Recently updated on April 21st, 2026 at 12:16 pm
Prepare Your Documents for Record Restriction (Expungement) in Georgia
This website helps you prepare the documents needed 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 asks questions about your arrest, case outcome, and criminal history to provide a preliminary assessment of your 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 the arresting law enforcement agency or, in some cases, through the court. After review and approval, the request is processed through the Georgia Crime Information Center.
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 (depending on the offense and outcome)
Your case is still pending
Your case resulted in a conviction that is not eligible for record restriction
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 (not always required but can be helpful)
4. Request Form
Request to Restrict Arrest Record form (usually submitted through the arresting agency; specific forms may vary depending on the 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)
Additional processing fees may apply depending on the agency or method of submission
Step 3
Determine Your Filing Path
Your submission process depends on your case details and, in some situations, 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:
In many cases, you will still submit your request through the arresting law enforcement agency, but eligibility may be determined by the prosecuting attorney’s office (District Attorney or Solicitor-General), depending on the case outcome
Step 4
You: Take Online Screening
You will complete an online screening to assess whether you may be eligible and generate your application packet.
You will provide:
- Arrest details
- Case outcome
- Personal information
- Supporting documents (if available)
The system will automatically generate the appropriate forms and instructions based on your responses.
Step 5
Submit Your Request
Submit your completed application to the appropriate authority:
- Arresting agency (most common) OR
- Court (in certain eligible cases, depending on the disposition)
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 to the Georgia Crime Information Center for processing.
If DENIED:
You may have the right to seek review of the decision in the Superior Court of the county, generally within 30 days, depending on the circumstances.
Step 7
GCIC Processing (State-Level Update)
Approved requests are sent to the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC).
Processing Path A (Automatic):
Approved requests are forwarded to GCIC by the arresting agency or reviewing authority
Processing Path B (User Submission Required):
In some cases, you may be required to submit 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 2–4 weeks, but may vary depending on volume.
Step 8
Confirmation of Record Restriction
Once processed:
- Your arrest record will be restricted from public access
- It will generally no longer appear in most background checks
You may receive a confirmation notice.
Keep this document for your records.
Step 9
Final Outcome
You may request:
- Updated criminal history report (to verify the restriction)
- Confirmation from the Georgia Crime Information Center or the 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