50-State Comparison: Relief from Sex Offense Registration Obligations
Updated: October 2022
| Duration of registration requirement* | Early termination: generally‡ | Early termination: juvenile/youthful† | Eligibility: crim. history± | Standards/other considerations± |
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Duration of registration requirement* | Early termination: generally‡ | Early termination: juvenile/youthful† | Eligibility: crim. history± | Standards/other considerations± | |
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| AL | Adults: Life. Ala. Code §§ 15-20A-3, 15-20A-10(f). Eligible crimes listed in § 15-20A-5, and include a broad range down to, e.g. peeping. Out of state offenses: see § 15-20A-5(35), (37). Juveniles/"youthful offenders": Life/10 years, depending on offense, date of offense, and recidivist status §§ 15-20A-3(c), (d), (e), (f); 15-20A-28(a), (c), (e); 15-20A-35. | Registration: Less serious non-violent adult or youthful offenses, or juvenile offenses may petition the sentencing court for relief at or after sentencing, if: (1) offense did not involve force and was only a crime due to age of the victim; and (2) at the time of offense, victim was 13 years or older and the defendant was less than five years older than the victim. § 15-20A-24. Employment: Those convicted of less serious offenses may petition county court for relief from employment restrictions (e.g., regarding proximity to a school) at any time. § 15-20A-25. Restrictions may be reinstated for good cause. § 15-20A-25(i). Residency: Registrants who are terminally ill, permanently immobile, have a debilitating medical condition requiring substantial care or supervision, or require placement in a residential health care facility, may petition county court for relief from certain residency restrictions at any time. § 15-20A-23. Must be reinstated if person is no longer afflicted. § 15-20A-23(k). Pardon relieves registration obligation only if specified, and if 30 days' notice given to victim. § 15-22-36(c), (e). | Eligible juvenile and youthful offenses may petition for relief under § 15-20A-24. Lifetime juvenile registrants may petition court for full relief 25 years after release. §§ 15-20A-28(b), 15-20A-34. Juvenile sealing under § 12-15-136 not available for sex offenses. | Relief from registration: No prior or subsequent sex offense adjudications or convictions, no pending sex offense charges. § 15-20A-24(k). Court may consider criminal history. § 15-20A-24(h). Relief for employment: No prior or subsequent sex offense adjudications or convictions, no pending sex offense charges. § 15-20A-25(h). Court may consider criminal history. § 15-20A-25(f)(2). Relief for residency restrictions: no pending criminal charges. § 15-20A-23(d)(3). Lifetime juvenile registrant relief: No subsequent youthful offender sex offender adjudication, conviction for a sex offense, or pending criminal charges; court may consider criminal history. §§ 15-20A-28(e); 15-20A-34(g). | Employment: "clear and convincing evidence that the sex offender does not pose a substantial risk of perpetrating any future sex offense." Court may consider nature of offense/employment and other criteria. § 15-20A-25(f). Residency: Court must find clear and convincing evidence that person "does not pose a substantial risk of perpetrating any future sexual offense." § 15-20A-23(g). Lifetime juvenile registrant relief: Court may consider various factors and must be "satisfied by clear and convincing evidence that the juvenile sex offender is rehabilitated and does not pose a threat to the safety of the public." § 15-20A-34(g), (h). Relief from registration: Court may consider various factors and find by "clear and convincing evidence that the sex offender does not pose a substantial risk of perpetrating any future sex offense." § 15-20A-24(h). |
| AK | Life (recidivists/aggravated offenses)/15 years (all others, upon proof of unconditional discharge of sentence). Alaska Stat. § 12.63.020(a); 12.63.100. | In 2019, the Alaska Supreme Court held that "ASORA violates due process by requiring all sex offenders to register without providing a procedure for them to establish that they do not represent a threat to the public." The court held that a person may file a civil action in the superior court in which they will be permitted to attempt to prove that they "no longer pose[] a risk to the public that justifies continued registration," and if they prevail, they will be relieved of registration requirements. Doe v. State, 444 P.3d 116 (Alaska 2019). Early termination is also available upon reversal of conviction. Set aside/pardon does not provide relief. § 12.63.100(3) (registration required "regardless of whether the judgment was set aside under § 12.55.085 or a similar procedure in another jurisdiction or was the subject of a pardon or other executive clemency"). But see Maves v. Alaska Dep't of Pub. Safety, No. S-17492 (Alaska, Jan. 22, 2021) (1994 version of ASORA was not intended to apply to set-aside convictions). | No registration for juvenile adjudications. | ||
| AZ | Adults: Life/10 years, depending on recidivist status. A.R.S. § 13-3821(A),(M). Juvenile adjudication: Automatic termination at age 25. § 13-3821(F). | No provision for early termination except for "youthful offenders" on probation (see next column). Set-aside under § 13-907 does not relieve duty to register. Op. Atty. Gen. No. I00-0300, 2000 WL 33156113 (Ariz. A.G. Dec. 18, 2000). Pardon may relieve but no authority directly on point. See Ariz. Admin. Code § R5-4-101(6) (pardon "absolves an individual of the legal consequences of a crime for which the individual was convicted"). | Offense committed under age 18 (juvenile adjudication or conviction): Discretionary termination by court after successful completion of probation. A.R.S. § 13-3821(G). For conviction under 18, may also petition for termination at annual probation hearing until turning 22. §§ 13-3821(H), 13-923. Statutory rape conviction while under age 22 with probation sentence (where victim between age 15-17): May petition for termination upon completion of probation. A.R.S. § 13-3826. | Statutory rape conviction while under age 22 with probation sentence (where victim between age 15-17): No intervening felony, sex, or obscenity offense; no determination "that probable cause exists to believe the defendant is a sexually violent person." A.R.S. § 13-3826(a). | Statutory rape conviction while under age 22 with probation sentence (where victim between age 15-17): Court may deny if denial is "in the best interests of justice or tends to ensure the safety of the public." A.R.S. § 13-3826(d). |
| AR | Life. A.C.A. §§ 12-12-906, 12-12-919(a). | Less serious offenses: may petition court for relief 15 years after release from incarceration. § 12-12-919(b). Public safety standard. Not available for level 4 offenders/aggravated offenses/recidivists. § 12-12-919(a). Permanent AR residents convicted in other states may apply for relief. For conviction under § 5-24-221 (permitting physical abuse of a minor), registrant may petition for termination at any time. § 12-12-919(b). Expungement does not terminate registration obligation, § 12-12-905(b), but pardon/reversal/set aside/vacatur does. Id. at (c). | No relief provisions specific to juveniles/youthful offenses. | 15-year relief: No prior/subsequent sex offenses. § 12-12-919(a)(3), (b)(2)(A). § 5-24-221-based registration: n/a | 15-year relief: Preponderance of evidence that the petitioner is "not likely to pose a threat to the safety of others." § 12-12-919(b)(2)(B) § 5-24-221-based registration: "Preponderance of the evidence that the facts underlying the offense for which the sex offender is required to register no longer support a requirement to register." § 12-12-919(b)(3)(B). |
| CA | Life. Cal. Penal Code § 290. Effective 2021, California has adopted a 3-tier registration system with minimum registration periods of 10 years, 20 years, and life. Registration may be terminated upon petition to the superior court in the county of registration at the expiration of the minimum period. See SB 384 (2017). | Until January 1, 2021, a certificate of rehabilitation relieves duty to register for certain less serious sex offenses. Cal. Penal Code §§ 290.5(b)(3); 4851.01; 4852.03(a)(2). COR available only for CA convictions. See § 4852.01. For more serious offenses, duty to register relieved only by [state] pardon. See § 290.5(b)(1). Effective January 1, 2021, people in Tiers 2 and 3 of the new sex offense registration structure may seek relief from the superior court where they are registered, after a minimum period of registration. See column 1. Removal from website: Exclusion available from Justice Department for certain less serious offenses. See § 290.46(e). | Sealing of juvenile records under Cal. Welf. & Inst. § 781 provides relief. Sealing available 5 years after termination of juvenile court jurisdiction or upon turning 18. § 781(a). See column 1 for changes effective in 2021. | Certificate of rehabilitation: Must not have been subsequently incarcerated. Must not be on probation for a felony. § 4852.01(b). Must "conform to and obey the laws of the land." § 4852.05. Removal from website: No conviction for certain listed offenses. See § 290.46(b) - (e). See column 1 for changes effective in 2021. | Certificate of rehabilitation: "The person shall live an honest and upright life, shall conduct himself or herself with sobriety and industry, shall exhibit a good moral character, and shall conform to and obey the laws of the land." § 4852.05. Must reside in California for 5 years prior to application. §§ 4852.01(c), 4852.03(a)(2). Must not be in custody, on parole, or probation. § 290.5(a)(1). Removal from website: Mandatory for listed offenses if designated as low/moderate-low SARATSO risk level. § 290.46(e). See column 1 for changes effective in 2021. |
