Cannabis Expungement Guide
Clear Your Record & Move Forward
Millions of Americans have cannabis convictions that are now eligible for expungement. Learn how to clear your record and remove barriers to employment, housing, and more.
The Impact of Expungement
What Is Expungement?
Expungement is the legal process of removing or sealing criminal records. Once expunged, the conviction typically will not appear on background checks and you can legally answer "no" when asked if you have been convicted of a crime.
Expungement
Record is destroyed or permanently removed from databases
Sealing
Record exists but is hidden from most background checks
Pardon
Official forgiveness; record may still exist but impact is reduced
The Expungement Process
Check Your Eligibility
Review your state's requirements. Typically eligible: simple possession, small amounts, no violent offenses involved.
Obtain Your Records
Get copies of your criminal record from the court or state police. Know exactly what convictions you have.
Complete Application
Fill out the expungement petition for your jurisdiction. Many states offer free forms online.
Submit & Pay Fees
File with the appropriate court. Fees range from $0 to $500+ depending on state. Many offer fee waivers.
Wait for Decision
Processing time varies from weeks to months. Some require a hearing, others are administrative.
Verify Clearance
Once approved, verify records are cleared. Request updated background check to confirm.
Expungement by State
| State | Type | Scope | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | Automatic | Up to 30g possession, purchase | 700,000+ records cleared |
| California | Automatic + Petition | Most cannabis convictions | Prop 64 provisions |
| New Jersey | Automatic | Possession under 6 oz, paraphernalia | 360,000+ records eligible |
| New York | Automatic | Most cannabis convictions | MRTA provisions |
| Virginia | Petition | Simple possession | Eligible after 7 years |
| Colorado | Petition + Some Automatic | Possession, use convictions | Governor issued mass pardons |
| Michigan | Petition + Clean Slate | Misdemeanor cannabis offenses | Automatic for many offenses |
| Oregon | Automatic | Possession convictions | Measure 110 provisions |
| Washington | Petition | Misdemeanor possession | Case-by-case basis |
| Massachusetts | Petition | Cannabis offenses now legal | Free application |
| Nevada | Petition | Possession convictions | Sealing available |
| Connecticut | Automatic | Possession under .5 oz | Expanded eligibility |
| Vermont | Petition | Cannabis convictions | Court review required |
| New Mexico | Automatic | Decriminalized offenses | Broad eligibility |
| Arizona | Petition | Cannabis convictions now legal | Prop 207 provisions |
Note: Laws change frequently. Verify current requirements with your state's court system.
Benefits of Expungement
Employment
- ✓Pass background checks for jobs
- ✓Apply for professional licenses
- ✓Work in cannabis industry (in most states)
- ✓Average 22% increase in wages
Housing
- ✓Qualify for rental housing
- ✓Access public housing programs
- ✓Obtain mortgage loans
- ✓Remove barrier to homeownership
Education
- ✓Apply for federal student aid
- ✓Qualify for scholarships
- ✓Admission to schools/programs
- ✓Professional certifications
Other Rights
- ✓Restore voting rights (if affected)
- ✓Serve on juries
- ✓Potential firearm rights restoration
- ✓Peace of mind
Get Help with Expungement
Free Resources
- • Legal aid societies (income-based)
- • Law school clinics
- • Expungement fairs in your area
- • State public defender offices
- • Code for America: getclearance.org
Paid Services
- • Criminal defense attorneys
- • Expungement-focused law firms
- • Online legal services
- • Paralegal services (limited)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does expungement take?
Typically 2-6 months, but automatic expungement programs may take longer to process all records. Some courts have backlogs.
Can felony cannabis convictions be expunged?
In some states, yes. Illinois, California, and others allow certain felony cannabis convictions to be expunged or reduced to misdemeanors.
Will it still show on FBI background checks?
State expungement should remove records from state databases. Federal databases may take longer to update, but expunged records should not appear.
What if I have convictions in multiple states?
You will need to apply for expungement in each state where you have convictions. The process and eligibility varies by state.
Check Your State's Expungement Laws
Get detailed information about expungement eligibility and process in your state.