What is Restoration of Rights?
Restoration of Rights is the legal process of regaining civil and constitutional rights.
Important Information
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.
A New Day for Voting Rights in Virginia
November 3, 2026 marked an historic turning point for civil rights in the Commonwealth of Virginia. On that day, Virginia voters approved a constitutional amendment that changes how voting rights are restored to individuals with felony convictions.
Virginians who have been convicted of a felony will no longer have to petition the Governor to regain their voting rights. Instead, voting rights will be automatically restored upon release from incarceration. No individual application, gubernatorial approval, or special petition will be required.
This is a significant change in a system that has been part of Virginia's history for generations.
For those impacted, please visit https://www.elections.virginia.gov/ for the latest information on how to register to vote.
What does this mean for Virginians?
Beginning January 1, 2027:
- Individuals released from incarceration for a felony conviction will automatically regain their voting rights.
- They will no longer need to petition the Governor for restoration of those rights.
- The restoration of these political rights will be established by the Virginia Constitution rather than left to the discretion of individual governors.
It is important to remember that automatic restoration of these rights does not mean automatic voter registration. Eligible individuals must still register to vote.
If your right to vote was previously restored by a Governor, you can enter your information in the system below to receive a copy of your grant order.
Expungements
Please be advised that the Office of the Governor does not have jurisdiction over expungements. If a case resulted in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal, you must petition the Circuit Court in the jurisdiction where the charge was filed to request an expungement. We encourage you to contact that Circuit Court directly for assistance with your inquiry.
To learn more about the record‑sealing law that took effect on July 1, 2026, please visit https://vscc.virginia.gov/sealing.asp for additional information to determine whether it applies to your situation.
