There's no waiting time to file for executive clemency. You can apply for a commutation of sentence anytime during your sentence. If your clemency petition includes a pardon request, you will need to have completed your sentence before applying. Most pardons granted are for convictions more than 10 years old. You should wait until at least 5 years have passed from the conviction at hand before you file a petition. Usually, the more time that has passed since your last arrest, conviction, or sentence completion, the better.

There is a waiting period if you have already been denied. After the denial, you must wait at least one year to file a second petition. The Chairman of the Prisoner Review Board can make an exception if you have a good reason

Note: The information above only applies to clemency for state crimes in Illinois. For information on clemency for federal crimes, visit the US Pardon Attorney's website. For information on other states' crimes, visit your state government's website.