You can get copies of public safety records from the Department of Records. This includes:
- Crash reports (formerly called traffic accident reports).
- Police incident or offense reports.
- Fire reports.
- Emergency medical services (EMS) reports.
- Police record checks.
- Letters of good conduct.
Some reports may contain confidential information and are not available to everyone. See the applications to learn about who can apply.
Requesting reports online
You can get traffic crash reports online through the public safety reports application.
You must request all other reports in person or by mail.
Requesting reports in person or by mail
Use the table below to determine which application you need and how much it will cost to apply.
You can pay by cash, money order, business check, or certified check. We do not accept personal checks, credit cards, or debit cards. Make checks payable to “City of Philadelphia.”
| Link to application | Issuing department | Processing estimate | Application fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crash report | Department of Records | 2 to 3 weeks | $25 |
| Police incident or offense report application | Police Department | 10 to 12 weeks | $25 |
| Fire report | Fire Department | 6 to 8 weeks | $20 |
| EMS report | Emergency Medical Services (EMS) | 6 to 8 weeks | $6.50 |
| Police record checks | Police Department | 10 days | $40 |
| Letters of good conduct | Police Department | 10 days | $40 |
Department of Records
Public Safety Records Unit
City Hall, Room 170
1400 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.