North Carolina · DWI · Checked October 2026
Can a DWI Be Expunged in North Carolina?
Can a DWI Be Expunged in North Carolina?
Whether a DWI can come off your record in North Carolina, and how long it counts against you.
- Expungement or sealing
- Not available: an offense involving impaired driving is not eligible for expunction
- Lookback period
- 7 years
Expungement or Sealing in North Carolina
not available: an offense involving impaired driving is not eligible for expunction
Rules in North Carolina
N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-145.5(a1) excludes impaired driving offenses from nonviolent conviction expunction.
How Long It Counts for Repeat Offenses in North Carolina
7 years.N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-179(c)(1); § 20-19(d), (e); § 20-138.5(a)
Official source: how long it counts for repeat offenses (North Carolina)
More on DWI Law in North Carolina
See the full overview of DWI laws in North Carolina and read about how long a DUI stays on your record.
- North Carolina DWI Penalties: First, Second and Third Offense
- DWI License Suspension in North Carolina: Hearing Deadline and Hardship License
- proof of financial responsibility (insurer certificate or policy binder) Insurance After a DWI in North Carolina
- Ignition Interlock Rules in North Carolina
- Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in North Carolina
This page summarizes North Carolina law from official sources, checked October 2026. It isn't legal advice; a lawyer licensed in North Carolina can advise on your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a DWI Be Expunged or Sealed in North Carolina?
not available: an offense involving impaired driving is not eligible for expunction