| CO | Life. Col. Rev. Stat. § 16-22-103. Out of state offenses, see § 16-22-103(3) ("may petition the court for an order that discontinues the requirement for registration in this state for offense classifications that such person would not be required to register for if convicted in Colorado"). | May petition court for relief after 20/10/5 years/immediately from date of discharge by DOC, depending on the offense, or upon successful completion of deferred adjudication. § 16-22-113(1)(a)-(d). Relief not available for serious violent offenses/SVPs. § 16-22-113(3). Disability: Registrants with a qualifying physical or intellectual disability may petition for termination at any time. § 16-22-113(2.5). Sex offenses not eligible for sealing under § 24-72-702. Collateral relief order not available for sex offenders. See, e.g., § 18-1.3-107. Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority directly on point. See § 16-17-103 ("A pardon issued by the governor shall waive all collateral consequences associated with each conviction"). | Juvenile offenses: May petition for relief after discharge of sentence/disposition, unless court orders continuing registration. § 16-22-113(1)(e). Relief not available for serious violent offenses/SVPs. § 16-22-113 (3). If under 18 at time of commission of first offense of unlawful sexual behavior/indecent exposure/sexual exploitation of a child (the latter limited to posting or possessing private images by a juvenile), may immediately move to be exempted from registration requirements. § 16-22-103(5). | 20/10/5 year/immediate relief/deferred adjudication: No prior/subsequent sex offense conviction/adjudication. §§ 16-22-113(1), (3), 16-22-103(4). Juvenile relief under § 16-22-113(1)(e): must meet above requirements and also may not have a pending sex offense prosecution. Under 18 relief pursuant to § 16-22-103(5): no prior unlawful sexual behavior charges. § 16-22-103(5). Disability: the court may consider any relevant information presented by the petitioner or district attorney. § 16-22-113(2.5)(f). | 20/10/5 year relief/deferred adjudication/juvenile offenses under § 16-22-113(1)(e): the court must find "the petitioner is not likely to commit a subsequent offense of or involving unlawful sexual behavior." §§ 16-22-113(1)(e), (2)(III). In addition, a person seeking immediate relief for a sex trafficking offense, must also show "by a preponderance of the evidence that at the time he or she committed the offense of human trafficking for sexual servitude, he or she had been trafficked by another person...for the purpose of committing the offense." § 16-22-113(1)(a.5). Under 18 relief pursuant to § 16-22-103(5): Evaluator must recommend exemption based on best interest of person/community. § 16-22-103(5)(a)(IV). Court must determine by totality of circumstances that registration would be unfairly punitive and that exempting the person would not pose a significant risk to the community. § 16-22-103(5). Disability: the court must find that "the petitioner suffers from a severe physical or intellectual disability to the extent that the petitioner is permanently incapacitated, does not present an unreasonable risk to public safety, and is not likely to commit a subsequent offense of or involving unlawful sexual behavior." § 16-22-113(2.5). |
| CT | Life/10 years, depending on offense/SVP status/recidivist status. Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 54-251(a), 54-252(a). Out of state convictions, see § 54-253(a) (until registration terminates in jurisdiction of conviction). | Full pardon "erases" conviction and person "deemed to have never been arrested," though no authority directly on point. § 54-142a(e). No other provision for early termination. | No registration for juvenile adjudications. | ||
| DE | Life (tier III/recidivists)/25 years (tier II)/15 years (tier I). 11 Del. C. § 4121(e). *Registration period runs from release from custody (if level V custody) or effective date of sentence (level IV custody or below). Id. | Tier II/III misdemeanor offenses where victim was not under 13 (if defendant was 18 or older at time of commission) may petition the superior court for relief immediately. § 4121(d)(6). Tier I offenders may petition the court for relief 10 years from last day of Level IV/V sentence, or from the date of sentencing if no IV/V sentence imposed. § 4121(e)(2)(c). Tier II/III offenders may petition for redesignation and eventually reach a Tier I designation, though certain waiting periods and eligibility criteria apply. See § 4121(e)(2). Unconditional pardon relieves registration obligations. Heath v. State, 983 A.2d 77 (Del. 2009). Sex offenses not eligible for misdemeanor first offender expungement. § 4373(c)(1). | Juveniles convicted of less serious offenses may petition for relief at earlier of 2 years after adjudication/completion of treatment. § 4123(d). Juveniles may be exempted from registration for less serious offenses at sentencing, § 4123(c), or seek relief from registration or assignment to a lower tier, at the conclusion of treatment or 2 years after adjudication. § 4123(d). | Tier II/III misdemeanor offenders: No sex offense/violent felony convictions. § 4121(d)(6)(b). Tier I offenders: Must be free of any non-vehicle conviction for 10 years. § 4121(e)(2)(c). | Tier II/III offenses: Court must determine "by a preponderance of the evidence that such person is not likely to pose a threat to public safety if released from the obligations [imposed by registration]." § 4121(d)(6)(c) Tier I offenses: Must establish "by a preponderance of the evidence, that the public safety no longer requires preservation of the original designation." § 4121(e)(2)(d). Must complete treatment program. § 4121(e)(2)(c). Juveniles (2 year relief & initial exemption): Court must determine "by a preponderance of the evidence that such person is not likely to pose a threat to public safety." § 4123(c)(2), (d). |
| DC | Life/10 years (running from placement on probation or parole, or completion of community supervision if later) depending on offense/recidivist status/sexual psychopath status. D.C. Code § 22-4002(a), (b). For non-D.C. offenses, see § 22-4001(8)(g). | A person required to register in D.C. for an offense from another jurisidiction can petition the superior court for review of that determination. § 22-4004 (at the time a person is informed about a determination, they must provide notice of intent seek a review and do so within 30 days; otherwise must seek review within 3 years "but only for good cause shown and to prevent manifest injustice"). A person is deemed not to have committed a registrable offense if: the conviction is reversed or vacated, or the person is pardoned on the ground of innocence. § 22-4001(3). | No registration for juvenile adjudications. | ||
| FL | Life. Fla. Stat. § 943.0435(11). | May petition the circuit court for relief 25 years after release for less serious offenses. § 943.0435(11)(a). Full pardon relieves all registration obligations. § 943.0435(11). | Certain youthful offenses (not more than 4 years older than victim who was 13 or older but less than 18) may petition for relief immediately. § 943.04354. | 25 year relief: No subsequent arrest for a felony or misdemeanor. § 943.0435(11)(a)(1) Youthful offenders: n/a | 25 year relief: Must demonstrate that relief complies with certain federal standards. Court must be "satisfied that the offender is not a current or potential threat to public safety." § 943.0435(11)(a)(3). Youthful offenders: Termination must not conflict with federal law. § 943.04354(2). |
