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Pennsylvania Pardon & Clemency — How to Apply

Pennsylvania has a robust pardon process through the Board of Pardons, chaired by the Lieutenant Governor. Recent reforms under Lt.

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

Who Grants Pardons

Authority: Both

The Pennsylvania Board of Pardons reviews applications and makes recommendations to the Governor, who has final authority to grant pardons. The Board consists of the Lieutenant Governor (chair), Attorney General, and three members appointed by the Governor.

Types of Clemency Available

Full Pardon

Forgives the conviction and restores civil rights. Can make the conviction eligible for expungement.

Commutation

Reduction of sentence, including life sentences.

Eligibility Requirements

Waiting period: 5 years after completion of sentence (including probation/parole). Expedited review available for certain marijuana offenses.

Clean record required: Yes — Must have a clean record for the 5-year waiting period. Any new conviction restarts the clock.

Other requirements:
  • Must have completed all terms of the sentence including restitution
  • Must demonstrate rehabilitation and positive community involvement
  • Must present at the Board hearing if case is advanced

How to Apply — Step by Step

  1. Submit a pardon application to the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons (online portal available at pa.gov/pardons).
  2. Complete the application with conviction details, rehabilitation evidence, and personal statement.
  3. Pay a $15 application fee (fee waivers available).
  4. The Board reviews the application in a merit review hearing.
  5. If the Board advances your case, a public hearing is scheduled where you present your case.
  6. The Board votes — a majority recommends the pardon to the Governor.
  7. 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 Pennsylvania. A separate petition to the courts under 18 Pa.C.S. Section 6105(d) is required after receiving a pardon. A pardon is a prerequisite for gun rights restoration for many offenses.

Voting Rights

Pennsylvania automatically restores voting rights upon release from incarceration. People on probation and parole can vote. A pardon is not needed.

Effect on Criminal Record

A Governor's pardon in Pennsylvania makes the conviction eligible for expungement. After receiving a pardon, you can petition to expunge the record. This is a major benefit of the Pennsylvania pardon.

Employment

A pardon can dramatically improve employment prospects, especially combined with expungement. Pennsylvania also has 'ban the box' protections and a Clean Slate Act that automatically seals certain records.

Processing Time & Likelihood

Average processing time: 6 to 18 months — the process has been significantly streamlined in recent years

Pardon rate: Moderate to high — Pennsylvania has significantly increased its pardon rate in recent years, with hundreds of pardons granted annually

Cost: $15 application fee (fee waivers available for those who cannot afford it)

Pardon vs. Expungement in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania's Clean Slate Act automatically seals certain non-conviction records and some minor convictions. However, many felonies and serious misdemeanors are only eligible for expungement AFTER receiving a Governor's pardon. The strategy is: (1) check if Clean Slate auto-sealed anything, (2) pursue expungement for eligible offenses, (3) apply for a pardon for remaining convictions, (4) expunge pardoned convictions.

See the full Pennsylvaniaexpungement guide →

Official Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a pardon make my conviction eligible for expungement in Pennsylvania?
Yes — this is a key benefit of the Pennsylvania pardon. After receiving a Governor's pardon, you can petition to expunge the conviction from your record. Many offenses are only eligible for expungement after a pardon.
How do I apply for a pardon in Pennsylvania?
Apply online through the Board of Pardons portal at pa.gov/pardons. The process involves a merit review, a public hearing, and Governor approval. The application fee is $15 (waivers available).
How long does the pardon process take in Pennsylvania?
Typically 6 to 18 months from application to decision. The process has been significantly streamlined in recent years, with increased staffing and more frequent hearings.

Related Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania for advice about your specific situation.
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