How to use the criminal record expungement calculator
Korea clears a record automatically once a fixed statutory period runs. In the United States there is no national rule, so this tool models the waiting period as an editable figure and tells you the earliest date you could file where that period applies.
Legal basis — Expungement and record sealing are creatures of state law, and the eligible offenses, waiting periods and procedures differ in every state. Common patterns are one to three years after completing a misdemeanor sentence and five to ten years for a non-violent felony, with cases that ended in dismissal or acquittal often eligible immediately. Federal convictions are different: there is no general federal expungement statute, and the narrow exception at 18 U.S.C. 3607(c) covers certain first-time simple possession dispositions for a person under 21 at the time of the offense. Figures reflect law as of September 2026.
A growing number of states run clean slate programs that clear qualifying records without a petition once the waiting period passes. Even where a petition is needed, eligibility usually also depends on having no later convictions and on all fines and restitution being paid.
This calculator is for reference only and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in the state where the case was handled before relying on any date here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally no. There is no general federal expungement statute for adult convictions. One narrow exception is 18 U.S.C. 3607(c), which allows expungement of certain first-time simple possession dispositions for a person who was under 21 at the time. A presidential pardon is a separate form of relief and does not erase the record.
Because expungement and sealing are state programs. Each state sets its own eligible offenses, waiting periods and filing procedure, and some states have clean slate laws that clear qualifying records automatically. Check the statute for the state where the case was handled.