How to Get a Copy of Your Police Accident Report in Virginia

If you were in a car accident in Virginia, the Virginia DMV, not the local police department in most cases, is where you'll request your official crash report.

Requesting From Virginia DMV

• Who can request it: the driver, an injured person, the vehicle/property owner, a personal representative (next of kin, executor), or an attorney representing someone involved in the crash.
• How to request: complete an Information Request Form (CRD 93).
• Cost: $8 per copy.
• Where to send it:
• By mail: Customer Records Work Center, Room 514, Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, PO Box 27412, Richmond, VA 23269
• By fax: (804) 367-0390
• In person: any DMV Customer Service Center, Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Timing: reports are generally available about 7 days after the accident.
• How long DMV keeps it on file: at least 36 months after the crash.

Important: if a Virginia State Trooper responded to your accident, DMV is the only place to get that report. Local police departments won't have it.

Local Police or Sheriff's Department (in some cases)

If a city or county police department (not a state trooper) responded to your accident, you may also be able to request the report directly from that department. Some jurisdictions, including Virginia Beach and Chesterfield County, offer their own online report request systems.

What You'll Need to Provide

• Your role in the accident (driver, passenger, pedestrian, cyclist, motorcyclist)
• Where the crash happened (street, city/county)
• Your driver's license number (required if you were a driver involved in the accident)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get the report?
Typically about a week from DMV, but it can vary. Check with DMV directly if it's time-sensitive.

What if DMV can't find a report matching my request?
Your payment generally isn't refunded if no matching report is found, so double-check your accident details before submitting.

Can my attorney request the report for me?
Yes. An attorney representing someone involved in the crash can request the report directly.
Already have your police report and need help figuring out what it means for your claim? Call Portner & Shure for a free consultation.

Related Resources

• Personal Injury at Portner & Shure
• Contact Portner & Shure