Oregon Expungement & Record Sealing Guide

Who Qualifies for Expungement in Oregon?

Oregon calls its process a "set aside" rather than expungement, but the practical effect is similar — the conviction is dismissed and the arrest record sealed. Oregon also passed automatic set asides for some cases in 2022.

Who Qualifies (Petition-Based)

• Class B and C misdemeanor convictions: 1 year after sentence completion
• Class A misdemeanor convictions: 3 years after sentence completion
• Class C felony convictions: 3 years after sentence completion
• Dismissed charges / acquittals: Immediately
• No new convictions during the waiting period
• No pending charges

Not Eligible

• Class A and B felonies
• Sex crimes (most)
• Crimes against children
• Driving offenses (most)
• More than one felony conviction on your record
• More than two total convictions (combined misdemeanors and felonies)

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

1. Obtain your record — Request from Oregon State Police (OSP) via the Oregon CJIS background check portal.
2. File the motion — File a Motion to Set Aside Conviction in the court of conviction. Filing fee: $281 (waivable for indigent petitioners).
3. DA notification — The District Attorney is notified and has the opportunity to object.
4. Hearing — A hearing is typically held, especially if the DA objects. Bring evidence of rehabilitation.
5. Order issued — If granted, the court dismisses the conviction and orders OSP to seal the arrest record.

Waiting Periods

• Dismissed / acquitted: Immediate
• Class B/C misdemeanor: 1 year from sentence completion
• Class A misdemeanor / Class C felony: 3 years from sentence completion

Costs

• Filing fee: $281 (fee waiver available)
• OSP record request: ~$33
• Attorney fees: $750–$2,500

Oregon Law Center and other legal aid organizations offer free set-aside assistance. Visit oregonlawhelp.org.

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

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