Can all eviction records in Florida be sealed?

No, only certain cases—typically those dismissed or ruled in the renter's favor—are eligible based on Florida law.

How long does it take to seal an eviction record in Florida?

It may take several months for review, including time to obtain the required Certificate of Eligibility.

Does sealing an eviction record remove it from all background checks?

Sealing hides the record from public searches, but courts and some agencies may still access it.

Can I seal an eviction record by myself, without a lawyer?

Yes, but it helps to consult the County Clerk or legal aid organizations to ensure you follow all requirements.

Where do I check the status of my Florida eviction record sealing?

You can check with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement or your County Clerk of Court.

How to Seal an Eviction Record in Florida: Renter Guide

Evictions & Lease Violations Florida published: June 21, 2025

If you've faced eviction in Florida, you may wonder how this may impact your future rental opportunities. Sealing your eviction record can help protect your rental history, making it easier to move forward. This article explains, step by step, how Florida renters can try to seal an eviction record, including legal requirements, forms, and helpful government resources.

What Does It Mean To Seal an Eviction Record?

When a court record is "sealed," it is hidden from the general public. Landlords and background check companies typically can't access sealed eviction records, but courts and some government agencies can. In Florida, sealing is different from "expungement"—the latter removes a record entirely. Sealing protects your privacy and improves your chances of finding housing after an eviction.

Are Eviction Records Eligible for Sealing in Florida?

Florida renters can sometimes request to seal eviction court records under limited circumstances. Common qualifying scenarios include:

The case was dismissed by the court.
You won your case, and a final judgment of eviction was not entered against you.
In rare instances, even some resolved cases can be considered if you have no prior convictions and meet strict court requirements.

Under Florida Statutes Section 943.059 — Sealing of criminal history records, most evictions are civil cases, but some may result in related criminal records (such as criminal trespass after eviction), especially if a court order was violated.^[1]

How to Request to Seal an Eviction Record in Florida

The process generally involves petitioning the court where your eviction was handled. Here is an overview, with details in the next section:

Obtain your case details from the Clerk of Court in the county where the eviction took place.
Check if your case meets eligibility requirements for sealing or expungement.
Complete and file the necessary official forms.
Attend a court hearing if scheduled.
If granted, your record will be sealed, but not erased — and only certain parties may access it in the future.

Official Forms Needed

Florida Petition to Seal or Expunge (Form 12.902(c))
Available through your local County Clerk of Court.
Example: If your eviction case was dismissed, file this form in the county where the eviction took place to ask the judge to seal the record.
Application for Certification of Eligibility (by Florida Department of Law Enforcement)
FDLE Seal & Expunge Process.
When used: Submit before making your court filing to confirm you are eligible.
Download the official Application for Certification of Eligibility.

Always check with your local Clerk of Court to confirm requirements and get help submitting forms. The procedures and accepted forms may differ slightly depending on the county.

Before filing, review your paperwork and consult the County Clerk’s office or a legal aid group to check eligibility. The court may require a hearing before making a decision.

Action Steps: Sealing an Eviction Record in Florida

1. Obtain your case records: Visit the Clerk of Court in the county where your eviction was filed and request a copy of your case.
2. Check eligibility: Review Florida sealing and expungement requirements through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
3. Get Certificate of Eligibility: Complete and mail the FDLE Application for Certification of Eligibility. Wait for approval before proceeding.
4. File Petition to Seal: Submit your petition and eligibility certificate to the same county court, paying attention to all filing requirements.
5. Attend hearing (if scheduled): Some judges require a hearing; be prepared to explain your situation.
6. Await decision: The court will inform you by mail if your petition is granted (or denied). If granted, the public can no longer view your case details.

Some counties may require additional documentation, so double-check with your local Clerk’s office. The Florida Courts help page provides self-help information for tenants who do not have an attorney.

Which Tribunal Handles Florida Residential Tenancy and Evictions?

Eviction cases in Florida are handled by the Florida State Courts, specifically in the County Court’s Civil Division where the rental property is located. To find your local court, visit the Directory of Florida Courts.

Relevant Florida Tenancy Laws

Evictions and related court procedures fall under the Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83, Florida Statutes) and the sealing/expungement process under Section 943.059, Florida Statutes.^[2]

FAQ: Florida Eviction Record Sealing

Can all eviction records in Florida be sealed?
Not all can. Usually, you must have a case that was dismissed or ruled in your favor, and meet eligibility requirements by law.
Does sealing an eviction record remove the eviction from my history completely?
No. Sealing makes the record hidden from the public, but it can still be seen by courts and some government agencies.
How long does it take to seal an eviction record in Florida?
It can take several months, including time needed to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility and for the court’s review process.
Can I seal an eviction record by myself?
Yes, but reviewing forms with the County Clerk or seeking assistance from legal aid services is helpful for the process.
Where can I check the status of my sealing application?
Check with the FDLE Seal & Expunge Unit or the Clerk of the Court where you filed your petition.

Summary: Key Takeaways

In Florida, only some eviction records are eligible to be sealed, usually if the case was dismissed or in your favor.
Sealing a record requires a Certificate of Eligibility and a petition through the local court system.
Start the process by contacting the County Clerk and reviewing the FDLE requirements; free resources are available to help renters navigate these steps.

Although the process can be complex, many renters have found support through county clerks and non-profit legal aid organizations.