| GA | Life. O.C.G.A. § 42-1-12(f)(6). | Certain less violent offenses: May petition court for relief from registration, residency and employment restrictions 10 years after completion of sentence. Such persons with level I risk assessment may petition for relief at any time. § 42-1-19(a)(4), (c)(2). Non-sexual kidnapping of minor: May petition for relief immediately. 42-1-19(a)(3), (c)(1). Physically incapacitated registrants, those in a nursing home or permanently disabled may petition for relief immediately. § 42-1-19(a)(1), (c)(1). Discharge following first offender deferred adjudication provides relief from registration obligations. § 42-1-12(8). Pardon provides relief from registration. People with sex offenses requiring registration must wait 10 years before applying, and a separate application form is required. See https://pap.georgia.gov/ pardons-restoration-rights. | No registration for juvenile adjudications. | Certain less violent offenses: No prior conviction for sex offense/distribution of obscene materials to minors. O.C.G.A. §§ 42-1-19(a)(4), 17-10-6.2(c)(1)(A). Pardon: "Must have lived a law-abiding life during the 10 years prior to applying." No pending charges. All fines and restitution must be paid. https://pap.georgia.gov/pardons-restoration-rights. | Certain less violent offenses: Court must find "by a preponderance of the evidence that the individual does not pose a substantial risk of perpetrating any future dangerous sexual offense." O.C.G.A. § 42-1-19(f). Must complete supervised release/probation. O.C.G.A. § 42-1-19(a)(4). For specific disqualifying offense characteristics, see O.C.G.A. § 17-10-6.2(c)(1). Non-sexual kidnapping of minor: Same "preponderance" standard as above. § 42-1-19(f). Incapacitated registrants: Must have completed period of parole/probation § 42-1-19(a)(1). Same "preponderance" standard as above. § 42-1-19(f). Pardon: Considerations include results of mandatory polygraph and psychosexual evaluation. https://pap.georgia.gov/pardons-restoration-rights. |
| HI | Life. HRS § 846E-2. | Any person may petition court for relief after 40 years (from later of date of sentencing/release). § 846E-10(e). Certain tier 2 offenses: may petition after 25 years, § 846E-10(c); certain tier 1 offenses after 10 years, § 846E-10(d). Out of state offenses, see § 846E-2(b). Pardon/reversal of conviction removes data from public registry. § 846E-3(e). | No registration for juvenile adjudications. | 40 year relief: n/a 25/10 year relief: "Maintained a clean record" and no "repeat covered offender[s]." §§ 846E-10(c), (d), 846E-1. | 40/25/10 year relief: Substantial evidence and more than proof by a preponderance of the evidence that the person is very unlikely to commit a covered offense ever again, and registration will not assist in protecting the safety of the public or any member thereof. § 846E-10(f) |
| ID | Life. Idaho Code § 18-8310(1). | May petition court for full relief after 10 years if not an aggravated offender/violent sexual predator. § 18-8310(1). May petition from relief from bars on employment with child care facility/proximity to facility after 10 years. § 18-8328. Pardon for violent and sex crimes available 5 years after completion of sentence. IDAPA 50.01.01.550.01(b). Not clear what effect on registration. Expungement under Idaho Code § 19-2604 is not available for sex offenses requiring registration. | No relief provisions specific to juveniles/youthful offenders. | Full relief: No other conviction for offense requiring registration. § 18-8310(4). No pending criminal charges. § 18-8310 (1)(b). Employment/proximity: N/A | Full relief: Clear and convincing evidence that it is highly probable or reasonably certain the petitioner is not a risk to commit a new violation for any violent crime/sex offense/certain crimes against minors. § 18-8310(4)(c). See also State v. Kimball, 181 P.3d 468. Must have completed sentence and treatment program. § 18-8310(1)(a), (e). Employment/proximity: Clear and convincing evidence that the person does not pose threat to children in day care facilities. Must present testimony from licensed physician/psychologist about petitioner's chance of success of not committing an act against children. § 18-8328. |
| IL | Life/10 years, depending on offense/SVP status/recidivist status. 730 ILCS 150/7. | No specific provision for early termination. Sealing or expungement of conviction appears to relieve obligation to register. 20 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. 2630/12(a). Pardon may relieve if expungement authorized. | Juveniles: May petition for relief after 5 (felony)/2 years (misdemeanor). 150/3-5(c). Does not apply to juveniles prosecuted as adults. 150 /3-5(i). | Juveniles: Registrant poses no risk to the community (by a preponderance of the evidence based upon enumerated factors). 150/3-5(d), (e). | |
| IN | Life/10 years (from later of release from incarceration/placement on community supervision), depending on offense/SVP status/recidivist status. Ind. Code Ann. § 11-8-8-19. Out of state convictions, see § 11-8-8-19(f). | No specific provision for early termination. Expungement of adult record does not provide relief. § 35-38-9-6(e). Pardon may relieve but no authority on point. | No relief provisions specific to juveniles/youthful offenses. | ||
| IA | Life/10 years/special sentence term, depending on offense/SVP status/recidivist status. Iowa Code § 692A.106. | Those convicted of Tier I offenses may petition the district court for modification of registration requirements after 2 years; Tiers II and III after 5 years. §§ 692A.128(1)-(6). Registration not required for deferred judgment that has been set aside. § 692A.101(7). Pardon may relieve but no authority on point. | Juvenile court may waive registration requirement in most instances. § 692A.103(3), (4). Prior to discharge by juvenile court, most juveniles may move for modification/suspension of registration requirements upon a showing of good cause. § 692A.103(5); see also § 232.54(1)(i). Sealing under § 232.150 does not provide relief. § 692A.101(7). | 2/5 year relief: Risk assessment must classify person as a low risk to reoffend. Must complete required treatment. § 692A.128(2). Persons still on conditional release of any kind must additionally obtain stipulation of district DOC director. § 692A.128(2)(e). | |
| KS | Life/25 years/15 years, depending on offense/SVP status/recidivist status. K.S.A. §§ 22-4906. Juveniles under 14: Must register to age 18 or for 5 years from adjudication/release, whichever is later. § 22-4906(f). Out of state convictions, see §§ 22-4906(k), (l) (term required by jurisdiction of conviction or KS, whichever is longer). | "No person required to register as an offender pursuant to the Kansas offender registration act shall be granted an order relieving the offender of further registration under this act." § 22-4908. Expungement does not relieve registration, but relieves public registration. § 22-4909(e). However, expungement under § 21-6614 is not available while registered. § 21-6614(f). Pardon may relieve but no authority on point. | Juveniles under 14: Court may waive registration requirement for "substantial and compelling reasons" and may require that registration information shall not be open to inspection by the public or posted on the internet. § 22-4906(f). | ||
| KY | Life/20 years, depending on offense/SVP status/recidivist status. KRS § 17.520(2), (3). | No provision for early termination of mandatory terms. Registration terminates upon completion of pretrial diversion/deferred adjudication under § 533.250. § 17.500(5)(d). Early termination available in case of pardon or reversal of the conviction. § 17.578. | No relief provisions specific to juveniles/youthful offenses. | ||
| LA | Life/25 years/15 years, depending on offense/ district attorney motion for finding of substantial risk of committing another offense. La. R.S. § 15:544(A), (B), (F). Out of state offenses, see § 15:544(C) (term required by jurisdiction of conviction or LA, whichever is longer). | 15 year registration may be reduced by the court of conviction (or residence) to 10 years upon petition § 15:544(E)(1). No provision for reducing 25-year registration requirement. § 15:544(B)(1). Person whose period was increased to lifetime based on a finding of substantial risk of committing another offense, may petition for relief. § 15:544(F)(2). "The requirement to register shall apply to an offender who receives a pardon as a first-time offender." § 15:544(A), (B)(1). Deferred/withheld adjudication does not provide relief, §§ 15:541(7), (24)(b), nor does expungement, La. C.Cr.P. Art. 973(A)(1). | Lifetime juvenile offense: May be reduced to 25 years upon petition after 25 years if "clean record." La. R.S. § 15:544(E)(2). | 15 year/lifetime juvenile relief: "clean record" (see 15:544(E)(3)), including no sex offense convictions and no subsequent felony convictions. § 15:544(E)(3), (E)(4)(c). Relief from increased lifetime term: "clean record" (see § 15:544(E)(3)) for period of time the person would otherwise have been required to register. § 15:544(F)(2). | 15 year/lifetime juvenile relief: Must successfully complete any period of supervised release/sex offender treatment program. § 15:544(E). Relief from increased lifetime term: court must find clear and convincing evidence that "the offender does not pose a substantial risk of committing another offense requiring registration." § 15:544(F)(2). |
