---
title: "How long do I have to wait to expunge a Rhode Island record?"
description: "Rhode Island expungement waiting periods depend on the offense. Misdemeanors generally require 5 years from the date you complete your sentence including probation and payment of all fines. Felonies..."
url: https://www.chadbanklaw.com/faq-items/how-long-do-i-have-to-wait-to-expunge-a-rhode-island-record/
date: 2026-05-24
modified: 2026-05-24
author: "The Law Office of Chad F Bank"
type: avada_faq
lang: en
---

# How long do I have to wait to expunge a Rhode Island record?

Rhode Island expungement waiting periods depend on the offense. Misdemeanors generally require 5 years from the date you complete your sentence including probation and payment of all fines. Felonies require 10 years. Certain non-violent felonies may be eligible after 7 years under the Second Chance Law. Domestic violence misdemeanors carry a 3-year waiting period. DUI misdemeanors require 10 years (longer than standard misdemeanors). You must have no subsequent convictions during the waiting period. Decriminalized offenses (small-amount marijuana possession) may qualify for immediate expungement without any waiting period under the Second Chance Law's decriminalization provision.