DAF Form 236: Expungement Request for Former Air Force Members – If you are a former Air Force or Space Force service member seeking to expunge or correct criminal history records tied to an Air Force investigation, DAF Form 236 is the specific document you need. This form allows veterans to request removal or correction of entries in systems such as the Interstate Identification Index (III), Defense Central Index of Investigations (DCII), National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), and potentially the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS).
Proper use of DAF Form 236 can help clean up your record, improving employment opportunities, firearm rights, and security clearances. This guide explains everything U.S. veterans need to know in 2026, based on official Air Force sources.
What Is DAF Form 236?
DAF Form 236, titled Expungement Request for Records of Former Service Member, is an official Department of the Air Force form managed by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) Criminal Justice Information Center (AFCJIC, also referred to as DAF-CJIC).
It is designed exclusively for former service members (veterans who have separated or retired). Current active-duty, guard, or reserve members use the related DAF Form 235 instead, while civilians use DAF Form 237.
The form helps request expungement or correction of Air Force-contributed records in federal criminal justice databases when the underlying investigation did not result in a conviction or when there are grounds for removal under DoD policy (such as DoDI 5505.7 and related instructions).
Important distinction: DAF Form 236 addresses investigative/criminal history records held in law enforcement systems (e.g., OSI records, fingerprints, DNA indexing). It is not the same as:
- Correcting your official military personnel records (use DD Form 149 for the Board for Correction of Military Records).
- Upgrading a discharge (use DD Form 293 for the Discharge Review Board if within 15 years).
Who Should Use DAF Form 236?
- Former Air Force or Space Force service members.
- Individuals with an Air Force investigation or apprehension record in III, DCII, NICS, or CODIS.
- Veterans whose records may affect background checks, employment, or rights but who were not convicted of qualifying offenses.
You typically qualify for expungement consideration in cases of non-conviction, certain administrative actions, or when records no longer meet retention criteria under DoD and Air Force policy.
How to Download the Official DAF Form 236?
Download the current version directly from the official source:
→ Official Download Link: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/saf_ig/form/daf236/daf236.pdf
Pro Tip: Always download the PDF to your computer first and open it in the full Adobe Acrobat Reader application. Some users report issues when opening directly in a browser.
You will also need:
- DAF Form 238 – Verification of Identity (required for all requests).
- Any supporting documents (court orders, disposition letters, evidence supporting your request).
All forms require a wet (ink) signature or a CAC-enabled digital signature. Standard electronic signatures are generally not accepted.
Step-by-Step: How to Submit a DAF Form 236 Expungement Request?
- Download and complete DAF Form 236 — Initial the applicable sections for the records you want expunged (III, DCII, NICS, etc.). Provide clear details about the investigation or incident.
- Complete DAF Form 238 — Verification of Identity. Include a copy of a valid government-issued photo ID if required.
- Gather supporting evidence — Examples: final court disposition, non-conviction documentation, or any letters showing the case was dismissed or not prosecuted.
- Submit your package via one of two methods:
- Preferred (faster): Email to [email protected]
- Mail: AFOSI Attn: AFCJIC Expungements, 27130 Telegraph Road, Quantico, VA 22134
Include both the completed DAF Form 236 and DAF Form 238, plus supporting documents. Incomplete packages will delay processing.
Processing Time and What to Expect
The Air Force does not publish a fixed timeline, but timely, complete submissions with proper signatures process more quickly. Expect several weeks to several months depending on complexity and volume. You may receive acknowledgment and later a decision letter.
If approved, the Air Force will coordinate removal or correction with the relevant federal databases (FBI CJIS, etc.).
Common Reasons for Expungement Requests
- Investigation closed without charges or conviction.
- Acquittal or dismissal in court.
- Records entered in error or no longer required by policy.
- DNA profile in CODIS (may have additional considerations).
Note: For DNA/CODIS removal, policies reference DoDI 5505.14 and related guidance. Former members use the standard DAF Form 236 process without the commander/SJA coordination required for active members.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use DAF Form 236 for general military record corrections?
No. Use DD Form 149 for personnel record corrections through the Air Force Board for Correction of Military Records (AFBCMR).
What if I am still on active duty?
Use DAF Form 235 instead, which requires coordination with your commander and Staff Judge Advocate (SJA) for certain requests like DNA removal.
Is there a fee?
There is no filing fee mentioned in official AFOSI guidance for DAF Form 236 requests.
Where can I get help?
- Official page: https://www.osi.af.mil/About/Expungement-Request/
- Consider consulting a veterans service organization, military law attorney, or legal assistance office familiar with federal expungement processes. Some specialized firms assist with military DNA and criminal index expungements.
Final Tips for Success
- Be thorough and accurate when filling out the form.
- Use the exact mailing/email address provided on the official AFOSI expungement page.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
- Follow up politely if you do not receive acknowledgment within a reasonable time.
Cleaning up investigative records can significantly impact your post-service life. If you believe you qualify, download DAF Form 236 today and submit a well-documented request.
Official Resources:
- AFOSI Expungement Request Page
- DAF Form 236 PDF (direct link above)
- DAF-CJIC contact via email listed on the official site
This information is based on current official Air Force guidance as of 2026. Policies can change; always verify details on the AFOSI website or with the DAF-CJIC before submitting.