| ME | Life (Tier III/recidivists)/25 years (Tier II)/10 years (Tier I). Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Tit. 34-A, § 11285. Out of state offenses, see §§ 11285(2), (4), (6), (9) (same periods as Maine; pardon and set-aside relief also apply). | No provision for early termination. Pardon/vacatur/set aside/reversal provide relief from registration obligations. § 11285(9)(B). However, by policy, pardon will not be granted solely for removal from registry. http://www.maine.gov/ corrections/adult/pardon/. Registration not required for charge dismissed following completion of deferred disposition under Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Tit. 17-A, § 1348-A. See Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Tit. 34-A, § 11272(1). | No registration for juvenile adjudications. Me. Rev. Stat. Ann. Tit. 34-A, § 11272(1). | ||
| MD | Life (tier III offenses)/25 years from release/placement on conditional sentence (tier II offender)/15 years (tier I offender)/5 years (certain juvenile offenses, described below). Md. Code Ann., Crim. Proc. § 11-707. Registration is required for "up to 5 years" if a person: (1) is at least 18 years old; (2) was adjudicated for an act that if committed by an adult would violate listed statutes; (3) was at least 13 years old at the time of the act; and (4) 90 days before juvenile court jurisdiction terminates, the court, upon request from the State's Attorney or Department of Juvenile Services, finds by clear and convincing evidence "that the person is at significant risk of committing a sexually violent offense or an offense for which registration as a tier II sex offender or tier III sex offender is required." §§ 11-704(c), 11-707(a)(4)(iv). In addition, juvenile registration (accessible only by law enforcement) is required until termination of juvenile court's jurisdiction, if a person is adjudicated for an act that if committed by an adult would violate listed statutes, and was at least age 14 at the time of act. § 11-704.1. Out of state offenses, see § 11-704 (a) (4) (as long as required by other jurisdiction). | Registration period of tier I offender may be reduced to 10 years upon petition after 10 years. § 11-707(c). Pardon/vacatur/set aside/reversal relieves registration obligation. § 11-704(b). | Persons subject to registration for "up to 5 years" due to a juvenile offense, may petition the juvenile court for reduction of the term of registration. § 11-707(a)(4)(iv) | Tier I offenders: No sex offense/felony conviction in prior 10 years. § 11-707(c)(1), (2). | Tier I offenders: Must successfully complete any period of supervised release/parole/probation and treatment program. § 11-707(c)(3), (4). |
| MA | Life/20 years, depending on offense/SVP status/recidivist status. Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 6, § 178G. Court may waive registration if not sentenced to immediate confinement, unless recidivist/serious offender. § 178E(f). | 20 year registrants may petition the Sex Offender Registry Board for termination after 10 years. §§ 178G, 178L. Judicial review of board decisions. §178M. Pardon may relieve registration obligation but no authority on point. See Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 127, § 152. Sealing does not provide relief. See ch. 276, § 100A(6), ch. 6, § 172(b). | No relief provisions specific to juveniles/youthful offenses. | 20 year registrants: No subsequent sex offense conviction within the 10 years preceding the petition. § 178G. | 20 year registrants: Clear and convicting evidence that the person is not likely to pose a danger to the safety of others. § 178G. |
| MI | Life (tier III)/25 years (tier II)/15 years (tier I). Mich. Comp. Laws § 28.725(10)-(12). | Tier I registrants may petition the court for relief after 10 years. § 28.728c(12). Any registrant who was registered before July 1, 2011 for an offense that required registration but for which registration is not required after July 1, 2011, must be terminated upon petition. § 28.728c(3), (15)(b). Set aside/expungement does not provide relief. § 28.722(b)(1); see § 28.728(10). Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority on point. See People v. Van Heck, 651 N.W.2d 174, 179 (Mich. App. 2002). | Those convicted of certain consensual youthful offenses may petition for termination at any time. § 28.728c(3), (14). Termination is mandatory if eligible based on details of offense. Id. Tier III based on juvenile adjudication may petition after 25 years. § 28.728c(2), (13). Registration of juvenile offender under 14 at the time of offense must be terminated upon petition. § 28.728c(3), (15)(a). | Tier I/Juvenile tier III: No sex offense/felony conviction during preceding 10/25 years. § 28.728c(12), (13). | Tier I/juvenile tier III: Court must determine that the individual is not a continuing threat to the public upon consideration of factors including severity of offense, prior record, and victim impact statement. § 28.728c(11). Must successfully complete supervised release/parole/probation and treatment program. § 28.728c(12), (13). |
| MN | Life/10 years, depending on conviction/recidivist status. Minn. Stat. § 243.166(6)(a), (d). Out of state offenses, see § 243.166(1b)(b)(3), (6)(4)(e) (registration for period required by MN law unless longer period in jurisdiction of conviction). | No specific provision for early termination. Pardon may relieve obligation to register but no authority on point. See § 638.02(2). Sealing probably does not relieve registration duty. Sex offenses may not be expunged under statutory expungement pursuant to § 609A.02, but inherent authority expungement may be available in limited circumstances. See State v. S.L.H., 755 N.W.2d 271 (Minn. 2008) (elaborating on standard recognized in State v. C.A., 304 N.W.2d 353 (Minn. 1981)). However, inherent authority expungement has limited benefits, as it only affects judicial records and not executive branch records. See State v. M.D.T., 831 N.W.2d 276 (Minn. 2013). | No relief provisions specific to juveniles/youthful offenses. | ||
| MS | Life. Miss. Code Ann. §§ 45-33-25, -47(1). | Tier I registrant may petition the circuit court for relief after 15 years; Tier II after 25 years. § 45-33-47(2)(b), (c). Relief not available for certain offenses against persons younger than 15. § 45-33-47(2)(f). Pardon/set aside/dismissal relieves registration obligations. § 45-33-47(4). Expungement/sealing (except for juvenile sealing) not available for sex offenses. § 45-33-55. | First time offense juvenile 14 years or older adjudicated for rape pursuant to § 96-3-65 or a registrable sexual battery pursuant to § 97-3-95 may petition for relief after 25 years. § 45-33-47(2)(g). | Tier I/Tier II/juvenile: Relief not available for certain recidivists. § 45-33-47(2)(e), (g). Court considers prior and subsequent criminal behavior. § 45-33-47(3). | Tier I/Tier II/juvenile: Must show that "future registration . . . will not serve the purposes of [the law] and the court is otherwise satisfied that the petitioner is not a current or potential threat to public safety." § 45-33-47(3). |
| MO | Life (tier III)/25 years (tier II)/15 years (tier I). Mo. Rev. Stat. § 589.400. | Tier I registrant may petition the court for 5 year reduction of term after 10 years with a "clean record." § 589.400(5). Anyone registered or who otherwise would be required to register for felonious restraint or kidnapping of a nonsexual nature when the person was the parent or guardian and the victim was the child, or nonsexual child abuse, shall be removed from the registry. § 589.400(8). In addition, § 589.400(9) authorizes a person to petition to remove the registration requirement for certain types of conduct and offenses, by filing a petition under § 589.400, but that section imposes waiting periods of 10 years for Tier I, 25 years for Tier II, and 25 years for Tier III juvenile adjudications. § 589.401(4). Vacatur/set aside/ reversal provides relief. § 589.400(3) (previously included pardon). | Tier III based on juvenile adjudication may be reduced to 25 years after 25 years with a "clean record." § 589.400(5). | Tier I/Tier III juvenile relief: no sex offense/felony conviction during preceding 10/25 years, and no pending sex offense/felony charges. §§ 589.400(5), 589.401(11). | Tier I/Tier III juvenile relief: must successfully complete any period of supervised release/parole/probation and treatment program, and court must find that the person "is not a current or potential threat to public safety." §§ 589.400(5), 589.401(11). |
| MT | Life. Mont. Code Ann. § 46-23-506(1). Out of state offenses, see § 46-23-502(9)(b). | Those convicted of less serious level 1 offenses may petition court for relief after 10 years; level 2 offenders after 25 years. § 46-23-506(3)(b), (5). Not available for SVPs. § 46-23-506(5)(d). Pardon may relieve registration obligation, but no authority on point. See § 46-23-301(1)(b). | First-time juvenile sex offense adjudication except from registration, unless the juvenile court finds that "registration is necessary for protection of the public and that registration is in the public's best interest." § 41-5-1513(1)(d). | 10/25 year relief: No subsequent sex offenses. § 46-23-506(5)(c). Person must have "remained a law abiding citizen." § 46-23-506(3)(b)(i). Juvenile: No prior sex offenses. § 41-5-1513(1)(d)(i). | 10/25 year relief: Court must find that continued registration is "not necessary for public protection and that relief from registration is in the best interests of society." § 46-23-506(3)(b)(ii). Juvenile: Similar criteria as 10/25 year relief, see § 41-5-1513(1)(d). |
