ExpungeMap

New Mexico Expungement Laws 2026

New Mexico expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in New Mexico.

New Mexico allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Expungement", governed by N.M. Stat. § 29-3-1.

At a glance

DetailNew Mexico
Relief availableExpungement
StatuteN.M. Stat. § 29-3-1
Automatic clearing?No — a court petition is required
Waiting periodVaries by offense
Eligible recordsEligible records after a waiting period
ProcessPetition the district court for expungement

Who is eligible

Eligible records after a waiting period.

How the process works

Petition the district court for expungement.

Source and last verified

Statute: N.M. Stat. § 29-3-1. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the New Mexico records authority before acting.

Reviewed by D. Reyes, legal reference editor

All 50 states

Reviewed by D. Reyes, legal reference editor

Frequently Asked Questions

What is record clearing called in New Mexico?

In New Mexico, the relief is called "Expungement", governed by N.M. Stat. § 29-3-1.

How long do I wait before clearing a record in New Mexico?

Varies by offense.

Who can clear a record in New Mexico?

Eligible records after a waiting period.

Does New Mexico clear records automatically?

No — in New Mexico you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.

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