How to get a police report

The official police crash report is the backbone of most insurance claims and your own records. Here's what a report is, how to get the report number, how long it usually takes, and where to request it.

Understand what a crash report is

A police crash report (sometimes called an accident or incident report) is the official document an investigating officer creates about a collision. It typically records the date, time, and location, the vehicles and people involved, insurance details, a diagram, and the officer's narrative. It's a core piece of documentation for insurance claims and your own records.

Get the report or incident number at the scene

When officers respond, ask for the report or incident number and note which agency is handling it — city police, a county sheriff, or the state patrol. That number and agency are the two things that make requesting the finished report much easier later.

💡 If you didn't get the number at the scene, the investigating agency can usually look it up with your name, date, and location.

Know the typical wait

Reports usually aren't available immediately. It commonly takes anywhere from a few days to about two weeks for a report to be reviewed, finalized, and released. More complex crashes can take longer. If it's been a while, it's fine to follow up with the investigating agency.

Request it from the right place

Reports are usually available either directly from the investigating agency or through a state or third-party portal. Common examples include Texas TxDOT CRIS, the Florida FLHSMV crash portal, Georgia records through LexisNexis BuyCrash, and North Carolina reports through the investigating agency, LexisNexis, or the NC DMV. Because the exact link and process depend on your location, use your city hub for the precise local portal.

💡 Your city's police report guide links the correct local request page for your area.

Bring your ID and any fee

Requests typically ask for identification and some case details — your name, the date and location of the crash, and the report number if you have it. Many agencies and portals charge a small fee for a copy. Have a form of payment ready if you're requesting online.

Check the report for errors

When you receive the report, read it carefully. Confirm names, dates, vehicle and insurance details, and the diagram and narrative. Small errors happen — a transposed plate number or a misspelled name. If something factual is wrong, there's generally a process to request a correction.

💡 If you spot a factual error, contact the investigating agency about their correction process.

Not professional advice: This information is for general educational purposes only and is not legal, medical, insurance, or professional advice.

Because the exact portal and fee depend on where the crash happened, your city hub links the correct local request page. Examples: Dallas, Atlanta, Miami, Orlando, and Charlotte. Or find your city.

Not sure what to do first? Start with what to do after a car accident.

Common questions

How long does it take to get a police report?

It varies, but a common range is a few days to about two weeks after the crash. The report has to be written, reviewed, and released before it's available. Complex crashes can take longer. If it's overdue, follow up with the investigating agency.

How much does a crash report cost?

Many agencies and state portals charge a small fee for a copy, though amounts vary by location and provider. Some agencies provide a basic copy at no cost to involved parties. Check your city hub or the investigating agency for the current fee.

Can I fix an error on the report?

Usually yes for clear factual errors, such as a misspelled name or an incorrect plate number. Contact the investigating agency and ask about their correction or amendment process. Note that an officer's professional conclusions may be handled differently from simple factual mistakes.

What if no police report was filed?

Not every minor crash results in a report. If none was filed, you can still document the crash thoroughly yourself with photos, notes, and witness information, and report it to your insurer. Depending on where you are, you may also be able to file a self-report with the appropriate agency.

Get the local report link

Choose your city for the exact crash report portal, required ID, fees, and typical timing where you are.

Find Your City Insurance Claim Guide