of nondisclosures and expunctions. Employers will almost always select the candidate with no criminal history.

• Will a DUI show up after 10 years in Texas?Yes. Misdemeanor convictions stay on a criminal record forever in Texas, but in certain circumstances the arrest record and conviction can be sealed. Learn more.
  

• Will DWI show up on a background check if not convicted?DWI will show up on a background check even if the charges were dismissed. Many employers and businesses do not understand the difference between a charge and final conviction. This is why it’s critical to delete and seal every possible thing on your record. 

WILL AN OUT OF STATE DUI SHOW UP ON BACKGROUND CHECK?

Out of state misdemeanor charges show up on some, but not all, background checks. Out of state charges can, and always will, be used as enhancements for new charges in Texas. 

• Does out of state DWI count as first in Texas?Most states have similar laws concerning intoxication offenses. So, while there are exceptions, most out of state convictions will be used to enhance a Texas charge. This is most common with DWI, DWI second offense, and DWI third or more (felony DWI).

• Will a DUI fail a background check for a gun in Texas?Misdemeanor DUI and DWI charges will not prevent a person from gun ownership in Texas. A pending criminal charge does complicate a person’s ability to lawfully carry a gun in Texas, but it does not infringe on the constitutional right of ownership.