Rhode Island Expungement Laws 2026
Rhode Island expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Expungement", governed by R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-1.3-1.
At a glance
| Detail | Rhode Island |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Expungement |
| Statute | R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-1.3-1 |
| Automatic clearing? | No — a court petition is required |
| Waiting period | 5 years for many; longer for some |
| Eligible records | Eligible misdemeanors and some felonies |
| Process | Petition the court for expungement |
Who is eligible
Eligible misdemeanors and some felonies.
How the process works
Petition the court for expungement.
Source and last verified
Statute: R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-1.3-1. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the Rhode Island records authority before acting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, the relief is called "Expungement", governed by R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-1.3-1.
How long do I wait before clearing a record in Rhode Island?
5 years for many; longer for some.
Who can clear a record in Rhode Island?
Eligible misdemeanors and some felonies.
Does Rhode Island clear records automatically?
No — in Rhode Island you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.