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Does Texas have whiskey plates?

On Behalf of | Jun 22, 2022 | DWI

You likely know that having a history of driving while intoxicated can affect your career prospects. Your reputation can suffer as well, particularly in states that issue special license plates to repeat DWI offenders.

Commonly referred to as “whiskey plates,” these special license plates serve to replace an individual’s impounded plates after a DWI conviction. If you are a Texas driver receiving a first-time DWI charge, you might wonder if a whiskey plate will mark you in your state.

Whiskey plates in Texas

While license plate impoundment after a DWI conviction is common in many states, not all of those states require the use of so-called whiskey plates during the sanction period. Minnesota and Ohio are the only areas that make use of a whiskey plate policy. While some citizens may advocate for the benefits of special registration plates for impounded vehicles, Texas does not have them for DWI offenders.

Should Texas have whiskey plates?

In general, the process of impounding a DWI offender’s license plates serves to deter the use of a vehicle while under the punishment period for committing a drunk-driving crime. Using whiskey plates is an additional measure to mitigate repeat DWI offenses and discourage other drivers from driving while intoxicated as well. There are potential safety benefits that stem from the use of whiskey plates, but there is also a question as to whether enforcing such a policy might infringe on Texans’ privacy.

The state of Texas does not have a whiskey plate policy. However, you should bear in mind that the impoundment of your regular license plates will still affect you as well as any friends or family that would normally drive your vehicle.