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North Carolina Expungement Guide

Learn how to clear your record in North Carolina. In North Carolina, this process is called “expunction.”

Expungement

Available

Record Sealing

Not available

Clean Slate

Yes

Learn about expungement in North Carolina

Explore eligibility requirements, waiting periods, and the filing process.

Filing Fees

Filing Fee175

Fee waiver available for qualifying individuals

Process Steps (Conviction Expungement)

  1. 1

    Verify Your Eligibility

    Ensure you meet all requirements for conviction expunction.

  2. 2

    Calculate Your Eligibility Date

    Determine exactly when your waiting period is complete.

  3. 3

    Gather Required Documents

    Collect all documents related to your conviction and sentence.

  4. 4

    Complete the Petition for Expunction

    Fill out the appropriate form based on your conviction type.

  5. 5

    File the Petition with the Clerk

    Submit your petition to the clerk of superior court in the county of conviction.

  6. 6

    Attend the Court Hearing

    The court will schedule a hearing to determine if you qualify.

  7. 7

    Obtain the Expunction Order

    If granted, get certified copies of the order.

  8. 8

    Verify Complete Expunction

    Check that your record has been removed from all databases.

Resources

Official website for NC courts with forms, locations, and information.

Directory of all 100 North Carolina county courthouses with contact information.

Free civil legal assistance for low-income North Carolinians across the state.

Lawyer referral service and legal resources.

Coalition working to expand expungement access and provide resources.

Advocacy organization with criminal justice reform resources including expunction guides.

IdentoGO enrollment centers in North Carolina

NC SBI fingerprinting information

Learn more about North Carolina

Read our detailed guide, or check back soon for DIY filing tools.