Texas Expungement Laws 2026
Texas expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in Texas.
Texas allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Expunction / Order of Nondisclosure", governed by Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 55.01 / 55A.
At a glance
| Detail | Texas |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Expunction / Order of Nondisclosure |
| Statute | Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 55.01 / 55A |
| Automatic clearing? | No — a court petition is required |
| Waiting period | Varies; often years after case ends |
| Eligible records | Acquittals and arrests; partial sealing for some convictions |
| Process | File expunction petition or petition for nondisclosure order |
Who is eligible
Acquittals and arrests; partial sealing for some convictions.
How the process works
File expunction petition or petition for nondisclosure order.
Source and last verified
Statute: Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 55.01 / 55A. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the Texas records authority before acting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in Texas?
In Texas, the relief is called "Expunction / Order of Nondisclosure", governed by Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 55.01 / 55A.
How long do I wait before clearing a record in Texas?
Varies; often years after case ends.
Who can clear a record in Texas?
Acquittals and arrests; partial sealing for some convictions.
Does Texas clear records automatically?
No — in Texas you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.