| NE | Life/25 years/15 years, depending on offense/recidivist status. Neb. Rev. Stat. § 29-4005(1)(b). | 15 year period may be reduced to 10 years upon petition to the Nebraska State Patrol after 10 years. § 29-4005(2). Pardon relieves registration obligation. See 2002 Op. Att'y Gen. No. 02025, http://ago.nebraska.gov /ag_opinion_view?oid=4011 ("It is our conclusion that because the registration requirements of the NSORA are a legal consequence of a conviction, a sex offender who has been pardoned would not be required to register as a sex offender"). Out-of-state pardon also given effect. § 4003(1)(a)(ii). Probationer set aside does not provide relief from registration obligation, § 29-2264(5)(j), nor does any other "comparable procedure" from another jurisdiction "to nullify a conviction other than by a pardon." § 4003(1)(a)(ii). | Juveniles not subject to SORA unless prosecuted in adult court. Same rule applies to out of state juvenile offenses. See http://journalstar.com/news/local/judge-bars-state-from-adding-boy-to-state-s-sex/article_d0d21ddd-f912-532c-89b4-b0544e6de6f0.html. | 15 year reduction: No sex offense/felony convictions during registration period. § 29-4005(2)(a), (b). | 15 year reduction: Must successfully complete period of supervision/probation/parole and treatment program. § 29-4005(2)(c), (d). |
| NV | Life (tier III)/25 years (tier II)/15 years (tier I). Nev. Rev. Stat. § 179D.490. | Tier I registrant may petition the court for 5 year reduction of term after 10 years. § 179D.490(3), (4). Pardon does not provide relief from registration requirement, which is regulatory. See Nev. Op. Atty Gen. 14 (Nov. 18, 2003), http://pardons.nv.gov/uploaded Files/pardonsnvgov/content/About /PardonInformalOpinion.pdf. Sealing of adult convictions not available for sex offenses. § 179.245(5). | Juveniles: the juvenile court may not terminate jurisdiction until the court has either relieved the person from, or ordered the person to be subject to, requirements for registration and community notification. § 62F.310. A hearing must be held to make this determination around the date that the person reaches 21 years of age. § 62F.340. A person adjudicated for a non-aggravated sexual may move the juvenile court to be exempted from community notification or placement on the community notification website. § 62F.320. Tier III juvenile adjudication offense may petition for relief after 25 years. § 179D.490(3), (4) | Tier I/Tier III juvenile relief: No sex offense/felony conviction during preceding 25/10 years. § 179D.490(3). Juvenile age 21 hearing/community notification relief: court may consider entire criminal history. §§ 62F.320(3)(a), 62F.340(5)(a). | Tier I/Tier III juvenile relief: Must successfully complete period of supervised release/probation/parole and treatment program. § 179D.490(3). Juvenile age 21 hearing: to relieve from registration and community notification requirements, the court must find, considering several enumerated factors, "by clear and convincing evidence at the hearing that the child has been rehabilitated to the satisfaction of the juvenile court and that the child is not likely to pose a threat to the safety of others." § 62F.340. Juvenile community notification relief: the court, considering enumerated factors, must find "by clear and convincing evidence that the child is not likely to pose a threat to the safety of others." § 62F.320. |
| NH | Life (tier II/III)/10 years from later of conviction/release (tier I). N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 651-B:6(I), (II); § 651-B:1(VIII)-(X) (defines tiers, including for out of state offenses). The juvenile court at disposition may ["o]rder the minor to register as a sexual offender or offender against children pursuant to RSA 651-B until the juvenile reaches the age of 18 if the court finds that the minor presents a risk to public safety." § 169-B:19(k); § 651-B:1(XI). Out of state juvenile adjudications based on requirements of that jurisdiction. § 651-B:1(XI)(a)(4). | Tier II may petition the superior court for relief after 15 years; tier I offenders after 5 years. § 651-B:6(III)(a). Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority on point. Doe v. State, 114 N.H. 714 (1974) (pardon "completely eliminat[es] all consequences of the conviction"). | Juvenile registration terminates at 17 years, unless the juvenile court retains jurisdiction under RSA 169-B:4, V, in which case registration terminates jurisdiction is terminated. § 651-B:6(IV). | 15/5 year relief: No convictions for sex offense/felony/class A misdemeanor/offense against child. § 651-B:6(III)(a). | 15/5 year relief: Must successfully complete period of supervised release/probation/parole and treatment program, and a risk assessment at the person's expense. § 651-B:6(III)(a). Court must find that removal from the registration requirements will assist the individual in the individual's rehabilitation and will be consistent with the public welfare. § 651-B:6(III)(b). |
| NJ | Life. N.J. Stat. § 2C:7-2. Out of state offenses, see N.J. Stat. § 2C:7-2(b)(3). | May petition the superior court for relief 15 years from later of conviction/release. N.J. Stat. § 2C:7-2(f). Certain persons ineligible. § 2C:7-2(g). Pardon may or may not relieve obligation to register, but wording of relevant statute suggests it does not. See § 2A:167-5. | No relief provisions specific to juveniles/youthful offenders. | 15-year relief: Must not have "committed an offense within 15 years following conviction or release." § 2C:7-2(f). Recidivist sex offenders not eligible. § 2C:7-2(g). | 15-year relief: Requires proof that offender "is not likely to pose a threat to the safety of others." § 2C:7-2(f). |
| NM | Life/10 years (from later of release/placement on supervision), depending on offense/recidivist status. N.M. Stat. Ann. §§ 29-11A-4(L), 29-11A-5(D), (E), (F). Out of state offenses, see § 29-11A-4(L)(3) (duration of time from convicting jurisdiction or NM, whichever is longer). | No provision for early termination. Registration is required while under deferred sentence, but not after a conditional discharge under § 31-20-13. See § 29-11A-3(B). By policy, people convicted of sex offenses are not ordinarily granted pardons, but are not precluded from applying. See N.M. Pardon Guidelines, https://www.governor.state.nm.us/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Executive-Clemency-Guidelines_Final.pdf. Not clear if pardons relieve registration requirement. | No registration for juvenile adjudications. | ||
| NY | Life (level 2/3/sexual predator/violent/predicate offender); 20 years from later of date of conviction/release from custody (level 1). N.Y. Correct. Law § 168-h. | Person classified as level 2 offender and not designated sexual predator/sexually violent offender/predicate sex offender may petition the sentencing court (or the court that determined duration) for termination after 30 years. § 168-o(1). Person classified as level 2/3 offender may petition for reclassification to a lower level. § 168-o(2). Pardon relieves registration obligations. § 168-f(4). Conviction that has been "set aside" not subject to registration. § 168-a(1). | No registration for juvenile adjudications. | Level 2 termination: Must prove by clear and convincing evidence that his or her risk of repeat offense and threat to public safety is such that registration or verification is no longer necessary. § 168-o(1). | |
| NC | Life/30 years (from later of conviction/release from custody), depending on offense/SVP status/recidivist status. N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 14-208.7, 12-208.4 (out of state offenses),14-208.23. Juveniles: earlier of 18 years old or termination of juvenile court's jurisdiction. § 14-208.30. | 30 year registrants may petition the superior court for termination after 10 years. § 14-208.12A. Reversal/vacatur/set aside/unconditional pardon for innocence relieves registration obligation. § 14-208.6C. Implication that ordinary pardon does not. Sex offenses not eligible for expungement. See §§ 15A-145.4(a)(3), -145.5(a)(3). | No relief provisions specific to juveniles/youthful offenders. | 30 year registrants : No subsequent sex offense convictions/arrests. § 14-208.12A(a), (a1)(1). | 30 year registrants: Court must be satisfied that the petitioner is not a current or potential threat to public safety. § 14-208.12A(a1)(3). Relief must comply with standards upon which federal funding is conditioned. § 14-208.12A(a1)(2). If denied, may petition again after one year. § 14-208.12A(a1)(3). |
| ND | Life/25 years/15 years, depending on offense/risk classification/recidivist status. N.D. Cent. Code, § 12.1-32-15(8). | No specific provision for early termination. Registration required for deferred adjudication. See § 12.1-32-15(1)(e), (8). Pardon may relieve registration but no authority on point, See § 12-55.1-01(4) (pardon removes "punishment or custody imposed upon a person for the commission of an offense"). | No relief provisions specific to juveniles/youthful offenders. | ||
