Ohio Expungement Laws 2026
Ohio expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in Ohio.
Ohio allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Sealing / Expungement", governed by Ohio Rev. Code § 2953.32.
At a glance
| Detail | Ohio |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Sealing / Expungement |
| Statute | Ohio Rev. Code § 2953.32 |
| Automatic clearing? | No — a court petition is required |
| Waiting period | 1-5 years by offense |
| Eligible records | Many convictions and arrests after a wait |
| Process | File an application to seal with the court |
Who is eligible
Many convictions and arrests after a wait.
How the process works
File an application to seal with the court.
Source and last verified
Statute: Ohio Rev. Code § 2953.32. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the Ohio records authority before acting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in Ohio?
In Ohio, the relief is called "Sealing / Expungement", governed by Ohio Rev. Code § 2953.32.
How long do I wait before clearing a record in Ohio?
1-5 years by offense.
Who can clear a record in Ohio?
Many convictions and arrests after a wait.
Does Ohio clear records automatically?
No — in Ohio you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.