North Dakota Expungement Laws 2026
North Dakota expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in North Dakota.
North Dakota allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Expungement", governed by N.D. Cent. Code § 12-60.1-01.
At a glance
| Detail | North Dakota |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Expungement |
| Statute | N.D. Cent. Code § 12-60.1-01 |
| Automatic clearing? | No — a court petition is required |
| Waiting period | Varies by offense type |
| Eligible records | Eligible records after a waiting period |
| Process | Petition the district court for expungement |
Who is eligible
Eligible records after a waiting period.
How the process works
Petition the district court for expungement.
Source and last verified
Statute: N.D. Cent. Code § 12-60.1-01. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the North Dakota records authority before acting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in North Dakota?
In North Dakota, the relief is called "Expungement", governed by N.D. Cent. Code § 12-60.1-01.
How long do I wait before clearing a record in North Dakota?
Varies by offense type.
Who can clear a record in North Dakota?
Eligible records after a waiting period.
Does North Dakota clear records automatically?
No — in North Dakota you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.