📜Here's a breakdown:

• Permanent Record:
  A DWI conviction, once entered, remains on your criminal record indefinitely unless you take steps to remove or seal it, regardless of whether you were convicted or the case was dismissed. 

• Expungement (Limited Circumstances):
  If the DWI charge was dismissed without a conviction or you were found not guilty, you may be able to petition for expungement (removal of the record), but this is not always possible. 

• Nondisclosure (Sealing):
  If you are not eligible for expungement, an "order of nondisclosure" can be obtained to seal the record from public view, meaning that it is no longer publicly accessible. 

• Second Chance Law:
  The Texas "Second Chance Bill" (HB 3016) allows first-time DWI offenders to seal their criminal record if they complete six months of sober driving with an ignition interlock device and a 2-year waiting period after completing their probation. 

Long-term consequences:
A DWI can have a lasting impact on job prospects, housing options, educational opportunities, and more. ⏳