Prison Release Dates Explained (UK)
Last reviewed: June 2026
Working out when someone will be released is one of the first things families want to know — and one of the most confusing, because the rules have changed several times. This guide explains the main types of release date and the reforms now coming into effect.
How release dates work
A prison sentence is not usually served entirely behind bars. For a standard determinate sentence (the most common type), a prisoner spends part of the sentence in custody and the remainder in the community on licence, under supervision and conditions. If they breach those conditions they can be recalled to prison. The point at which someone is released depends on the type and length of their sentence and the law that applied when they were sentenced.
Only the prison can calculate and confirm the official release date. Online calculators and rules of thumb can give a rough idea, but the prison’s sentence-calculation team produces the figure that counts.
Key release dates and terms
| Term | What it means |
|---|---|
| CRD — Conditional Release Date | The date a determinate-sentence prisoner is released to serve the rest on licence |
| SED — Sentence Expiry Date | The date the whole sentence (custody plus licence) ends |
| HDC — Home Detention Curfew | Possible earlier release on an electronic tag, subject to eligibility and assessment |
| Parole eligibility date | For indeterminate/extended sentences, when the Parole Board can consider release |
| Licence period | Time after release served in the community under conditions and supervision |
The Sentencing Act 2026 and earned progression
The Sentencing Act 2026 received Royal Assent in January 2026 and is reshaping how sentences are served. Its headline reform is an earned progression model for standard determinate sentences, built around three roughly equal phases: a period in custody, a period under intensive supervision in the community, and a period on standard licence. Under this model, automatic release for eligible standard determinate sentences moves towards the one-third point, with progression made conditional on good behaviour in custody.
Timing matters here. The reforms to suspended sentences — allowing courts to suspend custodial terms of up to three years, and a presumption to suspend sentences of 12 months or less unless there are exceptional circumstances — came into force on 22 March 2026. The changes to release points under the earned progression model are being introduced separately and were expected to take effect later in 2026. Because commencement is being phased, you must check the current position rather than assume a date applies. Our overview of the Sentencing Act 2026 is kept up to date, and the prison will apply whichever rules are correct for the individual.
Early release: HDC and parole
Some prisoners can be released earlier than their conditional release date on Home Detention Curfew (HDC), wearing an electronic tag and observing a curfew, if they pass a risk assessment and meet the eligibility rules. Prisoners serving indeterminate, life or extended sentences are not released automatically — they are considered by the Parole Board, which decides whether they can be safely released.
- “Released early means let off.” No — the rest of the sentence is served on licence in the community, with conditions and the risk of recall.
- “Everyone now gets out at a third.” The earned progression release point is being phased in and depends on the sentence and commencement; do not assume it applies.
- “A calculator gives the real date.” Only the prison can confirm the official release date.
- “HDC is guaranteed.” HDC is discretionary and depends on eligibility and a risk assessment.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find out someone’s release date?
Ask the prisoner, who is told their dates by the prison, or contact the prison’s offender management or sentence-calculation team. As a family member you may need the prisoner’s consent for the prison to share details with you.
Can a release date change?
Yes. Added days for disciplinary offences can push a date back, while HDC can bring release forward. Recalculations also happen if a sentence is appealed or amended.
What happens on release day?
The prisoner is released with their licence conditions, any resettlement support arranged, and details of who to report to (usually probation). See our guide to probation after prison.
Does good behaviour shorten the sentence?
Under the earned progression model, good behaviour and conduct in custody become central to progressing through the sentence. Poor behaviour can delay progression and add days.
Official sources
For the official position, see GOV.UK: leaving prison and the Sentencing Act 2026. The Prison Reform Trust publishes a clear advice guide on the Act and release rules.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Release law is changing during 2026; always confirm the official date with the prison and check GOV.UK for the latest position.
