Sealing of Criminal Records in Virginia Overview:

Beginning on July 1, 2026, Virginia's new criminal record sealing laws (Va. Code § 19.2-392.5 et seq.) will take effect. These statutes allow certain criminal convictions and non-convictions to be sealed, removing them from public view and making them accessible only by court order for specific reasons. The laws provide for both automatic sealing of eligible offenses and the sealing of others through a petition process.

VSCC Sealing Brochure

Virginia Expungement Overview:

Expungement is not sealing; these are two separate processes. Expungement is only available through a petition process. There is no automatic expungement. As of July 1, 2026, there will be no fee to file a petition and no limit on the number of petitions you can have granted. 

VIDC Expungement Brochure

Information and Helpful Links on The Process of Sealing and Expungements:

• Virginia Crime Commission
• Virginia Public Defenders
• Virginia State Police Criminal History Record Check 
• Virginia Judicial Systems Sealing Forms
• Petition For Expungement
  • Instructions - Petition For Expungement