Can police see expunged records in Florida?
Asked by: Loy Miller III | Last update: August 8, 2025Score: 5/5 (47 votes)
In Florida, expunged records are generally inaccessible to the public. However, certain entities, such as law enforcement agencies, criminal justice agencies, and some state licensing boards, can still view them.
Who can see my expunged record in Florida?
If you are seeking to be employed or licensed by the Department of Children and Family Services, the Agency for Health Care Administration, the Agency for Persons with Disabilities, or the Department of Juvenile Justice, or you wish to work with children, the elderly, or disabled people (mentally or physically), those ...
Will an expunged record show up on a background check in Florida?
In most cases, sealed or expunged records do not appear. However, under certain circumstances, sealed records can be accessed, especially if you're applying for sensitive roles, such as jobs in national security or childcare.
Can local police see expunged records?
Courts, law enforcement, prosecutors, and other criminal justice agencies can access expunged records for future criminal investigations and charging and sentencing decisions.
How long does it take for your record to clear after expungement in Florida?
On average, an expungement in Florida takes 5-7 months.
Expungement and Sealing of Criminal Records in Florida
Will an expunged record show up on a federal background check?
A Level 2 FBI Background Check
A Level 2 check will even uncover those sealed or expunged records – especially if they involve the mistreatment of children, the elderly, or the disabled.
How much does it cost to get something expunged off your record in Florida?
An expungement in Florida typically costs around $995, but can vary depending on attorney fees and the complexity of your case.
What agencies can see expunged records?
- Criminal justice agencies (court administrative jobs, positions with juvenile court or state prisons, police officer jobs)
- Human service agencies (social work positions, probation officer positions, counselors)
- Department of Education (working in a public school)
Can a cop look up your record?
Yes, absolutely! They can find out if there are any unpaid tickets, any other driving infractions, suspensions, criminal history, parole or probation status if applicable, and any outstanding warrants out for your arrest.
Can a judge see an expunged record?
If you are arrested again for another crime, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and the criminal court may still be able to see your expunged records. The court can use your prior conviction against you as allowed by state and federal law.
What records Cannot be expunged in Florida?
- Arson.
- Aggravated Assault.
- Aggravated Battery.
- Illegal use of explosives.
- Child abuse or Aggravated Child Abuse.
How far back does Florida background check go?
Generally, there are no state laws in Florida that regulate how far back a pre-employment background check can go. This means that some screenings can look indefinitely into someone's history—including criminal records.
Do level 2 background checks show expunged records?
In California, specific labor codes, such as under the California Labor Code 437.2 (c), prevent employers from considering expunged convictions during the hiring application process.
Do expunged records show up on fingerprinting in Florida?
Yes – your fingerprints will still be on file at both the state and federal levels. That's because fingerprints are physical records, and expungements do not destroy them. At the state level, your fingerprints won't be connected to your expunged case, but they could still be used to identify you.
Can I buy a gun with a sealed record in Florida?
Sealed Records Only
It's essential to note that while sealed records carry additional disclosure requirements, they do not automatically preclude individuals from purchasing firearms or obtaining a concealed carry permit in Florida.
How do you check if record is expunged?
The best way to find out if this has happened is to go to the Court where your case was at and ask to see the documents.
What information do cops have access to?
The main information provided is your license plate number, which allows them to access the vehicle's registration details and owner information. They also have access to criminal databases, allowing them to check if the vehicle is stolen or the owner has a criminal record.
Can the police see my history?
Law enforcement agencies can monitor your internet activity by obtaining access to your browsing history. This includes websites visited, searches made, and even the content you interact with.
What to say when a cop asks you where you are going?
You have the right to remain silent. For example, you do not have to answer any questions about where you are going, where you are traveling from, what you are doing, or where you live. If you wish to exercise your right to remain silent, say so out loud.
Who has access to expunged records in Florida?
In Florida, expunged records are generally inaccessible to the public. However, certain entities, such as law enforcement agencies, criminal justice agencies, and some state licensing boards, can still view them.
Can the FBI see my expunged record?
Even records that have been expunged or sealed can show up as an arrest only—with no additional information. An FBI search works differently. The FBI does not dig deeper or search other databases to help supplement incomplete information. They rely solely on the state.
Do expunged records show up on nics?
The NCIS database can only see records submitted to it by other law enforcement agencies and state courts. The existence of some sealed records may not have been made available to NICS and, therefore, would not show up on the background check. This may have been what happened when you ran your own background check.
Do I have to disclose an expunged record in Florida?
If the disclosure is for a security clearance (Secret, Top Secret, etc,) then you are required to disclose under penalty of perjury. Pro tip- If your expungement has been granted, that will seal it at the courthouse but the public arrest record may still be available at the jail you were booked at.
What is the benefit of expungement in Florida?
Having your record sealed or expunged means that your criminal record will either be destroyed or removed from public access, making it confidential to the public, future employers, and common background searches, with certain limitations.
What Cannot be expunged in Florida?
Remember, while many felonies might be eligible, certain serious crimes, like murder, sexual battery, and child abuse, cannot be expunged.