SecondChanceInfosecondchanceinfo.com

Kansas Pardon & Clemency — How to Apply

Kansas pardons are granted by the Governor with recommendations from the Prisoner Review Board. Kansas also offers expungement for certain offenses after waiting periods.

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

Who Grants Pardons

Authority: Governor

The Governor of Kansas has clemency power. The Kansas Prisoner Review Board investigates applications and makes recommendations.

Types of Clemency Available

Full Pardon

Forgives the conviction and restores civil rights.

Commutation

Reduction of sentence.

Eligibility Requirements

Waiting period: No statutory waiting period for pardons, but must have completed sentence

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

Other requirements:
  • Must have completed all terms of the sentence
  • Must demonstrate rehabilitation

How to Apply — Step by Step

  1. Submit a clemency petition to the Kansas Prisoner Review Board.
  2. Complete the petition with conviction details and rehabilitation evidence.
  3. The Board investigates and makes a recommendation to the Governor.
  4. The Governor reviews and makes the final decision.

What a Pardon Does & Doesn't Do

Gun Rights

A pardon can restore state firearm rights. Kansas also allows expungement which can help with gun rights. Federal restrictions may still apply.

Voting Rights

Kansas 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. Kansas has separate expungement provisions.

Employment

A pardon can help with employment and licensing.

Processing Time & Likelihood

Average processing time: 6 to 12 months

Pardon rate: Low

Cost: Free — no filing fee

Pardon vs. Expungement in Kansas

Kansas allows expungement of certain offenses after waiting periods (3-5 years for misdemeanors, 5-10 years for felonies). Expungement is more accessible than a pardon for eligible offenses.

See the full Kansasexpungement guide →

Official Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for a pardon in Kansas?
Submit a clemency petition to the Kansas Prisoner Review Board. The Board investigates and recommends to the Governor, who makes the final decision.
Should I seek expungement or a pardon in Kansas?
For most people, expungement is the better first option. Kansas allows expungement of many offenses after waiting periods. A pardon should be considered when expungement is not available.
Does a pardon expunge my record in Kansas?
No. A pardon and expungement are separate processes in Kansas.

Related Kansas 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 Kansas for advice about your specific situation.
← Iowa
Back to all states
Kentucky→

All states

ALAKAZARCACOCTDEDCFLGAHIIDILINIAKSKYLAMEMDMAMIMNMSMOMTNENVNHNJNMNYNCNDOHOKORPARISCSDTNTXUTVTVAWAWVWIWYFederal