Illinois Expungement & Sealing: Where to Start
Before you file to clear your record, get an Access & Review to see exactly what’s on it
Clearing an old arrest or conviction from your Illinois record can open doors to jobs, housing, and licensing. Two legal tools make that possible — expungement and sealing — and both start with the same practical step: knowing exactly what’s on your record. This guide explains the difference, who may qualify, and why an Access & Review of your own criminal history is the smart first move.
Step 1 for most people: see your own record. Before you file anything, get an Access & Review — the full copy of your Illinois criminal history from the Illinois State Police. We can fingerprint you for it in Naperville.
Learn about Access & Review → or call/text 847-436-5222 to book.
Expungement vs. Sealing — what’s the difference?
Expungement removes eligible records entirely — they’re physically destroyed or returned to you, as if the arrest or case never happened. It’s generally available for arrests that didn’t lead to a conviction, and for certain supervision and diversion outcomes after a waiting period.
Sealing hides eligible records from most public view — they still exist but are not visible to most employers and landlords, with some exceptions (for example, certain employers required by law to see them). Many convictions that can’t be expunged may still be eligible to be sealed.
Who may qualify?
Eligibility depends on the specific offense, the outcome of the case, and how much time has passed. As a general guide:
- Arrests without conviction (dismissed, acquitted, or no charges filed) are often eligible for expungement.
- Court supervision and qualifying diversion programs may be expungeable after a waiting period.
- Many convictions that can’t be expunged may be eligible for sealing after a waiting period.
- Some offenses are not eligible — eligibility rules are specific and change over time.
Efficient Biometrics is a fingerprinting provider, not a law firm — we don’t determine eligibility or give legal advice. For help confirming what you qualify for, contact the Illinois Office of the State Appellate Defender’s expungement helpline at 1-866-787-1776 or consult an attorney.
Why start with an Access & Review?
Petitions to expunge or seal have to list your records accurately — case numbers, arrest dates, and dispositions. Memory and old paperwork are often incomplete. An Access & Review gives you the Illinois State Police’s full record of your own history, so you can confirm what’s actually on file and what may be eligible before you (or your attorney) prepare a petition.
An Access & Review is more complete than a UCIA conviction check — it also includes arrests and non-conviction information — which is why it’s the version most people want when clearing a record.
The typical path to clearing your record
Step 1 – Get your Access & Review
Call or text Efficient Biometrics at 847-436-5222 and come in to our Naperville location. Bring your valid, unexpired Driver’s license. We capture your fingerprints and submit the request; the Illinois State Police return your full criminal history report to you. See the Access & Review page for details.
Step 2 – Review what’s eligible
With your report in hand, confirm which items may be expunged or sealed. The Office of the State Appellate Defender helpline (1-866-787-1776) and expungement clinics can help, or work with an attorney.
Step 3 – File your petition
File the appropriate petition with the circuit court in the county where the record originated, pay any required filing fees (fee waivers may be available), and follow the court’s process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between expungement and sealing in Illinois?
Expungement removes eligible records entirely, as if they never happened. Sealing hides eligible records from most public view, though they still exist and certain authorized parties can see them. Many convictions that can’t be expunged may still be eligible to be sealed.
Why do I need an Access & Review before expungement?
A petition has to accurately list your records. An Access & Review gives you the Illinois State Police’s full copy of your own criminal history — including arrests and dispositions — so you can confirm what’s on file and what may be eligible before filing.
Does Efficient Biometrics decide if I qualify or file the petition?
No. We’re a fingerprinting provider, not a law firm. We fingerprint you for your Access & Review so you can see your record. For eligibility and filing help, contact the Illinois Office of the State Appellate Defender at 1-866-787-1776 or an attorney.
How do I get my Access & Review?
Call or text 847-436-5222 and come to our Naperville location with your valid, unexpired Driver’s license. We fingerprint you and submit the request to the Illinois State Police, who return your criminal history report to you.