New York's Clean Slate Act will automatically seal many criminal convictions without you having to apply. After a conviction is sealed, most employers and landlords won't see it on background checks and can't ask you about it.
This means that starting November 2024:
- Misdemeanors will be sealed after three years without new convictions
- Most felonies will be sealed after eight years without new convictions.
There are some limits:
- Sex offenses and non-drug Class A felonies won't be sealed.
- You must also finish any parole or probation before sealing happens.
- Some organizations can still see sealed records, including certain government agencies, nursing homes, schools, the DMV, Uber/Lyft, and law enforcement.
The courts have until November 2027 to seal all eligible convictions.
To check if your conviction is sealed, get a copy of your RAP sheet. Legal Action Center can help New York residents get one for free. Call them at (212) 243-1313 for help with your record.
Last Reviewed: May 7, 2025