Pennsylvania Expungement Guide
Learn how to clear your record in Pennsylvania.
Expungement
Available
Record Sealing
Available
Clean Slate
Yes
Learn about expungement in Pennsylvania
Explore eligibility requirements, waiting periods, and the filing process.
Filing Fees
Fee waiver available for qualifying individuals
Process Steps (Conviction Expungement)
- 1
Check Clean Slate Automatic Sealing
Pennsylvania's Clean Slate law may have automatically sealed your record.
- 2
Gather Your Case Information
Collect all relevant documents about your case.
- 3
Complete Expungement Petition Forms
Fill out the required forms for your specific type of expungement.
- 4
File Your Petition with the Court
Submit your petition to the court of common pleas.
- 5
Serve the District Attorney
Provide a copy of your petition to the district attorney's office.
- 6
Attend Hearing (if required)
Some cases require a hearing; others are granted on the papers.
- 7
Receive Your Expungement Order
Once granted, the court will issue an expungement order.
Important Notes
- *Pennsylvania was the first state to enact a Clean Slate law (2018)
- *Clean Slate SEALS records (limited access), traditional expungement DESTROYS them
- *Act 83 of 2020 expanded Clean Slate to most misdemeanors and many felonies
- *Act 56 of 2023 added automatic expungement for pardoned offenses
- *Clean Slate does NOT restore gun rights - only full expungement does
- *Sealed records under Clean Slate remain accessible to law enforcement and certain agencies
- *ARD completions are treated as non-convictions for expungement purposes
- *Some counties have more restrictive local rules - check with the court
Resources
Statewide network of legal aid programs providing free civil legal assistance.
Free legal services in Philadelphia, including Clean Slate and expungement help.
Expungement and record clearing services in Philadelphia area.
Free legal services in Allegheny County and Pittsburgh area.
Free legal services in Central Pennsylvania, including expungement assistance.
Online guide to legal information and services in Pennsylvania.
Free tool to check your PA criminal record and Clean Slate eligibility.
Official Pennsylvania courts website with forms and docket search.
Find an attorney through the state bar's referral service.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Consult with a qualified attorney in Pennsylvania for advice specific to your situation.