Seal Your Illinois
Criminal Record
Record sealing hides your criminal history from employers, landlords, and the public — even when expungement isn't available. Illinois has broad sealing eligibility covering most misdemeanors and many felonies.
Broader
Eligibility vs. Expungement
3–9 Mo
Typical Timeline
Free
Eligibility Check
Free Sealing Consultation
Licensed Illinois attorneys · Response within 24 hours
Illinois Eligibility Chart
Quick reference for expungement and sealing eligibility by offense type.
| Offense Type | Expunge | Seal | Wait Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arrest without conviction | None | ||
| Acquittal (not guilty) | None | ||
| Supervision (completed) | 2 years | ||
| Class A Misdemeanor conviction | 3 years | ||
| Class B/C Misdemeanor conviction | 3 years | ||
| Class 4 Felony (non-violent) | 3 years | ||
| Class 3 Felony (select offenses) | 3 years | ||
| Cannabis conviction (CRTA) | Varies | ||
| DUI conviction | N/A | ||
| Sex offense (registration required) | N/A | ||
| Domestic battery conviction | N/A | ||
| Murder / homicide | N/A |
This chart is a general guide. Eligibility depends on your full record, prior petitions, and other factors. An attorney review is recommended.
Step-by-Step: How to Seal Your Record
The complete Illinois record sealing process from start to finish.
Obtain Your Criminal History
1–2 weeksRequest your Illinois State Police criminal history report (ISP-6-401). This is the official record used in the petition. Cost: $16. Available online at isp.illinois.gov.
Determine Eligibility
1–3 daysReview each charge against the eligibility criteria. Some charges on the same record may be eligible while others are not. An attorney can identify all eligible charges.
Prepare the Petition
1–2 weeksComplete the Petition to Seal or Expunge (form available from the circuit court clerk). Must include case numbers, charges, disposition dates, and sentencing information.
File with the Circuit Court
1 dayFile the petition with the circuit court clerk in the county where the arrest occurred. Pay the filing fee ($120–$200). The clerk stamps and dockets the petition.
Serve All Required Agencies
2–4 weeksServe copies on the State's Attorney, arresting agency, Illinois State Police, and any other agencies listed on your record. Proof of service must be filed.
Objection Period
60 daysAgencies have 60 days to object. If no objection is filed, the court typically grants the petition. If objected, a hearing is scheduled.
Court Order
2–4 weeksThe judge signs the order granting expungement or sealing. Certified copies are sent to all agencies to update or destroy records.
Record Updated
30–60 daysAgencies update their databases. Illinois State Police typically processes within 60 days of receiving the order. Background checks should no longer show the record.
County-by-County Filing Guide
Timelines, fees, and courthouse info for Illinois's largest counties.
Cook County
1st Judicial Circuit
Typical Timeline
6–9 months
Filing Fee
$120
Highest volume in state. File at Richard J. Daley Center (Chicago) or Rolling Meadows Courthouse.
Common Mistakes That Delay or Deny Petitions
Wrong court
File in the county where the arrest occurred, not where you live now.
Missing charges
Include ALL charges from the arrest, even dismissed ones.
Incomplete service
Serve every agency listed on your ISP criminal history report.
Wrong waiting period
Confirm sentence completion date — probation end date, not conviction date.
Prior petition
A prior denied petition may affect eligibility. Disclose all prior filings.
Pending charges
You cannot seal a record while other charges are pending.
Ready to Seal Your Record?
Get a free consultation with a licensed Illinois record sealing attorney. They'll review your full record and tell you exactly what's possible.