📅 2026 Update: Changes in Utah's Expungement Laws

Since the original article was written, there have been significant updates to Utah’s expungement laws. These changes affect how individuals can have their criminal records cleared and what fees they may face. The earlier article continues further down the page, providing a foundation on this topic.

📜 Automatic Expungement Pause

From October 1, 2024, to January 1, 2026, automatic expungements are paused. During this time, individuals must submit a request form to the court to seek expungement, even for cases that would typically qualify automatically.

💵 Current Fees and Costs

Starting October 1, 2026, the Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) charges a $65 fee for expungement applications. Additionally, some courts, like Murray City, charge a $135 filing fee for expungement petitions and a $2 fee for court-provided forms. Fingerprinting services cost $20 for 10-finger print cards, with additional cards priced at $1 each.

📄 Forms and Steps for Application

Individuals must complete specific forms to expunge their criminal history. The "Application for Expungement of Adult Criminal History" must be submitted to BCI. If an individual wants to release their criminal history to a third party, they need to fill out the "Third Party Release" form.

⏳ Processing Times

BCI processes applications on a first-come, first-served basis. Due to high volumes, applicants may wait 1 to 2 months for a response. Court processing times can also vary; contacting the specific court can provide more accurate timelines.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • Automatic expungements are paused until January 1, 2026.
  • The application fee is now $65, with court fees also applicable.
  • Specific forms are needed for processing expungements.
  • BCI may take up to 2 months to respond to applications.

💡 Tips for Navigating Utah's Expungement Process

It is essential to discuss your individual situation with an attorney.

📋 Understand Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, know if your case qualifies for expungement. Cases resulting in acquittal or dismissal with prejudice may be eligible, but others, like those involving violent felonies, are not.

📝 Gather Required Documents

Ensure you have all necessary documents ready. This includes the "Application for Expungement of Adult Criminal History" and any other required forms, such as the "Third Party Release" form if applicable.

⏳ Plan for Processing Times

Be prepared for potential delays. BCI’s processing can take 1 to 2 months, and court processing times may vary. It's wise to start your application early.

💵 Budget for Costs

Factor in the costs associated with expungement. Besides the $65 application fee, there may be additional costs for court filings and fingerprinting services.

📞 Utilize Available Resources

Take advantage of free resources. The Utah Legal Services and the Utah Courts Self-Help Center provide guidance and forms that can help you navigate the process effectively.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❔ What is automatic expungement?

Automatic expungement allows certain criminal records to be cleared without a formal request. However, this process is paused until January 1, 2026.

❓ How do I know if I’m eligible for expungement?

Eligibility typically requires that no criminal proceedings are pending and that you are not currently incarcerated or on probation. Specific offenses, such as violent felonies, are also ineligible.

❓ What forms do I need for the expungement application?

You will need the "Application for Expungement of Adult Criminal History" form and may need the "Third Party Release" form if applicable.

❓ How long does the expungement process take?

The Bureau of Criminal Identification may take up to 1-2 months to respond to your application. Court processing times may vary further.

❓ Can I waive the expungement fees?

If you cannot afford the fees, you can file a "Motion and Order to Waive Expungement Fees" with your court to request a waiver.

❓ Where can I find help for my expungement case?

You can access assistance from organizations like Utah Legal Services or the Utah Courts Self-Help Center, which offer guidance and resources for navigating the expungement process.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to Expungement

Recent court rulings have clarified aspects of Utah's expungement laws. These decisions impact how individuals can pursue record clearing and what requirements they must meet.

For more information, please check more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Expunged records in Utah are sealed and blocked from public viewing. Someone whose record has been expunged can legally deny any involvement in criminal activity relating to the expunged record. Certain circumstances may require someone to admit to involvement in an action pertaining to the expunged record, such as in a court proceeding. Expunged records do not disappear under Utah expungement laws. The Criminal Investigations and Technical Services Division permanently keeps all index references, arrests and convictions on file. This information kept on file is not accessible to the public if it has been expunged.

Despite a Utah expungement, a record may be accessed and used concerning :

         Future sentencing.


Utah Expungement Laws

         A firearms application.


         A parole board.


         State and professional licensing boards.


         Education boards



Who is Eligible for a Utah Expungement?



Adults seeking expungement must meet the following requirements: 

         At least thirty days have passes since an arrest.


         There have been no additional arrests since the original arrest.


         All charges have been dropped.


         No charges have been filed within thirty days of being discharged.


         No formal charges were filed upon release.

A person may file a petition to apply for expungement if:

         They have no more than one felony or two Class A or B misdemeanor convictions.


         The petitioner has been released from prison, probation or parole upon completion of those sentences.


         All fines or restitution have been paid to the court or victim involved.


A person seeking a Utah expungement must receive the petition from the Eligibility for Expungment from the Utah State Bureau of Criminal Identification. Utah expungement laws may give the Utah State Bureau of Criminal Identification the right to deny someone a petition if the petitioner committed a:


         Capital felony.


         First degree murder.


         Second degree forcible felony.


         Automobile homicide.


         Sexual act against a minor.


         Crime in another State that was expunged but would be a felony in Utah.



Juveniles may seek Expungement if:

        * The juvenile has reached age 18.


        * One full year has passed since the juvenile has been released from the jurisdiction of the juvenile system.

Time Restrictions under Utah Expungement Laws

In order to apply for a Utah expungement, a person's sentence must be complete including probation. All fines must be paid. The amount of time that must pass before an expungement petition can be granted is:


         Seven years after a felony charge.


         Ten years after a misdemeanor conviction or felony conviction.


         Five years after a Class A misdemeanor charge.


         Three years under any other misdemeanor charge.


         Six years if there are multiple Class C misdemeanors.


         Twelve years if there are multiple Class B misdemeanors.


         Fifteen years if there are multiple Class A misdemeanors.

Process for petitions under Utah Expungement Laws:



* Filing and completion of petition.


* Must serve the petition to the Department of Corrections and prosecuting attorney.


* The court may require a written evaluation from the Department of Corrections.


*A hearing will take place regarding the petition. The prosecuting attorney and written evaluation may  

play a  role in the hearing.


* The court will then decide if the person should be granted a Utah expungement of records.