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Information about who can ask to have their misdemeanor conviction dismissed and different options to consider depending on your situation.

The guide offers information for someone interested in getting a Certificate of Rehabilitation and pardon. It explains what a Certificate of Rehabilitation does and does not do, who is eligible, and how to apply. If you get a Certificate of Rehabilitation it gets sent to the Governor as your application for a pardon.

Since 2021, California has had a tiered system for sex offender registration (Penal Code section 290 registrants). Depending on what tier you are in and how long you've registered, you may be able to ask (petition) the court to end your duty to register.

You must continue to register unless and until you have filed a petition and a judge

If you are not a United States citizen, your criminal record can affect your ability to get legal status and to keep your status. Your criminal record can also put you at risk of being deported or of being denied re-entry if you leave the United States.

The California Constitution gives the Governor the right to pardon someone convicted of a crime in California. A pardon can restore some, but not all, rights lost due to a conviction. It does not erase or seal a record. California Constitution, Article 5, §8.

Pardons are very rare and given out in exceptional circumstances.