Recently updated on March 27th, 2026 at 10:39 pm
Prepare Your Documents for Record Restriction (Expungement) in Georgia
This website helps you prepare the forms required to request record restriction (commonly called expungement) in Georgia.
An overview of cases at is here
HOW IT WORKS
1. Take Screening
Start with an online screening tool to determine whether your case may qualify for record restriction in Georgia. The screening will ask questions about your arrest, the outcome of your case, and your criminal history to help determine eligibility.
2. Prepare Documents
Instead of filling out complex legal forms on your own, our system will guide you through the process by asking simple questions in plain language. Based on your answers, the system will automatically generate the required forms and place your responses in the correct sections.
3. Consult Advocate (Optional)
You may choose to consult a legal advocate or attorney for guidance when requesting record restriction in Georgia. An advocate can help review your case, explain your legal options, and ensure that your application is properly completed before submission.
4. File with the Clerk
Depending on the outcome of your case, you may need to submit your Request to Restrict Arrest Record through a law enforcement agency or directly through the prosecutor’s office. Some applications are processed through the Georgia Crime Information Center after approval.
Process
Step 1
Check If You May Qualify
Before starting your application, confirm whether your case may be eligible.
You may qualify if your case resulted in:
- Dismissal or nolle prosequi (charges dropped)
- Not guilty verdict
- No conviction in certain eligible misdemeanor cases
- Other legally qualifying outcomes under Georgia law
You may NOT qualify if:
- You have disqualifying convictions on your record
- Your case is still pending
- Your case does not meet statutory eligibility requirements
Step 2
You: Gather Required Information
You will need the following documents and details:
1. Final Case Disposition
Official court record showing how your case ended (dismissal, acquittal, etc.)
→ Obtain from the Clerk of Court.
2. Arrest and Case Details
- Date of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Charges filed
- Court location
3. Criminal History Record (if required)
A copy of your Georgia criminal history may be requested for verification.
4. Request Form
Request to Restrict Arrest Record form (or prosecutor-provided form depending on your case)
5. Government ID
Valid photo identification (driver’s license or state ID)
6. Fees (if applicable)
- Arresting agency fee (may be up to $50)
- GCIC processing fee (if required after approval)
Step 3
Determine Your Filing Path
Your submission process depends on your arrest date:
If your arrest was BEFORE July 1, 2013:
- Submit your request to the arresting law enforcement agency
If your arrest was ON or AFTER July 1, 2013:
- Submit your request to the prosecuting attorney’s office
(District Attorney, Solicitor-General, or Attorney General)
Step 4
You: Take Online Screening
You will complete an online screening to determine eligibility and generate your application packet.
You will provide:
- Arrest details
- Case outcome
- Personal information
- Supporting documents
The system will automatically prepare your forms based on your responses.
Step 5
Submit Your Request
Submit your completed application to the appropriate authority:
- Arresting agency OR
- Prosecuting attorney’s office OR
- Clerk of Court (if required for supporting processing)
Your request will be reviewed under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 35-3-37).
Step 6
Agency Review & Decision
The reviewing authority will determine whether your record qualifies for restriction by verifying:
- Case outcome
- Eligibility under Georgia law
- Any disqualifying convictions
If APPROVED:
Your application is forwarded for state processing.
If DENIED:
You have the right to appeal the decision in the Superior Court of the county within 30 days.
Step 7
GCIC Processing (State-Level Update)
Approved requests are sent to the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC).
Processing Path A (Automatic):
- Prosecutor submits directly to GCIC
Processing Path B (User Submission Required):
If the prosecutor does not submit directly:
- You must mail the approved application and fee to GCIC
Mailing Address:
Georgia Crime Information Center Record Restrictions
P.O. Box 370808
Decatur, GA 30037-0808
Payments must be made via:
- Money order or certified check payable to “Georgia Bureau of Investigation”
Processing typically takes 2–3 weeks.
Step 8
Confirmation of Record Restriction
Once processed:
- Your arrest record will be restricted from public access
- It will no longer appear in most background checks
You will receive a confirmation letter.
Keep this document for your records.
Step 9
Final Outcome
You may request:
- Updated criminal history report
- Confirmation from GCIC or processing agency
FAQs
Court Forms Created This website guides you through the information needed to prepare your record restriction application.
Core Forms
- Request to Restrict Arrest Record