How Idaho Renters Can Seal an Eviction Record

If you’ve experienced an eviction in Idaho, you might worry about its impact on your future housing. While Idaho does not allow every eviction record to be sealed, limited options may apply in certain situations. Understanding the process and requirements under Idaho law can help you protect your rental history.

Who Can Seal an Eviction Record in Idaho?

Most eviction records in Idaho are public by default. Sealing (also known as expungement) hides the eviction from public view—including landlords and background check companies. Idaho law allows eviction records to be sealed or expunged only in rare cases.

• The eviction case was dismissed, or the court found in your favor.
• You can prove extraordinary circumstances or miscarriages of justice.

Simply paying what you owe or reaching an agreement with your landlord usually does not qualify you to seal your record.

Which Court Handles Eviction Records in Idaho?

Evictions in Idaho are heard in the Idaho Magistrate Division of District Court. This court also decides on motions to seal or expunge records. Learn more at the Idaho Magistrate Court official website.

Relevant Idaho Laws

Eviction procedures and record keeping are governed by the Idaho Uniform Landlord and Tenant Law (Idaho Code Title 6, Chapter 3) and court rules on public records (Idaho Court Administrative Rule 32).

How to Request Sealing or Expungement of an Eviction Record

If your situation meets the narrow eligibility guidelines, you’ll need to file a motion (a formal written request) asking the court to seal or expunge your eviction record.

Step 1: Complete the Proper Motion Form

• Form Name: Motion to Seal Court Records or Motion to Expunge
• Where to Find: Idaho does not provide a standard statewide form online for eviction expungement. You can find sample motion forms and guidance on the Idaho Court Assistance Office (CAO) Forms Page. Use general motion templates if necessary.
• When to Use: After your eviction case has been resolved (especially if dismissed), or if you believe you have exceptional circumstances.

Example: If your eviction was dismissed because your landlord withdrew the complaint, you could complete a Motion to Seal Courts Records, stating the reasons and attaching proof.

Step 2: File the Motion with the Correct Court

• File your motion with the Idaho Magistrate Division that heard your eviction case. Include your old case number and supporting evidence.
• You may need to pay a filing fee or request a waiver if you cannot afford it. Use the Fee Waiver Application (CAO All 1-10.4) if needed.

Step 3: Attend the Hearing (if Scheduled)

The court may set a hearing to review your request. Be ready to explain why your record should be sealed under Idaho law. Bring copies of all supporting documents.

Step 4: Wait for the Judge’s Decision

The judge will review your case and decide whether to seal your eviction record. If your motion is granted, the court will update its records. Not all judges will order sealing—the process is discretionary and not guaranteed.

Official Idaho Forms Renters Can Use

• General Motion Template (no eviction-specific expungement form in Idaho) – Idaho Court Assistance Office Forms
  • Use this to request sealing/expungement. Provide your case details and reasons.
• Fee Waiver Application (CAO All 1-10.4) – Fee Waiver Form & Instructions
  • If you cannot afford filing fees, apply when submitting your motion.

Key Tips for Idaho Renters

• Double check your case for eligibility before filing—sealing is limited.
• Keep copies of all documents, including the court’s final order.
• If denied, your record remains public. Ask about potential appeals or legal support.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can anyone seal an eviction record in Idaho?
   No, only limited eviction cases—typically ones dismissed or with special circumstances—may qualify for sealing.
2. Are there standard Idaho forms for eviction record sealing?
   Idaho does not offer a specific statewide form. Use a general Motion to Seal from the Court Assistance Office.
3. How long does the process take?
   The timeline varies by court. It may take several weeks or months depending on whether a hearing is scheduled.
4. Does sealing remove the eviction from background checks?
   If your record is sealed, most public background checks will not show your eviction. However, the court and certain agencies might still see sealed case details.
5. What other options exist if I can’t seal my record?
   Consider providing your own written explanation and proof of rental history to future landlords, or seek local legal aid for advice.

Key Takeaways

• Idaho allows eviction record sealing only in limited situations, usually when the case was dismissed or there are special circumstances.
• File a Motion to Seal Court Records with the Idaho Magistrate Division using official court assistance forms.
• Support your request with evidence and be prepared for a court hearing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Idaho Court Assistance Office (guidance and forms for court filings)
• Idaho Legal Aid Services (free legal advice for eligible renters)
• Idaho Magistrate Court (find your court, case status, and contact info)
• Read Idaho Landlord-Tenant Statutes
• Dial 2-1-1 in Idaho to connect with housing support, rental assistance, or mediation services

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1. Idaho Uniform Landlord and Tenant Law (Idaho Code Title 6, Chapter 3)
2. Idaho Court Administrative Rule 32 – Public Records
3. Idaho Court Assistance Office Forms

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