How do I remove or expunge my criminal record?

You can apply to have certain convictions expunged (removed) from your record under section 271B of the Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Act No. 51 of 1977).

What is expungement? 

Expungement permanently removes a qualifying conviction from the SAPS Criminal Record Centre—it’s as if the conviction never existed. This can help with employment, travel, or housing. This service is free and administered by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. 

Who qualifies?

You can apply if:

1. 10 years have passed since the conviction date.
2. In those 10 years, you’ve not served direct imprisonment—only one of:
   • Corporal punishment,
   • Sentence postponed or you were cautioned and discharged,
   • Fine up to R20 000,
   • Imprisonment with option to pay fine (max R20 000),
   • Suspended sentence,
   • Correctional supervision,
   • Periodical imprisonment
3. You’ve no new convictions over that period leading to imprisonment without fine.
4. If listed on the National Sex Offenders Register or Child Protection Register, you must submit proof your name has been removed. 

You do not qualify if you were sentenced to direct imprisonment (without option of fine), or fined over R20 000, or convicted of sexual offences against children/mentally disabled persons without removal from those registers. 

What is the application process?

1. Get a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) from the SAPS Criminal Record Centre, showing your convictions and confirming the 10-year lapse.
2. Complete Form J744 (Form A), available in both English and Afrikaans on the Department of Justice website.
3. Gather required documents:
   • PCC,
   • ID document,
   • Proof of removal from sex-offender or child protection register (if applicable).
4. Submit your application by post or in person to:
   Director‑General: Department of Justice and CD  
   Private Bag X81, Pretoria 0001  
   (Momentum Centre, 329 Pretorius St, Pretoria)
5. Processing time: generally 75 days ( 3 months). Enquiries are discouraged before 75 days as they slow processing.
6. If approved, the Department issues an expungement certificate to SAPS (within 14 days), and SAPS confirms to you in 21 working days with written notice.
7. If refused, you’ll receive a letter outlining the reasons. 

More information

• Department of Justice & Constitutional Development: forms, FAQs & expungement policies.
• SAPS Criminal Record Centre: to obtain your PCC.