How to get a police accident report in Miami
The official crash report is usually the single most useful document after an accident in Miami. Here's how to request it.
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Request steps
- Identify the investigating agency. Crashes inside Miami are usually handled by the city police department; crashes on interstates or state highways may be handled by state patrol or highway police.
- Wait for the report to be finalized — officers typically file reports within several days of the crash.
- Request the report through the agency's online records portal, by mail, or in person at the records division (placeholder — confirm current options with the agency).
- Provide identifying details (see the list below) and pay the copy fee if one applies.
- Save both digital and printed copies for your insurance file.
What you'll need
- Date and approximate time of the crash
- Location (road, cross street, or block number)
- Names of at least one involved driver
- Report or incident number, if you received one at the scene
- Your role in the crash (driver, passenger, vehicle owner)
- A valid photo ID for in-person requests
At a glance
| Agency | Miami Police Department (verify — placeholder) |
|---|---|
| Typical timing | Reports are generally available about 10 days after the crash (placeholder estimate). |
| Cost | Commonly around $10 per report (placeholder). |
| Online portal | Miami police records portal (placeholder link) |
| State system | Florida Crash Portal (FLHSMV) — placeholder link |
If the report isn't available yet
If the report is not available yet, wait a few business days and try again — reports often take time to be reviewed and released. You can also call the records division with your incident number, or ask your insurer to help retrieve it. Keep documenting your own records in the meantime.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a police accident report?
Timing varies by agency. In many cities, including Miami, reports become available several business days to about two weeks after the crash, once the investigating officer files and the agency reviews it. The timing shown on this page is a placeholder estimate — confirm with the agency.
What information do I need to request a report?
Most agencies ask for the crash date, location, at least one involved driver's name, and the report or incident number if you have it. In-person requests usually require photo ID.
Can I request a report online?
Many agencies offer online request portals, and several states run statewide crash report systems. The portal links on this page are placeholders in this preview — check the Miami police department's official website for the current option.
What if I do not know the report number?
You can usually still request the report using the crash date, location, and a driver's name. If you call the records division, they can often look up the incident number for you.
Are accident reports public?
Crash reports are generally available to involved parties, their insurers, and representatives. Public access rules vary by state — some redact personal information or restrict access for a period after the crash.
What if the crash happened on a highway?
Crashes on interstates and state highways are often investigated by state patrol or highway police rather than city police. If the city records division has no record of your crash, check with the state agency.
Not professional advice: This information is for general educational purposes only and is not legal, medical, insurance, or professional advice.
Just had a crash?
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