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Illinois Pardon & Clemency — How to Apply

Illinois pardons are granted by the Governor after investigation by the Prisoner Review Board. Illinois Governors have been relatively active in granting pardons, especially Governor Pritzker.

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

Who Grants Pardons

Authority: Governor

The Governor of Illinois has exclusive clemency power. The Prisoner Review Board investigates applications and makes non-binding recommendations to the Governor.

Types of Clemency Available

Full Pardon

Official forgiveness of the conviction. Makes the conviction eligible for expungement.

Conditional Pardon

Pardon granted with specific conditions.

Commutation

Reduction of sentence.

Reprieve

Temporary delay of sentence.

Eligibility Requirements

Waiting period: No formal waiting period, but must have completed sentence. Typically at least 3 years of clean record is expected.

Clean record required: Yes — Must demonstrate rehabilitation and a clean record since completion of sentence.

Other requirements:
  • Must have completed all terms of the sentence
  • Must show why a pardon is needed (employment, licensing, immigration, etc.)
  • Must demonstrate rehabilitation and good citizenship

How to Apply — Step by Step

  1. Submit a clemency petition to the Illinois Prisoner Review Board.
  2. Complete the petition with conviction details, rehabilitation evidence, and personal statement.
  3. The Prisoner Review Board investigates and may schedule a hearing.
  4. The Board makes a non-binding recommendation to the Governor.
  5. The Governor reviews and makes the final decision.

What a Pardon Does & Doesn't Do

Gun Rights

A Governor's pardon does not automatically restore firearm rights in Illinois. A separate Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card application must be approved by Illinois State Police. A pardon improves chances of FOID approval.

Voting Rights

Illinois automatically restores voting rights upon release from incarceration. A pardon is not needed for voting.

Effect on Criminal Record

A Governor's pardon in Illinois makes the conviction eligible for expungement. This is a critical benefit — many offenses that are not otherwise eligible for expungement become eligible after a pardon.

Employment

A pardon, especially followed by expungement, significantly improves employment prospects. Illinois law restricts employer use of conviction records, and a pardon strengthens these protections.

Processing Time & Likelihood

Average processing time: 6 to 18 months

Pardon rate: Moderate to high — Governor Pritzker has granted more pardons than many of his predecessors

Cost: Free — no filing fee

Pardon vs. Expungement in Illinois

Illinois has some of the strongest expungement and sealing laws in the nation. Many offenses can be sealed or expunged after waiting periods. However, some convictions are only eligible for expungement AFTER receiving a Governor's pardon. So the strategy is often: (1) seal/expunge what you can, (2) seek a pardon for remaining convictions, (3) expunge pardoned convictions.

See the full Illinoisexpungement guide →

Official Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a pardon make my conviction eligible for expungement in Illinois?
Yes — this is one of the most important benefits of an Illinois Governor's pardon. Many convictions that are not otherwise eligible for expungement become eligible after receiving a pardon. After the pardon, you file a separate petition to expunge the record.
How do I apply for a pardon in Illinois?
Submit a clemency petition to the Illinois Prisoner Review Board. The Board investigates, may hold a hearing, and makes a non-binding recommendation to the Governor, who makes the final decision.
Does a pardon restore gun rights in Illinois?
A pardon does not automatically restore firearm rights. You must still apply for a Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card through Illinois State Police. However, a pardon significantly improves your chances of FOID approval.

Related Illinois 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 Illinois for advice about your specific situation.
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