Can DUI be expunged in Ohio?

Asked by: Stella Balistreri  |  Last update: November 18, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (60 votes)

Ohio law specifically prohibits the expungement of a DUI or OVI. The law also prohibits you from having any type of traffic offense expunged. The only way you can clear these matters from your criminal record is to have them overturned in court.

Can you get a DUI removed from your record in Ohio?

DUI Convictions Create a Permanent Record in Ohio. In Ohio, DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) convictions are serious offenses with lasting consequences. Under Ohio law, DUI convictions, including a first-time offense, cannot be expunged from a person's criminal record.

How long does a DUI in Ohio stay on your record?

A lot of folks are under the misconception that a DUI conviction drops off your record after two years. That's not entirely true. The points, which for a DUI conviction is six points in Ohio, the points drop off after two years; however, the conviction itself remains on your record forever.

Does Ohio have a clean slate program?

What is the Clean Slate Law in Ohio? Effective April 4, 2023, Senate Bill 288 was codified. This created significant changes in the sealing and expunging of criminal records in Ohio. This includes conviction records, not-guilty findings, bail forfeitures, and dismissed charges.

What crimes cannot be expunged in Ohio?

Which Criminal Records Cannot Be Expunged and Sealed in Ohio?
  • Any first- or second-degree felony,
  • Any violent crime,
  • DUI/OVI,
  • Sexual battery,
  • Rape,
  • Sexual imposition,
  • Gross sexual imposition,
  • Domestic Violence,

Can I Get A DUI Expunged In Ohio?

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Can I get my gun rights back in Ohio?

The Ohio Revised Code details the process to re-acquire firearm rights. You can petition the Court to have your rights restored, and must demonstrate to the Court that you meet the requirements to have your rights restored. This restoration of firearm rights is not extended to all convictions.

Should I put DUI on my job application?

In California, for instance, you are not legally obligated to disclose a DUI conviction on a job application unless the application explicitly asks about criminal convictions or arrests.

How long does DUI stay on record in the USA?

In most states, a DUI conviction will stay on your criminal record for a minimum of five to ten years. This means that during this time, the offense will be visible to anyone who conducts a background check on you, including potential employers, landlords, and insurance companies.

Is my life over after the first DUI?

Although DUIs do come with plenty of penalties in both the short, and long-term, it's important to understand that you can still live a complete, thriving life though not without its difficulties. Here are some tips to help you better get on with your life and move on after a DUI.

Will a DUI show up on a background check in Ohio?

Because a DUI stays on both a criminal and driving record indefinitely without the opportunity for expungement, it is important that drivers understand that once they are convicted, the record is permanent and may have long-lasting negative impacts on their lives in various ways.

What will a first-time DUI conviction result in Ohio?

Depending on the circumstances surrounding the arrest, different penalties apply for a first-time DUI offense in Ohio. A driver faces up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and a license suspension of up to one year if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is between 0.08% and 0.17%.

How do you get a DUI dismissed in Ohio?

The defenses to secure an Ohio OVI dismissal or not-guilty verdict usually take a few forms. For example, your lawyer can attack the prosecution's evidence, leaving the charges without factual support. A defense attorney can also introduce exculpatory or mitigating evidence that explains away the prosecutor's case.

Can you expunge driving record in Ohio?

Yes, if the case circumstances fit into an exception to the general rule that traffic convictions are not eligible for expungement and sealing in Ohio.

Can you get a DUI reduced in Ohio?

Facing DUI charges can be intimidating and overwhelming, but there are options to consider. In Ohio, DUI charges sometimes can be reduced to reckless driving charges. This could be one way to avoid jail time and fines associated with a DUI conviction.

How long does a DUI stay on your record in Ohio?

Unfortunately, Ohio law does not allow DUI/OVI convictions to be expunged or sealed. This means that once convicted, a DUI/OVI will remain a matter of public record permanently.

How long will DUI show up on background check?

This record is maintained by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Criminal Record: While the DUI conviction remains on your driving record for 10 years, the arrest and charge information may appear on your criminal record indefinitely, unless you take legal action to have it expunged or sealed.

Can you leave the country with a DUI on your record?

You may face travel restrictions if you have been convicted of a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) offense. A DUI conviction is a serious offense in many countries and may lead to legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or license suspension.

Do jobs look at DUIs?

In California, many employers maintain rigid standards regarding criminal convictions, including DUIs. Such a conviction can result in swift dismissal or a strong reluctance to retain the employee.

Should I say anything about my DUI during an interview process?

You are a strong, qualified candidate regardless of your DUI. Remember; however, DO NOT talk about the DUI unless you are asked about it. Remember, it is the past and you have moved on from that silly mistake; therefore it is not something you worry or even think about.

How long after a DUI can you drive for a company?

CDL Suspensions After a DUI in California

Both state and federal laws regulate your CDL. Under these laws, your commercial driving privileges will be: Suspended for a year for a first DUI. Revoked for life for a second DUI.

How far back does a gun background check go in Ohio?

How far back do background checks in Ohio go? There are generally no Ohio state laws restricting how far a background check can go.

What disqualifies you from owning a gun in Ohio?

The following individuals are barred from owning or controlling guns in Ohio: Fugitives from justice or those with an outstanding arrest warrant. Anyone convicted of or indicted for a felony-level violent crime. Anyone convicted of or indicted for a felony drug offense.

Does Ohio have a gun buyback program?

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Columbus is hosting a gun buyback where citizens can anonymously trade in firearms in exchange for cash gift cards of up to $750, but not all firearms qualify for payment.