Clearing a DUI From Your Record in Maryland
Whether a DUI or DWI conviction can be expunged or sealed in Maryland, and what to do instead if it can't.
Short answer: DUI and DWI convictions are not on the list of expungeable convictions. A probation before judgment (PBJ) for DUI or DWI can be expunged, but not until 15 years after discharge from probation, and not if the person had another conviction (other than a minor traffic violation) or another… Md. Code, Crim. Proc. §§ 10-105(c)(2)(ii), (e)(4)(ii); 10-110(a)
| DUI / DWI convictions | DUI and DWI convictions are not on the list of expungeable convictions. A probation before judgment (PBJ) for DUI or DWI can be expunged, but not until 15 years after discharge from probation, and not if the person had another conviction (other than a minor traffic violation) or another DUI/DWI PBJ within 15 years after the PBJ. |
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| How to apply | File a Petition for Expungement of Records in the court where the case began (or the court it was transferred to). Use CC-DC-CR-072A for acquittal, dismissal, PBJ, nolle prosequi, stet or not criminally responsible; CC-DC-CR-072C to speed up an automatic expungement; and CC-DC-CR-072B or CC-DC-CR-072D for guilty dispositions. The court serves the State's Attorney (and, for convictions, sends notice to listed victims). If no one objects within 30 days, the court orders expungement. If someone objects, the court holds a hearing. Agencies have 60 days to confirm they have complied. Shielding is requested on form CC-DC-CR-148, and each person may get only one shielding petition granted in a lifetime. The Judiciary offers an online Guide and File interview for expungement petitions. |
Where to get help in Maryland
More Maryland expungement & criminal records
- Getting a Copy of Your Maryland Criminal Record
- Expunging or Sealing a Felony in Maryland
- How to File for Expungement in Maryland
- Sealing or Expunging Juvenile Records in Maryland
- All Maryland expungement & criminal records rules
FAQ
Can a DUI be expunged in Maryland?
DUI and DWI convictions are not on the list of expungeable convictions. A probation before judgment (PBJ) for DUI or DWI can be expunged, but not until 15 years after discharge from probation, and not if the person had another conviction (other than a minor traffic violation) or another DUI/DWI PBJ within 15 years after the PBJ.
How do you file for expungement in Maryland?
File a Petition for Expungement of Records in the court where the case began (or the court it was transferred to). Use CC-DC-CR-072A for acquittal, dismissal, PBJ, nolle prosequi, stet or not criminally responsible; CC-DC-CR-072C to speed up an automatic expungement; and CC-DC-CR-072B or CC-DC-CR-072D for guilty dispositions. The court serves the State's Attorney (and, for convictions, sends notice to listed victims). If no one objects within 30 days, the court orders expungement. If someone objects, the court holds a hearing. Agencies have 60 days to confirm they have complied. Shielding is requested on form CC-DC-CR-148, and each person may get only one shielding petition granted in a lifetime.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.