| OH | Adults: Life (tier III)/25 years (tier II)/15 years (tier I). Ohio Rev. Code Ann. 2950.07(B). See § 2950.07(A) for duration details. Juveniles: Life (tier III/public registry-qualified person)/20 years (tier II)/10 years (tier I). § 2950.07(B). See § 2950.07(A) for duration details. Out of state offenses, see § 2950.07(E) (may apply for credit for time already spent in another jurisdiction). | Tier I registrant may petition court of common pleas for termination after 10 years; § 2950.15(C)(1). Pardon may relieve registration, but no authority on point. See § 2967.04(B) (Unconditional pardon "relieves the person to whom it is granted of all disabilities arising out of the conviction"). | Public registry-qualified juvenile registrants may petition for termination after 25 years. § 2950.15(C)(2). Other juvenile registrants may petition for reclassification/declassification three years after completion of disposition. § 2152.85. Under a 2021 law, certain persons convicted of “unlawful sexual conduct with a minor” who were under age 21 at the time of the offense may petition a court for an evaluation as to whether registration should be terminated, modified, or continued. § 2950.151 | Tier I registrants/registry qualified juveniles: No subsequent conviction/guilty plea/adjudication for any offense other than minor traffic offenses. § 2950.15(D)(4). | Tier I registrant/registry qualified juveniles: Court considers enumerated factors including evidence of rehabilitation/employment/financial responsibility. § 2950.15(G). Must complete sex/child-victim offender treatment program. § 2950.15(D)(3). Other juvenile registrants: Court considers enumerated factors including nature of offense/criminal history/public interest and safety. § 2152.85(C). |
| OK | Life (level 3/habitual/aggravated offense)/25 years (level 2)/15 years (level 1). 57 Okl. Stat. § 583(C), (D). | Persons assigned level 1 may petition the district court for termination after 10 arrest and conviction-free years. § 583(E). Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority on point. Sex offenses ineligible for deferred adjudication/ expungement under 22 Okla. Stat. Ann. § 991c. Out of state offenses: Registration not required for expunged out-of-state conviction. 57 Okl. Stat. § 582(E) (SORA shall not apply to anyone "who has received a criminal history records expungement for a conviction in another state for a crime or attempted crime which, if committed or attempted in this state, would be a crime"). | Youthful offenders convicted of certain rape offenses who were not more than 4 years older than victim, who was 14-17 years old, may petition for relief at sentencing or any time thereafter. 57 Ok. St. § 590.2. | Level 1: No arrest or conviction for any felony or misdemeanor within preceding 10 years. § 583(E). Youthful offenders: No other conviction for offenses to which relief applies. § 590.2(a)(1). | Youthful offenders: Relief must not conflict with federal law. § 590.2(B), (C). |
| OR | Life. O.R.S. § 163A.010(3)(e). | Not eligible for relief if: (1) classified as a sexually violent dangerous person; (2) found guilty or convicted of listed serious offenses; or (3) classified as level 3 sex offender under § 708.7 (2)(b) (2013). § 163A.115. Misdemeanor/class C felony offenders may petition circuit court for relief 10 years after termination of supervision/probation. Not available for predatory sex offenders. § 163A.120(1)(a). Level 1 offender: May petition court for relief after 5 years at level one classification. ORS § 163A.125(1)(a), (1)(c). Level 2 and Level 3 offenders may petition court for reclassification at a lower offense level after 10 years, § 163A.125(2), and ultimately for relief as Level 1. Out of state offense, see § 163A.125(1)(d) (may not petition for relief unless law in jurisdiction of conviction would permit it). Pardon/vacatur/reversal relieves registration obligation. § 163A.806(3)(d). Set aside under § 137.225 does not provide relief. | Certain juvenile registrants may petition for termination 2 years after jurisdiction of juvenile court/Psychiatric Security Review Board terminates, for Class A/B felony sex offense; 30 days for Class C felony sex offense. §§ 163A.130(2), 163A.135(2). Certain offenders less than 5 years older than victim that could not consent because of age may be exempted by court upon conviction/adjudication, and may petition for relief any time thereafter. See §§ 163A.140, 163A.145, 163A.150. | Misdemeanor/class C felony: No prior/subsequent sex offense. § 163A.120(1)(a)(A). Court considers entire criminal history. § 163A.120(2)(d). Certain offenders less than 5 years older than victim: No other sex offense conviction/adjudication. ORS § 163A.140(2)(d). Level 1 offender: No subsequent conviction for person felony/person class A misdemeanor. § 163A.125(3)(a). Court considers all past criminal conduct. § 163A.125(5)(i). Juvenile: Court may consider entire criminal history. § 163A.130(4)(h). | Misdemeanor/class C felony/juvenile: Clear and convincing evidence that the petitioner is rehabilitated and that the petitioner does not pose a threat to the safety of the public. §§ 163A.120(3), 163A.130(4). Certain offenders less than 5 years older than victim: Must meet eligibility requirements at ORS § 163A.140. For determination made upon conviction/adjudication, state bears burden of proving ineligibility. § 163A.145(2), (3). Thereafter, offender bears burden of proving eligibility. § 163A.150(6). Level 1 offender: Clear and convincing evidence that petitioner is statistically unlikely to reoffend and does not pose a threat to the safety of the public. § 163A.125(4)(a). Board considers enumerated factors at § 163A.125(5). |
| PA | Life (tier III/ sexually violent person /juvenile*)/25 years (tier II)/15 years (tier I). 42 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 9799.15(a). Out of state offenses, see § 9799.15(a)(7) ("period of time equal to the time for which the individual was required to register in another jurisdiction or foreign country"); id. at (4.1) (juvenile required to register where convicted must register even if not required in PA). | No early termination of registration requirements available for adult offenses, other than pardon. § 9799.23(b)(2). A pardon is grounds for expungement, which removes all collateral consequences including registration requirements. See Commonwealth v. C.S., 534 A.2d 1053 (Pa. 1987). | Certain people with juvenile offenses* may petition for termination after 25 years. § 9799.17(a)(1). Not available for sexually violent delinquent child, sexually violent offender required to register for life/15/25 years, SVP. § 9799.17(e). *Lifetime registration for juvenile offenses was struck down by the PA Supreme Court in 2014. See In re: J.B., 107 A.3d 1 (P.A. 2014). | Juvenile offenses: No subsequent conviction for sexually violent offense/felony/2nd degree or higher misdemeanor. § 9799.17(a)(2). | Juvenile offenses: Clear and convincing evidence that allowing the petitioner to terminate the obligation to register is not likely to pose a threat to the safety of any other person. § 9799.17(b)(2). Must successfully complete court-ordered supervision/treatment program. § 9799.17(a)(3), (4). |
| RI | Life/10 years, depending on offense/SVP status/recidivist status. R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-37.1-4(a)-(c). Juveniles: 15 years for SVP/aggravated crimes/10 years. § 11-37.1-4(j). | No specific provision for early termination. Tier II/III subject to community notification may seek review of assessed notification level/manner of notification ordered. § 11-37.1-13. | In case of a juvenile, "the court shall assess the totality of the circumstances of the offense and if the court makes a finding that the conduct of the parties is criminal only because of the age of the victim, the court may have discretion to order the juvenile to register as a sex offender as long as the court deems it appropriate to protect the community and to rehabilitate the juvenile offender." § 11-37-1-4(j). | Community notification: "Preponderance of the evidence that the determination on either the level of notification or the manner in which it is proposed to be accomplished is not in compliance" with law governing registration/notification. § 11-37.1-16. | |
