Kentucky Expungement Laws 2026
Kentucky expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in Kentucky.
Kentucky allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Expungement", governed by KRS § 431.076.
At a glance
| Detail | Kentucky |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Expungement |
| Statute | KRS § 431.076 |
| Automatic clearing? | No — a court petition is required |
| Waiting period | 5 years for misdemeanors; longer for some felonies |
| Eligible records | Misdemeanors, violations, and some felonies |
| Process | File a motion to expunge with the circuit court |
Who is eligible
Misdemeanors, violations, and some felonies.
How the process works
File a motion to expunge with the circuit court.
Source and last verified
Statute: KRS § 431.076. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the Kentucky records authority before acting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, the relief is called "Expungement", governed by KRS § 431.076.
How long do I wait before clearing a record in Kentucky?
5 years for misdemeanors; longer for some felonies.
Who can clear a record in Kentucky?
Misdemeanors, violations, and some felonies.
Does Kentucky clear records automatically?
No — in Kentucky you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.