California: record clearing rules
Whether your state clears criminal records automatically, and how long you must wait before you can clear a misdemeanor or felony conviction.
From a statute-cited table| Automatic (clean slate) clearing | Yes; the state grants qualifying relief without a petition |
|---|---|
| Waiting period for a misdemeanor | About 1 year after judgment (petition), or once probation ends |
| Waiting period for a felony | Automatic after 4 felony-free years past supervision; by petition 1-2 years after completion |
| Law | Penal Code 1203.4, 1203.425 |
Waiting periods usually start when the whole sentence (jail, probation, fines, restitution) is finished, and a new conviction can restart the clock. Violent, sex and some traffic offenses are often excluded.
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in California.
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How we checked this
Waiting periods come from a statute-cited 50-state survey of adult conviction relief updated in 2026, compared with the Collateral Consequences Resource Center's 50-state categories. Rules often have exceptions for violent, sex and traffic offenses. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site From a statute-cited table one detailed source Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.