You did what the court asked. You paid the price, literally and emotionally. But years later, that old DUI is still showing up like a scar you can’t hide: background checks, job interviews, even housing applications. So now you’re asking: Can you get a DUI expunged in Tennessee?
The short answer is that it depends on certain factors. But the long answer is worth reading because if you hope to clear your record, you need to know precisely what you’re up against and what steps you can take.
What Tennessee Law Says About DUI Expungement
Under current Tennessee law, a driving under the influence conviction cannot be expunged. That means if you plead guilty or are found guilty of a DUI, the record is permanent, even for first-time offenders. However, if your DUI case was dismissed, retired, or found not guilty, you can petition the court to have it expunged from your record.
How to Get a DUI Expunged If You Qualify
If you were arrested but never convicted, or if your case ended in a favorable outcome, the following steps can help you clear your record:
- File a petition with the criminal court in the jurisdiction that handled your case;
- Pay the required fee, which varies by county but usually falls between $100 and $350;
- Wait for the judge’s decision, which may grant the expungement if you meet all conditions.
Remember that specific time frames and conditions may apply even if your charge was dismissed. Working with a criminal defense attorney can help ensure you meet all requirements and deadlines. A lawyer can check if you qualify based on dismissal, retirement, or acquittal, and file on your behalf.
What Felonies Can Be Expunged in Tennessee?
Our state doesn’t forgive easily, but it does allow second chances for some. You might be eligible if your charge wasn’t a violent offense and you’ve stayed out of trouble since. While DUI convictions are not eligible, the state does allow for the expungement of some Class E felonies and misdemeanors, such as:
- Theft under $1,000,
- Forgery under $1,000, and
- Simple possession of drugs in some cases.
You must typically wait five years after completing your sentence to apply, and no other convictions should be on your record. You can discuss your charge with your attorney to determine whether it qualifies.
The Real-World Impact of a DUI on Your Record
A DUI conviction isn’t just a legal mark; it’s a real obstacle. Many Tennesseans discover too late how much that one mistake lingers. A DUI conviction can affect:
- Employment background checks,
- Housing applications,
- Auto insurance premiums, and
- College admissions or scholarships.
While you can’t erase a conviction, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Your lawyer may help pursue other relief, such as sealing associated records, appealing specific reporting issues, or correcting inaccurate data through the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI).
How Much Does It Cost to Get a DUI Expunged?
If you are eligible for expungement, the process will come with some fees because your DUI was dismissed or acquitted. Costs can include:
- Court filing fee typically between $100 and $350, depending on the county;
- Certified copy fee for obtaining documents related to your case; and
- Attorney fees if you hire legal help to handle your petition.
Some counties offer waivers or reduced fees for certain individuals. Check your local court or county expungement resources for up-to-date costs and payment options.
How Long Does It Take to Get a DUI Expunged?
On average, the process takes between two and six months. But don’t let the timeline fool you. Every day that your record remains public can affect your livelihood. Filing sooner starts the clock sooner. Here’s what impacts the process:
- The court’s current docket load,
- Whether additional documentation is required, and
- Processing times through the TBI.
Once expunged, your DUI should no longer appear in most public background checks.
Why You Still Need a Lawyer, Even If It Was Just One Mistake
You may be thinking: I already served my sentence. Why do I still need legal help? In reality, Tennessee’s expungement laws are complex. One wrong form, one missed deadline, and your chance at a clean slate could vanish. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys can:
- Help you determine if your DUI qualifies for expungement,
- File the correct petition and follow up with the court,
- Advocate for a hearing if your petition is challenged, and
- Advise you on other legal remedies that might improve your record.
At The Law Firm, PC, we know what it means to live with a mistake and fight for your future. Our team has been where many of our clients are now. This personal insight, combined with years of courtroom success, drives our unwavering commitment to assist you in moving forward with dignity and hope. We don’t just process paperwork. We fight for second chances.
Want Your Record Clean? Start Here
The law might not allow every DUI to disappear, but that doesn’t mean it should define your life. Whether your case is dismissible or you want help exploring other legal avenues, we’re here to guide you with honesty, grit, and real support. Let’s discuss your options and begin your journey toward a brighter future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Expunge a DUI After 10 Years in Tennessee?
Not if it was a conviction. Tennessee law does not currently allow any DUI convictions to be expunged, regardless of how much time has passed. Dismissed or not-guilty cases, however, may be eligible.
Does a DUI Stay on Your Record Forever in Tennessee?
Yes, if it was a conviction. It remains on your criminal record permanently, and employers and insurers can use it against you in future cases.
Can You Get a DUI Reduced to Reckless Driving in Tennessee?
Sometimes. A plea deal may result in a reduced charge, such as reckless driving or reckless endangerment, which might be eligible for expungement later if it’s a first-time offense.
Additional Reading
- Tennessee Courts, Expungement Eligibility and Requirements, link.
- Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), Frequently Asked Questions Expungement FAQs, link.
- Knox County District Attorney General, Expungements, link.
- General Sessions Court Clerk, Shelby County, Tennessee, Expungements, link.
- Office of the District Attorney, Nashville, Expungements, link.
- Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), Diversions, Expungements, & Dispositions, link.
- What Happens After You Get Arrested in Tennessee?
- 7 Ways to Find a Good Criminal Defense Attorney in Tennessee
Alan has spent his career standing up for those the system tries to push aside. With over a decade of experience in criminal and corporate law, he pairs sharp trial skills with a deep sense of empathy—earned through his own personal walk through the justice system.
At The Law Firm, PC, Alan personally handles each case, giving clients direct access, honest advice, and fierce representation every step of the way. He knows their stories matter—and he fights to make sure they’re heard.
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