Sealing a criminal record in Nevada can open the door to a fresh start—restoring your civil rights, protecting your privacy, and helping you move forward without the weight of a past mistake.
But one of the most common questions people ask is: How long does it take to seal a record in Nevada?
The answer depends on your case, the type of offense, and how long it has been since your conviction, dismissal, or acquittal. This guide explains the full process, timelines, and legal requirements so you know what to expect when sealing your Nevada criminal history.
What Does It Mean to Seal a Record in Nevada?
Sealing a record does not erase your past—it makes your Nevada criminal history record invisible to the public. When a court orders the sealing of criminal records, law enforcement agencies, courts, and government databases are required to restrict access.
Once sealed:
- Your criminal record information will no longer appear in background checks.
- Employers, landlords, and most licensing boards cannot access your record.
- You are legally allowed to state that you have not been arrested or convicted, except in limited circumstances (such as applying for certain government jobs or professional licenses).
The Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 179.245) describe the procedures for sealing Nevada criminal history records and the specific waiting periods based on offense type.
Why Record Sealing Matters
A criminal conviction can impact nearly every aspect of your life—employment, housing, education, and even your right to vote or own a firearm. By obtaining a court order to seal your criminal record, you protect your privacy and reclaim your future.
For many Nevadans, sealing records can mean:
- Better job opportunities and fair background screenings
- Restored civil rights
- Reduced stigma in personal and professional life
- Eligibility for certain licenses or volunteer opportunities
How Long Does the Record Sealing Process Take?
The process to seal a record in Nevada generally takes between 6 to 12 months, depending on several factors:
- The county or court handling your petition (Clark County, Washoe, etc.)
- The completeness of your criminal history record
- Whether the District Attorney’s Office objects to your petition
- Court backlog and administrative processing times
However, before the process even begins, you must wait a legally mandated “waiting period” after your conviction, dismissal, or completion of probation.
The Waiting Period for Sealing Records in Nevada
Under Nevada Revised Statutes 179.245, the waiting period to request sealing depends on the severity of the offense.
| Type of Offense | Waiting Period After Case Closes |
| Category A Felony or Crime of Violence | Not eligible in most cases |
| Category B, C, or D Felony | 5 years |
| Category E Felony | 2 years |
| Gross Misdemeanor | 2 years |
| Misdemeanor DUI or Domestic Violence | 7 years |
| Other Misdemeanors | 1 year |
| Dismissed Charges or Acquittal | Immediately eligible |
The waiting period begins after you’ve completed your sentence, probation, or parole, and have no new arrests or convictions during that time.
Step-by-Step: How to Seal a Criminal Record in Nevada
Here’s a breakdown of how to request and complete the sealing of Nevada criminal records:
Step 1: Obtain Your Criminal History
Start by getting your Nevada criminal history record from the Nevada Department of Public Safety (DPS). This document lists all arrests, convictions, and case dispositions and is required in every record sealing petition.
Step 2: Identify Eligible Records
Review your record carefully. Not all offenses are eligible for sealing—sexual offenses, crimes against children, and felony DUI convictions are generally excluded.
Step 3: Prepare a Petition and Order
You must draft a Petition to Seal Records, an Order Sealing Records, and often a Declaration in Support. These documents must comply with Nevada Revised Statutes and local court rules.
Step 4: Submit to the District Attorney
Send your completed petition to the District Attorney’s Office in the county where your case occurred (for example, Clark County District Attorney). The DA reviews your case and can approve or oppose your request.
Step 5: Court Review
If approved, your petition is sent to a District Court judge or Municipal Court judge. If denied, you may revise and resubmit.
Step 6: Court Order and Distribution
Once the court grants your petition, it issues an Order Sealing Records. This order must be distributed to all relevant agencies—such as the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Nevada Department of Public Safety, and other local or federal entities that maintain your record.
How Long Each Step Typically Takes
| Step | Estimated Duration |
| Obtain criminal history | 3–6 weeks |
| Draft petition & DA review | 2–3 months |
| Court review & order issuance | 3–6 months |
| Agency compliance & confirmation | 1–2 months |
| Total Estimated Time | 6–12 months |
Keep in mind that complex cases, multiple jurisdictions, or objections from the DA can extend this timeline.
How Long Does It Take to Seal a Record in Clark County?
If your record is in Clark County (Las Vegas), expect the process to take roughly 8 to 12 months. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the Clark County District Attorney’s Office handle a large volume of record sealing requests, which can lead to administrative delays.
An experienced record sealing attorney in Las Vegas can help ensure your documents are accurate and complete, reducing processing time and avoiding rejections.
What Happens After Your Record Is Sealed
Once your record is sealed:
- The court clerk, law enforcement, and government agencies must remove public access.
- You will receive a certified Order to Seal for your personal records.
- Your criminal record information becomes substantially restricted from public view.
You may legally state that you have no criminal record, except in specific professional or governmental contexts (e.g., applying for a Nevada Gaming Control Board license).
FAQ
How long does it take to seal a record in Nevada?
Most cases take 6–12 months from start to finish, depending on the court’s schedule and agency processing times.
Can I seal my record immediately after dismissal?
Yes. If your case was dismissed or you were acquitted, you are immediately eligible to file for record sealing.
Are DUI offenses eligible for sealing?
Yes, misdemeanor DUI convictions may be sealed after 7 years, but felony DUI convictions are not eligible.
What agencies are notified once my record is sealed?
The Nevada Department of Public Safety, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, District Attorney, and any court or government agency with your record must comply.
Can I seal multiple cases at once?
Yes, you may petition to seal multiple eligible convictions in a single request, as long as each meets its waiting period.
Conclusion
If you’re ready to take control of your future and remove your past from public view, our team at Record Sealing Nevada can help.
We guide you through the entire process—from obtaining your Nevada criminal history record to filing your petition to seal records and ensuring all agencies comply with the final court order.
Contact us today for a free consultation and find out how long it will take to seal your record in Nevada based on your unique situation.
