Iowa Expungement & Record Sealing Guide

Who Qualifies for Expungement in Iowa?

Iowa expanded its expungement law significantly in 2023 (SF 2340) to include misdemeanor convictions for the first time. Previously, expungement was limited to deferred judgments and non-convictions.

Non-Conviction Records (Dismissed / Acquitted)

• Eligible after 180 days following dismissal or acquittal
• No waiting period if charges were not filed within the statute of limitations

Deferred Judgment Completions

• Eligible upon successful completion and discharge — no waiting period
• Iowa courts frequently grant deferred judgments to first-time offenders

Misdemeanor Convictions (2023 Law)

• Simple misdemeanor: 3 years from sentence discharge
• Serious or aggravated misdemeanor: 8 years from sentence discharge
• No new convictions (beyond simple misdemeanors) during the waiting period
• All fines and fees paid

Not Eligible

• Felony convictions (no felony expungement in Iowa)
• Sex offenses
• OWI (operating while intoxicated) convictions
• Domestic abuse assault convictions

Step-by-Step: How to Clear Your Record in Iowa

1. Obtain your Iowa criminal record — From Iowa DPS/Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI).
2. File the application — With the clerk of the district court where the case was filed. Filing fee: $100.
3. County attorney review — Has 30 days to object.
4. Hearing (if objected) — Scheduled by the court.
5. Order issued — DCI and all agencies update or seal records.

Waiting Periods

• Dismissed / acquitted: 180 days
• Deferred judgment completion: No waiting period
• Simple misdemeanor: 3 years from discharge
• Serious / aggravated misdemeanor: 8 years from discharge

Costs

• Filing fee: $100
• Attorney fees: $500–$2,000

Iowa Legal Aid offers free assistance at iowalegalaid.org.

What Record Clearing Does (and Doesn't) Do in Iowa

After a successful expungement or sealing in Iowa, your record will generally be cleared from:

• Most private employer background checks
• Rental housing background checks
• Most licensing board inquiries (varies by profession)

However, it typically does not affect:

• Federal law enforcement and immigration records
• Military background checks
• Applications for law enforcement positions
• Some professional licensing boards (law, medicine, teaching — varies by state)
• Sex offender registry requirements (in most cases)

Disclaimer: This information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Consult a licensed attorney in Iowa for advice specific to your situation.