Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974

Rehabilitation of Offenders

Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, criminal convictions can become ‘spent’ or ignored after a rehabilitation period, although they remain on the Police National Computer. The rehabilitation period varies depending on the sentence or order imposed by the court and the jurisdiction in which the conviction occurred. Rehabilitation periods also change from time to time.

For the latest position, refer to the following guidance:

• England and Wales - Rehabilitation Periods
• Scotland - Previous convictions and alternatives to prosecution: disclosure periods
• Northern Ireland - Rehabilitation of Offenders (Northern Ireland) Order 1978