Reviewed September 28, 2026 against New York court and Attorney General resources.

New York criminal record sealing

New York has different routes for different records. A sealed conviction is generally hidden from public searches, but specified agencies can still access it. This guide describes the process; it cannot tell you whether your case qualifies.

Clean Slate: automatic sealing is still rolling out

New York's Clean Slate Act took effect November 16, 2024. The court system says it has until November 16, 2027 to implement automatic sealing of eligible convictions. The usual waiting period is three years after sentencing or release from incarceration for misdemeanors, and eight years for felonies, whichever is later. Pending cases and supervision can affect timing, and some offenses are excluded. Do not assume a record is sealed merely because the waiting period has passed.

New York Courts: Clean Slate status and frequently asked questions

CPL 160.59: a court application for some older convictions

A separate court process under CPL 160.59 may allow sealing after at least ten years from conviction or release. The court's guide describes a general limit of two convictions, with no more than one felony, and excludes several serious categories. A judge decides whether to grant the application.

1. Request a certificate of disposition for each case from the court.
2. Use the court's sealing application instructions and collect any supporting material.
3. Serve the district attorney and file the required application and proof of service with the appropriate court.

The court's instructions, forms and county-specific directions control, not this summary. New York Courts: CPL 160.59 application and forms

Before you rely on a screening result

RecordReset offers an informational New York screener, not a New York petition workbook or a filing service. For a full criminal-history check, immigration consequences, disputed eligibility or legal advice, contact a licensed New York attorney. The Attorney General's record-sealing guide describes other routes and exceptions.

New York record-clearing law is primarily under N.Y. Crim. Proc. Law §§ 160.50, 160.55, 160.59, and 720.35, plus the Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (2021). The information here is a summary and not a substitute for review by a licensed New York attorney.