A DUI/DWI conviction will appear on a criminal background check requested by a prospective employer, landlord, or licensing authority, for example. Generally, the only way to remove a DUI/DWI conviction from appearing in some or all of such background checks is to have it expunged or sealed—which is only possible in limited circumstances.
In Massachusetts, a DUI (driving under the influence) or DWI (driving while intoxicated) conviction is a criminal offense and will appear on a criminal background check. This can affect an individual's opportunities when it comes to employment, housing, or obtaining certain professional licenses. Massachusetts law does allow for the sealing of criminal records, including DUI convictions, under certain conditions. To have a DUI conviction sealed, a specific period of time must pass—5 years for a misdemeanor and 10 years for a felony—after which an individual can petition the court for sealing. Expungement, which is the complete destruction of the record, is generally not available for DUI convictions in Massachusetts, except in very limited circumstances, such as a proven case of identity fraud or a wrongful conviction. It's important to note that even if a DUI record is sealed, it may still be visible to certain entities, such as law enforcement and some licensing authorities.