SecondChanceInfosecondchanceinfo.com

Georgia Pardon & Clemency — How to Apply

Georgia is unique in that the Governor has no pardon power — the State Board of Pardons and Paroles has exclusive clemency authority. The Board grants pardons, commutations, reprieves, and restoration of civil rights.

Last updated: 2026-03-28. This is informational only, not legal advice.

Who Grants Pardons

Authority: Board of Pardons

The State Board of Pardons and Paroles has exclusive authority to grant pardons in Georgia. The Governor cannot grant pardons. Georgia is one of the few states where the pardon board acts independently.

Types of Clemency Available

Full Pardon

Official forgiveness of the conviction. Does not erase the record but signifies the state's forgiveness.

Conditional Pardon

Pardon with conditions that must be maintained.

Commutation

Reduction of sentence.

Reprieve

Temporary postponement of punishment.

Eligibility Requirements

Waiting period: 5 years after completion of sentence for a pardon. For restoration of civil rights (without a full pardon), rights are automatically restored upon completion of sentence.

Clean record required: Yes — Must have completed all sentence requirements and have no pending charges. Must demonstrate rehabilitation.

Other requirements:
  • Must have completed all terms of the sentence
  • Must show evidence of rehabilitation and community involvement
  • New evidence of innocence strengthens an application for a pardon of innocence

How to Apply — Step by Step

  1. Submit a pardon application to the Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles.
  2. Complete the application with conviction details, rehabilitation evidence, and personal statement.
  3. The Board conducts an investigation including background check and victim notification.
  4. The Board reviews the application and may schedule a hearing.
  5. The Board votes on whether to grant the pardon.

What a Pardon Does & Doesn't Do

Gun Rights

A pardon can restore state firearm rights if specifically granted by the Board. Federal restrictions may still apply.

Voting Rights

Georgia automatically restores voting rights upon completion of sentence (including probation/parole). A pardon is not needed for voting.

Effect on Criminal Record

A pardon does not expunge or seal the record. Georgia has a separate record restriction process for certain offenses.

Employment

A pardon can help with employment and demonstrates official state forgiveness.

Processing Time & Likelihood

Average processing time: 6 to 18 months

Pardon rate: Low to moderate — the Board considers many applications but grants pardons selectively

Cost: Free — no filing fee

Pardon vs. Expungement in Georgia

Georgia allows record restriction (sealing) for certain offenses, including first offender treatment and some misdemeanors. Record restriction is more accessible than a pardon. For offenses ineligible for restriction, a pardon is the primary option for relief.

See the full Georgiaexpungement guide →

Official Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Georgia Governor grant a pardon?
No. Georgia is one of the few states where the Governor has no pardon power. Only the State Board of Pardons and Paroles can grant pardons in Georgia.
How do I apply for a pardon in Georgia?
Submit an application to the Georgia State Board of Pardons and Paroles. The Board will investigate, potentially hold a hearing, and vote on whether to grant the pardon.
Does a pardon clear my record in Georgia?
No. A pardon does not expunge or seal your criminal record in Georgia. It officially forgives the conviction but does not remove it from your record.

Related Georgia Pages

Related Resources on This Site

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Pardon and clemency laws change frequently. Consult a qualified attorney in Georgia for advice about your specific situation.
← Florida
Back to all states
Hawaii→

All states

ALAKAZARCACOCTDEDCFLGAHIIDILINIAKSKYLAMEMDMAMIMNMSMOMTNENVNHNJNMNYNCNDOHOKORPARISCSDTNTXUTVTVAWAWVWIWYFederal