Sex Offender Registry Laws in the United States
Federal and state laws require people convicted of certain sexual offenses to register publicly. This guide explains SORNA tiers, Megan's Law notification, and how Romeo and Juliet relief can apply.
Federal SORNA framework
The Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), Title I of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006, establishes minimum standards. Three tiers determine the duration and frequency of registration.
Megan's Law and community notification
Megan's Law requires public notification of registered offenders' whereabouts. Each state operates a public registry, typically searchable online by name and ZIP code.
Relief for Romeo and Juliet cases
Several states allow registrants whose offense fell within a close-in-age relationship to petition for removal from the registry, often after 5–10 years and a clean record. See our Registration Duration Estimator.