Answered by Shaykh Yusuf Weltch
Question: When does one need to perform ghusl from a wet dream?
Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate
Hope this finds you in the best of faith
Noticing Wetness When Awaking
If you wake up and notice wetness you must perform ghusl regardless of whether you saw any dreams or not. If you have a dream but do not see any wetness when awaking ghusl is not necessary. The basis in this matter is the wetness, not the dream.
When Does A State of Impurity Occur?
The ghusl will only be necessary when semen comes out to the visible surface of the private part. Thus, you are not obliged to push out the semen. If it has not come out to the surface you are still pure and only when it comes out fully will you need to perform ghusl.
Applying Caution
Although it is not obligatory to check oneself for impurity when awaking a quick glance would be a cautious stance for one who often has nocturnal emissions. If nothing is visible when you are not in a state of impurity.
[Reference: Maraqi al-Falah; Hashiyah Ibn Abidin]
May Allah bless you
Allahu A’alam
[Shaykh] Yusuf WeltchDre
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani