Expungement in Idaho
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Idaho allows expungement of misdemeanors and some felonies, but timing depends heavily on offense type and sentence outcome.
How Idaho treats Expungement
Idaho permits expungement under Idaho Code § 19-5301 et seq., with eligibility varying by conviction level and whether the defendant completed probation successfully. Misdemeanors generally become eligible sooner than felonies. Violent crimes, sex offenses, and crimes against children face significant barriers or permanent ineligibility. After expungement, records are sealed and you may legally deny the conviction occurred, except in limited contexts like law enforcement background checks.
The general definition of Expungement
A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.
Expungement allows you to have a criminal conviction removed from your official record, as if it never happened. Once expunged, you can legally say you were never convicted of that crime in most situations. Not all convictions qualify—eligibility depends on the crime, how much time has passed, and your state's laws. This gives people a fresh start and removes barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities.
Read the full Expungement entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Idaho.