Nevada Expungement & Record Sealing Guide

Who Qualifies for Expungement in Nevada?

Nevada uses "sealing" rather than expungement. Sealed records are hidden from most employers and landlords, though law enforcement retains access.

Who Qualifies

• Dismissed charges / acquittals: No waiting period
• Misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor convictions: 2 years from case close
• Category E felony convictions: 2 years from case close
• Category C and D felony convictions: 5 years from case close
• Category A and B felony convictions: 10 years from case close (limited eligibility)
• No pending charges; no new convictions during waiting period

Not Eligible

• Sexual offenses (most)
• Crimes against children
• DUI causing death or substantial bodily harm
• Felony DUI (third or subsequent offense)
• Home invasion

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

1. Obtain Nevada criminal history — Request from Nevada DPS Records and Technology Division.
2. File the petition — In the court where the case was filed (Justice Court for misdemeanors; District Court for felonies). Include a verified petition with all case details.
3. Serve all agencies — Nevada law requires serving all criminal justice agencies that received records of the arrest and proceedings.
4. Review period — Agencies have 30 days to respond or object.
5. Hearing — The court holds a hearing. If no objections and eligibility is clear, the hearing is typically brief.
6. Order issued — All agencies must seal records within the timeframe specified.

Waiting Periods

• Dismissed / acquitted: Immediate
• Misdemeanor / gross misdemeanor / Category E felony: 2 years from case close
• Category C/D felony: 5 years from case close
• Category A/B felony: 10 years from case close

Costs

• Filing fee: $100–$260 (varies by court and offense level)
• Attorney fees: $750–$2,500

Nevada Legal Services provides free assistance at nlslaw.net.

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

After a successful expungement or sealing in Nevada, 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 Nevada for advice specific to your situation.