District of Columbia Pardon & Clemency — How to Apply
The District of Columbia has a unique situation: the President of the United States holds pardon power over DC code offenses (convictions from DC Superior Court). This makes DC pardons subject to the same process as federal pardons — applications go through the U.
Last updated: 2026-03-28. This is informational only, not legal advice.
Who Grants Pardons
Authority: Other
For DC Superior Court convictions, the President of the United States has pardon power (same as federal offenses). The DC Council has also created a local process for record sealing and expungement. DC does not have a Governor with pardon power.
Types of Clemency Available
Full Pardon
Presidential pardon officially forgiving the DC code offense.
Commutation
Presidential commutation reducing the sentence.
Eligibility Requirements
Waiting period: 5 years after completion of sentence (including probation, parole, and supervised release)
Clean record required: Yes — Must demonstrate good conduct and rehabilitation during the 5-year waiting period and beyond.
- Must have completed all terms of the sentence including restitution
- Must demonstrate need for the pardon (employment, licensing, etc.)
- Federal process applies — lengthy and competitive
How to Apply — Step by Step
- Submit a pardon application to the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Pardon Attorney (same as federal pardon process).
- Complete the formal application (form available on the DOJ website).
- Wait at least 5 years after completion of sentence before applying.
- The FBI conducts a background investigation.
- The Pardon Attorney's office reviews and makes a recommendation to the President.
- The President makes the final decision.
What a Pardon Does & Doesn't Do
Gun Rights
A presidential pardon can restore federal and DC firearm rights. However, the pardon must specifically address the firearm disability.
Voting Rights
DC allows all residents to vote, including currently incarcerated individuals. A pardon is not needed for voting.
Effect on Criminal Record
A presidential pardon does not expunge the DC record. DC has separate record sealing laws that are more accessible.
Employment
A presidential pardon is the highest form of clemency and is highly regarded by employers and licensing agencies.
Processing Time & Likelihood
Average processing time: 1 to 3+ years — the federal pardon process is very slow
Pardon rate: Very low — presidential pardons for DC offenses are extremely rare. Record sealing is far more accessible.
Cost: Free — no filing fee
Pardon vs. Expungement in District of Columbia
DC has strong record sealing laws (D.C. Code Section 16-801 et seq.) that allow sealing of many convictions after waiting periods. Record sealing is far more accessible and practical than seeking a presidential pardon. Most DC residents should pursue record sealing first.
Official Resources
- DOJ Office of the Pardon Attorney — Federal pardon application for DC offenses
- DC Public Defender Service — Civil Legal Services — Legal assistance for DC residents including record sealing
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can pardon DC convictions?
How do I apply for a pardon for a DC conviction?
Is there a faster way to clear my DC record?
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