| SC | Life. S.C. Code Ann. § 23-3-460(A). | Authority for early termination enacted for first time by H. 4075. South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) may consider early termination for Tier I and Tier II offenders if: (1) successful completion of all required sex offender treatment programs, (2) no convictions for failure to register in the last 10 years, and (3) no convictions for any sexual offense or violent sexual offense since placement on the registry. § 23-3-462(A). Tier 1 offenders may apply after 15 years of registration; Tier 2 offenders may apply after 25 years. Id. If SLED denies request, may file a motion with the general sessions court to request an order of removal. § 23-3-463(A)(1). Tier III offenders may file a motion in court 30 years after release from incarceration without supervision or termination of active supervision. § 23-3-463(A)(2). Pardon does not result in removal from registry unless granted for innocence ("based on a finding of not guilty specifically stated"). § 23-3-430(F). Out of state/federal offenses: may apply if eligible for removal under the laws of the jurisdiction where the conviction occurred. § 23-3-462(A)(1)(c). Multiple offenses in different tiers: may petition for removal only after the required time passes for the highest tier offense that requires registration. § 23-3-462(F). | Tier I offenders who have been registered for at least 15 years after an adjudication of delinquency who have (1) successfully completed all sex offender treatment programs that have been required, (2) not been convicted of failure to register in the last ten years, and (3) not been convicted of any additional sexual offense or violent sexual offense since being placed on the registry may apply to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) for early termination. § 23-3-462(A). If SLED denies the request, may file a motion with the general sessions court to request an order of removal. § 23-3-463(A)(1). A juvenile convicted of an offense in family court who is required to register who has his record expunged, sealed, or been pardoned must be removed from the registry by SLED. § 23-3-437. | Tiers 1 & 2: no convictions for failure to register in the last 10 years and no convictions for any additional sexual offense or violent sexual offense since placement on the registry. § 23-3-462(A). | When a motion is filed appealing a denial of removal from SLED, a court may direct a qualified evaluator to determine whether the person poses a foreseeable risk to reoffend. The court must determine, by clear and convincing evidence, the person is no longer a foreseeable risk to reoffend and that it is in the best interest of justice to grant the motion for removal. § 23-3-463(E)-(F). |
| SD | Life. S.D. Codified Laws §§ 22-24B-2, 22-24B-2.1, 22-24B-19, 22-24B-19.1. | Certain Tier I registrants convicted of statutory rape and related crimes may petition circuit court of residence for removal after 5 years. §§ 22-24B-17, 19. Certain tier II offenders convicted of incest/bestiality may petition court for removal after 25 years. § 22-24B-19.1. Registrants of any tier may petition for exemption from community safety zone restrictions only after 10 years. § 22-24B-27. Not available for offense against child under 13. § 22-24B-27(5). Registration terminates upon dismissal following deferred adjudication under § 23A-27-14. § 22-24B-2. Pardon may relieve registration obligation, per specific provisions in pardon regulations. See http://doc.sd.gov/documents/forms/ clemency/ExecutiveClemency Instructions.pdf. | Tier I juvenile and youthful registrants convicted of certain age-based offenses may petition for termination after 5 years. § 22-24B-19. Registration terminates upon dismissal following suspended adjudication under § 26-8C-4. § 22-24B-2. | All relief (other than deferred adjudication): Not available for sex offense recidivists. §§ 22-24B-19(4), 22-24B-19.1(4), 22-24B-27(2). Court considers full criminal record. §§ 22-24B-18(4), 22-24B-26(4). | 25 year tier II/Tier I juvenile or youthful registrants: Must demonstrate that petitioner does not pose a risk or danger to the community. §§ 22-24B-19(6), 22-24B-19.1(6). Community safety zone restrictions: Court must find that petitioner is not likely to offend again. § 22-24B-28. Pardon: Board may require psychosexual evaluation. Executive Clemency Application Information and Instructions, South Dakota Board of Pardons And Paroles 3, http://doc.sd.gov/ documents/forms/ clemency/ ExecutiveClemencyInstructions.pdf. |
| TN | Life. Tenn. Code Ann. § 40-39-207. | Registrants with non-violent offenses may petition Tenn. Bureau of Investigation for termination after 10 years if victim was not 12 or younger / registrants with an offense of sexual contact with inmates may petition after 3 years. §§ 40-39-207(a)(1), (3). Judicial review of TBI denials. § 40-39-207(g). Out-of-state offenses, see § 40-39-207(i)(4) (may apply for relief to TBI the later of 10 years after supervision or 5 years after being added to TN registry). Aggravated prostitution relief: A person required to register solely due to a conviction for aggravated prostitution may petition the sentencing court any time after a verdict or finding of guilty, for termination of the registration requirements based on the person's status as a victim of human trafficking offense, a sexual offense, or domestic abuse. §§ 40-39-207(a)(4), 40-39-218. If the person is required to register due to a diversionary plea taken under § 40-35-313, they may file a request for termination of registration upon successful completion of a term of judicial diversion and dismissal of charges. § 40-39-207(a)(1). Expungement provides relief, § 40-39-207(a)(2), but sex offenses may not be expunged following diversion, § 40-32-101(a)(1)(D); see also 40-32-101(g) (ineligible for conviction expungement are: (1) any felony or misdemeanor sex offense requiring registration, committed prior to November 1, 1989; (2) any felonies committed on or after November 1, 1989, except listed class E felonies; and listed misdemeanors committed on or after November 1, 1989). Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority on point. | Certain violent juvenile registrants may petition for relief at age 25 if victim was not 12 or younger. § 40-39-207(j)(3). Juvenile/youthful sex offenses are ineligible for expungement, § 37-1-153(f)(1)(A). | Non-violent registrants: No prior/subsequent sex offense adjudication/conviction. § 40-39-207(c), (g), (j)(1)-(2). Violent juvenile offender: No subsequent sex offense conviction. § 40-39-207(j)(3). Aggravated prostitution relief: must only be required based on aggravated prostitution and not have any sex offense conviction during registration. § 40-39-218(c). | Aggravated prostitution relief: court must determine petitioner has been a victim of human trafficking, a sexual offense, or domestic abuse, and that "the person should not be required to comply" with the registration requirements. § 40-39-218(c)(4). Successful completion of diversion: The person is removed from the registry and is no longer required to register if it is determined that they have successfully completed diversion. § 40-39-207(a)(1). |
| TX | Life/10 years, depending on offense. Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 62.101(a), (c)(2). Juveniles (including those tried in criminal court): 10 years. art. 62.101(b), (c)(1). | May petition sentencing court for early termination after completion of minimum federal registration period (see Texas Offenses Tiered Under the Federal Adam Walsh Act at https://records.txdps.state. tx.us/SexOffender/). Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 62.404, 62.405. Does not apply to registration as condition of parole, mandatory supervision, or community supervision. art. 62.408. Pardon relieves obligation to register only if granted for innocence. art. 62.002(c). Sex offenses are ineligible for sealing following deferred adjudication. Tex. Gov't Code § 411.0735(c-1). | Certain youthful registrants may petition for relief at sentencing or any time thereafter. Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 62.301(b). Juvenile registrants may move for relief at any time. art. 62.352, 62.354. Juvenile records may not be sealed until obligation to register is terminated. Tex. Fam. Code § 58.256(d)(2). | Youthful registrants: No prior/subsequent registerable offense. Tex. Code Crim. Proc. art. 62.301(b)(1). | Termination after minimum federal period: Court has discretion. art. 62.405. Determination based on individual risk assessment. See art. 62.403. Must prove that offense qualifies under federal schedule. art. 62.405. Youthful offenders: Court must find by preponderance of evidence that exemption does not threaten public safety/conduct was consensual/exemption is in the best interest of victim and justice. art. 62.301(d). Juveniles: Court must determine that protection of the public would not be increased by registration, or increase in public protection is clearly outweighed by anticipated substantial harm to offender or their family. art. 62.352(a). |
