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Hawaii Pardon & Clemency — How to Apply

Hawaii pardons are granted by the Governor with recommendations from the Hawaii Paroling Authority. Pardons in Hawaii are rare.

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

Who Grants Pardons

Authority: Governor

The Governor of Hawaii has clemency power. The Hawaii Paroling Authority reviews applications and makes recommendations.

Types of Clemency Available

Full Pardon

Forgives the conviction and restores civil rights.

Conditional Pardon

Pardon with specific conditions.

Commutation

Reduction of sentence.

Eligibility Requirements

Waiting period: Must have completed sentence. No specific statutory waiting period.

Clean record required: Yes — Must demonstrate rehabilitation and a clean record since the conviction.

Other requirements:
  • Must have completed all terms of the sentence
  • Must demonstrate rehabilitation and positive community involvement

How to Apply — Step by Step

  1. Submit a clemency petition to the Governor's office through the Hawaii Paroling Authority.
  2. Complete the application with conviction details and evidence of rehabilitation.
  3. The Paroling Authority investigates the application.
  4. The Authority makes a recommendation to the Governor.
  5. The Governor makes the final decision.

What a Pardon Does & Doesn't Do

Gun Rights

A pardon may restore state firearm rights. Hawaii has some of the strictest gun laws in the nation, and a pardon may not be sufficient to obtain a firearms permit. Federal restrictions also apply.

Voting Rights

Hawaii automatically restores voting rights upon completion of sentence. A pardon is not needed.

Effect on Criminal Record

A pardon does not automatically expunge the record. Hawaii has limited expungement options (primarily for arrest records, not convictions).

Employment

A pardon demonstrates rehabilitation and can help with employment and licensing.

Processing Time & Likelihood

Average processing time: 6 to 12+ months

Pardon rate: Very low — Hawaii Governors have historically granted very few pardons

Cost: Free — no filing fee

Pardon vs. Expungement in Hawaii

Hawaii allows expungement of arrest records in certain circumstances but has very limited options for conviction records. A pardon does not expunge the record. For conviction relief, a pardon from the Governor is the primary option.

See the full Hawaiiexpungement guide →

Official Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for a pardon in Hawaii?
Submit a clemency petition through the Hawaii Paroling Authority, which investigates and makes a recommendation to the Governor. The Governor has final decision-making authority.
Does a pardon clear my record in Hawaii?
No. A pardon does not expunge or seal your criminal record in Hawaii. It officially forgives the conviction but leaves it on your record.
Can I expunge a conviction in Hawaii?
Hawaii's expungement law primarily covers arrest records, not convictions. For conviction relief, a Governor's pardon is the main option.

Related Hawaii 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 Hawaii for advice about your specific situation.
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