Virginia restored civil rights for 100,000 people with past felonies

Virginia has historically stripped people convicted of felonies of the right to vote, serve on a jury, run for office, and become a notary public. A federal court ruled in January 2026 that Virginia may withhold voting rights only for convictions tied to felonies recognized in 1870. People with other felony convictions who are no longer incarcerated can register without a governor’s order, though they may still need one to regain the other civil rights. Spanberger’s administration says it issued restoration orders to 100,000 formerly incarcerated people from Jan. 17 through Aug. 27; the count was 66,085 on July 31.

You may not have to apply. The Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office proactively identifies people who may qualify, reviews each case, and works with law enforcement to verify eligibility. You can also apply or check your status at restore.virginia.gov. The administration removed questions added during the Youngkin administration. The governor approves the restorations, and the Secretary’s office issues the individual orders.

Govs. Bob McDonnell (R), Terry McAuliffe (D), and Ralph Northam (D) each made restoration easier. Glenn Youngkin (R) ended the expedited process in May 2022 and required applications; Spanberger brought proactive outreach back. On Nov. 3, voters approved an amendment making voting-rights restoration automatic upon release from incarceration. The result was not yet certified as of Nov. 12; if certified, the amendment takes effect Jan. 1, 2027.