| UT | Life/10 years following completion of sentence, depending on offense/recidivist status. Utah Code Ann. § 77-41-105(3)(a), (c). Juveniles: 10 years. § 77-41-105(3)(a), (c). Out of state offenses, see § 77-41-105(3)(b) (must register for time required by convicting jurisdiction if greater). | 10 year registrants convicted of less serious offenses may petition sentencing court 5 years after completion of sentence §§ 77-41-112(1)(a), 77-41-105(3)(c)(ii). A provision enacted in 2019 authorizes 10 year registrants to petition the court for relief from registration 10 years after sentence to probation or release on parole, if certain conditions relating to other convictions are met. § 77-41-112(1)(b). Expungement does not provide relief. § 77-41-109. Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority on point. See § 77-27-1(12). | A 2021 law (SB 50) allows for a person to request removal from the registry for an offense committed in Utah before the person is 18 years old, unless the person is an individual described in §§ 77-41-102(9)(f) or (17)(f). § 77-41-113 | 5 year relief for 10 year registrants: No conviction for any crime other than traffic offenses. § 77-41-112(1)(a). 10 year relief for 10 year registrants: no conviction for a class A misdemeanor or felony within the most recent 10-year period. § 77-41-112(b)(iii). | 5 year relief 10 year registrants: Court must determine that removal is not contrary to the interests of the public. § 77-41-112(6)(b). Must complete all ordered treatment, registration requirements, and restitution. § 77-41-112(1)(a). 10 year relief for 10 year registrants: must complete all ordered treatment, registration requirements, and restitution. § 77-41-112(1)(b). |
| VT | Life/10 years, depending on offense/recidivist status/designation. 13 V.S.A. § 5407(e), (f). Out of state offenses, see § 5407(a)(1). | No general provision for early termination. Registration obligation terminates after completion of deferred sentence agreement. § 5401(15). Expungement terminates registration obligation. CVR 28-050-002, 3.11(d). Registration obligations may not be relieved under Uniform Collateral Consequences of Conviction Act. 13 V.S.A. § 8012(a)(1). Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority on point. Termination of website posting upon expungement or pardon. CVR 28-050-002, 4.7. A person whose conviction is reversed and dismissed is not required to register and the information in the registry is removed and destroyed. 13 V.S.A. § 5413. | No registration for juvenile adjudications. | ||
| VA | Life. Va. Code Ann. § 9.1-908. Out of state offenses, see § 9.1-902(5)-(6). | Certain registrants may petition the court for termination after 15/25 years (from later of conviction/release), depending on offense. § 9.1-910. Registrants with a qualifying physical disability (including those ineligible to petition after 15/25 years) may petition for termination at any time. § 9.1-909(b). Obligation to register may be reinstated if the disability no longer exists. Id. Records are removed from the registry for a person who has been pardon or their conviction has been reversed. § 9.1-915. | No relief provisions specific to juveniles/youthful registrants. | 15/25 year relief: Not available for recidivists. § 9.1-910. Court considers complete criminal history. § 9.1-910. | 15/25 year relief: Court must be "satisfied that such person no longer poses a risk to public safety." § 9.1-910(a). Physical disability: Clear and convincing evidence that due to his physical condition the person (i) no longer poses a menace to the health and safety of others and (ii) is incapable of reregistering. § 9.1-909(b). |
| WA | Life ("indefinite")/15 years/10 years (from later of conviction/release), depending on offense/recidivist status. Wash. Rev. Code § 9A.44.140. Out of state offense, see § 9A.44.140(4) ("shall continue indefinitely," unless relief is granted under § 9A.44.142). | Registration: a registrant with a WA offense may petition the court for full relief after 10 years, or with an out of state offense after 15 years, but such relief is not available for sexually violent predators/certain class A felonies. § 9A.44.142(1)(b), (1)(c), (2)(a). In addition, registration terminates if "a court in the person's state of conviction has made an individualized determination that the person should not be required to register." § 9A.44.141(3)(a). Notification: May petition for termination of community notification requirements after 15 years without a subsequent disqualifying conviction. § 9A.44.142(2)(b). Certificate of discharge under § 9.94A.637 does not provide relief. § 9A.44.140(7). Sex offenses are ineligible for misdemeanor vacation. § 9.96.060(2)(e). Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority on point. See §§ 9.94A.030(11)(b), 9.94A.640 (1), (3). | People with juvenile offenses (including out of state offenses) may petition for full relief after 60/24 months, depending on offense. §§ 9A.44.143, 9A.44.142(1)(a). | Registration/notification: No subsequent conviction for disqualifying offense during waiting period. § 9A.44.142(1)(b), (c), (2)(a), (b). Juveniles: No subsequent conviction for disqualifying offense/failure to register. § 9A.44.143(2)(a), (b), (3)(a), (b). | Registration: Clear and convincing evidence that the petitioner is sufficiently rehabilitated to warrant removal from registry. § 9A.44.142(4)(a). Juveniles: Preponderance of evidence that the petitioner is sufficiently rehabilitated to warrant removal. § 9A.44.143(2)(c), (3)(c). |
| WV | Life/10 years, depending on offense/SVP status/recidivist status. W. Va. Code § 15-12-4(a). Out of state offenses, see §§ 15-12-2(b), 15-12-9(c). | No provision for early termination of registration obligations. Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority on point. | No registration for juvenile adjudications. | ||
| WI | Life/15 years, depending on offense/recidivist status/SVP status/court order. Wis. Stat. § 301.45(5). Out of state offenses, see § 301.45(5m) (life/15/10 years). | No provision for relief from lifetime registration if mandated by § 301.45(5)(b) or (5m)(b). Lifetime registration based on court-ordered lifetime supervision order under § 939.615: May petition the court for termination of supervision after 15 years. § 939.615(6). Upon termination of supervision, the court may order relief from registration obligations. § 301.45(5)(am)(2). Certain court-ordered registration based on depiction of nudity without consent terminates upon completion of sentence/satisfaction of court order. § 301.45(1p)(b). Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority on point. | Certain youthful registrants (where offense did not involve intercourse through violence/threat of violence) may petition for relief at any time. § 301.45(1m). Expungement of certain invasion of privacy convictions/adjudications upon completion of dispositional order relieves registration obligations. § 301.45(1p)(a). Available only to juveniles/offenders under 25. See §§ 938.355 (juveniles), 973.015 (persons under 25) for eligibility criteria. | Lifetime supervision order: No criminal conviction while under supervision. § 939.615(6)(b)(1). | Lifetime supervision order: Court must find "that lifetime supervision is no longer necessary to protect the public," § 939.615(6)(g), and may also order that the person is no longer required to register. § 939.615(6)(i). Court considers mandatory evaluation of physician/psychologist. § 939.615(6)(e). Youthful offenders: Court must determine "it is not necessary, in the interest of public protection, to require the person to comply with the reporting requirements." § 301.45(1m)(a)(3). |
| WY | Life. Wyo. Stat. § 7-19-304(a). | May petition the court in district where registered for relief after 25/10 years for less serious offenses. Wyo. Stat. § 7-19-304(a). Registration not required when charges dismissed following first offense deferred adjudication under § 7-13-301. § 7-19-301(a)(iii) Sex offenses ineligible for felony expungement. § 7-13-1502(a)(iv)(T). Pardon may relieve registration requirement but no authority on point. | Juvenile adjudication: May petition for relief after 10 years for certain offenses. § 7-19-304(a)(i). | No sex offense/felony conviction for 10/25 years prior to petition. § 7-19-304(d). | Must complete period of supervision/ordered treatment. § 7-19-304(d). |
| Fed | Life (Tier III)/25 years (Tier II), 15 years (Tier I). 34 U.S.C. § 20915(a) | Five-year reduction for Tier I offenders after 10 "clean" years. 34 U.S.C. § 20915(b)(2), | Tier III registrants adjudicated delinquent may be reduced to 25 years after 25 clean years. 34 U.S.C. § 20915(b) | During "clean" period," no conviction for any crime for which imprisonment of more than a year may be imposed; no sex offense. 34 U.S.C. § 20915(b) | "Clean record" means: (A) not being convicted of any offense for which imprisonment for more than 1 year may be imposed; (B) not being convicted of any sex offense; (C) successfully completing any periods of supervised release, probation, and parole; and (D) successfully completing of an appropriate sex offender treatment program certified by a jurisdiction or by the Attorney General. § 34 U.S.C. § 20915(b) |
* Limited terms run from completion of sentence, including any community supervision, unless otherwise noted
‡ Relief in case of reversal/acquittal only not separately noted. Waiting period runs from time of initial registration, unless otherwise noted.
† Waiting period runs from time of initial registration, unless otherwise noted.
± Applies to all seeking early termination, unless otherwise noted.