Georgia Expungement Laws 2026
Georgia expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in Georgia.
Georgia allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Record Restriction (Expungement)", governed by Ga. Code § 35-3-37.
At a glance
| Detail | Georgia |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Record Restriction (Expungement) |
| Statute | Ga. Code § 35-3-37 |
| Automatic clearing? | No — a court petition is required |
| Waiting period | Restriction possible after case ends |
| Eligible records | Arrests not leading to conviction; limited conviction relief |
| Process | File a request to restrict through the prosecutor or court |
Who is eligible
Arrests not leading to conviction; limited conviction relief.
How the process works
File a request to restrict through the prosecutor or court.
Source and last verified
Statute: Ga. Code § 35-3-37. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the Georgia records authority before acting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in Georgia?
In Georgia, the relief is called "Record Restriction (Expungement)", governed by Ga. Code § 35-3-37.
How long do I wait before clearing a record in Georgia?
Restriction possible after case ends.
Who can clear a record in Georgia?
Arrests not leading to conviction; limited conviction relief.
Does Georgia clear records automatically?
No — in Georgia you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.