Montana Expungement Laws 2026
Montana expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in Montana.
Montana allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Expungement", governed by Mont. Code § 46-23-501.
At a glance
| Detail | Montana |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Expungement |
| Statute | Mont. Code § 46-23-501 |
| Automatic clearing? | No — a court petition is required |
| Waiting period | Varies by offense |
| Eligible records | Certain offenses after a waiting period |
| Process | Petition the district court for expungement |
Who is eligible
Certain offenses after a waiting period.
How the process works
Petition the district court for expungement.
Source and last verified
Statute: Mont. Code § 46-23-501. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the Montana records authority before acting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in Montana?
In Montana, the relief is called "Expungement", governed by Mont. Code § 46-23-501.
How long do I wait before clearing a record in Montana?
Varies by offense.
Who can clear a record in Montana?
Certain offenses after a waiting period.
Does Montana clear records automatically?
No — in Montana you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.