*For Accident/Collision Reports please go to the Department Records Section

Arizona Law prohibits examining or receiving copies of any report for commercial solicitation.

The Public Records Unit is responsible for fulfilling requests made by the public under the Arizona Public Records Law.  The requests are fulfilled in the most timely manner possible by the Department's Documents Custodian.  The Unit responds to subpoena duces tecums as well as fulfilling requests from the General Public, Attorneys, Insurance Companies and Private Investigators.  All requests to the Public Records Unit must be made in writing and can be faxed or mailed to the Unit.  

Arizona Department of Public Safety
Public Records Unit/ Mail Drop 1200
P.O. Box 6638
Phoenix, AZ 85005-6638

Phone: (602) 223-2345 or 223-2103
Fax: (602) 223-2945

Q & A

Do you handle accident reports?
The "Department Records Unit" handles Accident Reports and most photo requests.  Please visit their website for instructions. However, Public Records will respond to a subpoena duces tecum for an accident report and photographs. 

What reports do the Public Records Unit handle?
The Public Records Unit handles requests for any and all documents in the possession of the Department, except for Accident reports and photographs. 

Does the Public Records Unit charge a fee?
Yes.  The Public Records Unit charges a fee for all documents and other mediums requested.  A confirmation card is mailed to each requestor once their request is received in the Unit and it will list the current prices charged. 

When do I pay the fee and how will I know how much to pay?
Once the documents or items you requested have been gathered,  you will receive an invoice for the amount due.  Your requested materials will be mailed once your payment has been received.  Currently the Unit accepts cashier checks, money orders, and business checks for payment. 

What information do I need to provide in order to request a report?
You need to provide any and all information you have available in order to aide us in locating the report or records you are requesting.  We have provided a form for you to print out and use for making a Public Records Unit request.  Please fill in all the information you have available. Please be specific about the type of document you are requesting.

How long will it take for me to receive a copy of the report requested?
The Department makes every effort to satisfy requests in a timely manner, but the amount of items requested and the amount of requests the unit is currently handling will always affect the time it will take to complete requests.  The Unit requests that you allow at least 25 days for your request to be processed.  Requests for older reports may take longer as they are stored offsite.  

Can I make my request in person?
The Public Records unit has no public entrance. However,  requests may be dropped off at the public counter at the Department Records unit.

Can I come in and pick up the report today?
Information released by the Department (other than accident reports) must be viewed for content before being released. Documents may be reviewed by appointment only with the documents custodian.