How do I expunge a criminal record in Texas?

Texas record relief is narrower than most states. There is no general expungement of convictions.

1. Expunction — Tex. Code Crim. Proc. Ch. 55

Available only if:

You were arrested but never charged (after the relevant statute of limitations or 180 days);

Charges were dismissed without probation;

You were acquitted at trial; or

You completed Class C misdemeanor deferred adjudication.

Effect: complete destruction of records — you may legally deny the arrest occurred.

2. Order of Nondisclosure — Tex. Gov. Code Ch. 411

Available after successful completion of deferred adjudication community supervision for many offenses (§ 411.072 - § 411.0775).

Automatic nondisclosure for first-time, low-level misdemeanors completed after Sept. 1, 2017 (§ 411.072), if no other convictions.

Petition required for most felony deferred-adjudication completions.

Waiting period: typically 2 years (misdemeanors involving family violence, weapons, assault) or 5 years (most felonies).

Effect: record sealed from public view but accessible to law enforcement, licensing agencies, and certain employers.

3. Excluded Offenses

Murder, capital murder, aggravated kidnapping, sexual offenses requiring registration, family violence offenses (for some types), and many others under § 411.074.

4. Filing Procedure

File petition in convicting court. Filing fee approximately $280-$300.

DPS and prosecuting agency may contest. Hearing within 30 days.

This is legal information, not legal advice.