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Tennessee Pardon & Clemency — How to Apply

Tennessee pardons are granted by the Governor with recommendations from the Board of Parole. Tennessee pardons are relatively rare.

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

Who Grants Pardons

Authority: Governor

The Governor of Tennessee has exclusive clemency power. The Board of Parole investigates applications and makes recommendations.

Types of Clemency Available

Full Pardon

Forgives the conviction and restores civil rights.

Commutation

Reduction of sentence.

Reprieve

Temporary delay of punishment.

Eligibility Requirements

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

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

Other requirements:
  • Must have completed all terms of the sentence
  • Must demonstrate rehabilitation
  • Consider applying for restoration of citizenship first, which is more accessible

How to Apply — Step by Step

  1. Submit a clemency petition to the Tennessee Board of Parole.
  2. Complete the petition with conviction details and rehabilitation evidence.
  3. The Board investigates and may schedule a hearing.
  4. The Board makes a recommendation to the Governor.
  5. The Governor reviews and makes the final decision.

What a Pardon Does & Doesn't Do

Gun Rights

A pardon can restore state firearm rights. Tennessee also allows gun rights restoration through the courts for certain offenses. Federal restrictions may still apply.

Voting Rights

Tennessee requires restoration of citizenship to restore voting rights. This is granted by the courts or through clemency. Automatic restoration does not occur for most felonies.

Effect on Criminal Record

A pardon does not automatically expunge the record. Tennessee has separate expungement provisions.

Employment

A pardon and/or restoration of citizenship can help with employment and licensing.

Processing Time & Likelihood

Average processing time: 6 to 18 months

Pardon rate: Low

Cost: Free — no filing fee

Pardon vs. Expungement in Tennessee

Tennessee allows expungement of certain offenses after waiting periods. Restoration of citizenship (a court process) is more accessible than a full pardon for restoring rights. The strategy is: (1) expunge what is eligible, (2) seek restoration of citizenship, (3) pursue a full pardon if additional relief is needed.

See the full Tennesseeexpungement guide →

Official Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What is restoration of citizenship in Tennessee?
Restoration of citizenship is a court process that restores civil rights (including voting) that were lost due to a felony conviction. It's more accessible than a Governor's pardon and is the recommended first step for rights restoration.
How do I apply for a pardon in Tennessee?
Submit a clemency petition to the Tennessee Board of Parole. The Board investigates and recommends to the Governor.
Do I need a pardon to vote in Tennessee?
You need either restoration of citizenship (court process) or a Governor's pardon to restore voting rights for most felony convictions. Tennessee is one of the few states that does not automatically restore voting rights.

Related Tennessee 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 Tennessee for advice about your specific situation.
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