Maryland Expungement Laws 2026
Maryland expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in Maryland.
Maryland allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Expungement / Shielding", governed by Md. Code, Pub. Safety § 10-101 et seq..
At a glance
| Detail | Maryland |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Expungement / Shielding |
| Statute | Md. Code, Pub. Safety § 10-101 et seq. |
| Automatic clearing? | No — a court petition is required |
| Waiting period | Varies by disposition (often 3 years) |
| Eligible records | Many convictions and non-convictions by petition |
| Process | File a petition to expunge or shield with the court |
Who is eligible
Many convictions and non-convictions by petition.
How the process works
File a petition to expunge or shield with the court.
Source and last verified
Statute: Md. Code, Pub. Safety § 10-101 et seq.. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the Maryland records authority before acting.
All 50 states
Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in Maryland?
In Maryland, the relief is called "Expungement / Shielding", governed by Md. Code, Pub. Safety § 10-101 et seq..
How long do I wait before clearing a record in Maryland?
Varies by disposition (often 3 years).
Who can clear a record in Maryland?
Many convictions and non-convictions by petition.
Does Maryland clear records automatically?
No — in Maryland you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.