Secretary of the Commonwealth Restoration of Rights

With your Rights Restored You Can


Vote


Become a notary public


Serve on a jury


Run for public office

Governor Northam has updated his eligibility criteria for restoration of civil rights.  Effective March 16, 2021, individuals are eligible to have their rights restored after being released from incarceration.

Please note: The Governor does not have the authority to restore firearms rights. If you have had your civil rights restored and are seeking restoration of your firearm rights, please contact your local circuit court.  

Are Your Rights Restored?

Anyone convicted of a felony in Virginia automatically loses their civil rights - the right to vote, serve on a jury, run for office, become a notary public and carry a firearm. The Constitution of Virginia gives the Governor the sole discretion to restore civil rights, not including firearm rights. Individuals seeking restoration of their civil rights are encouraged to contact the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office. 

  • To be eligible for restoration of civil rights, an individual must be free from any term of incarceration resulting from felony conviction(s).

  • Individuals are encouraged to contact the Secretary of the Commonwealth to request restoration of their civil rights by using the button below or by calling (804) 692-0104.

  • The Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office also works with the Department of Corrections to proactively identify individuals who have been released and may be eligible to have their rights restored.

Check the Status of Your Civil Rights

Request Your Rights Be Restored


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Changing Lives