How to Get a Police Report in Los Angeles

Getting a police report in Los Angeles can feel like navigating a maze. With multiple agencies—from the LAPD to the County Sheriff and independent city departments—knowing where to look is half the battle. Whether you need a report for an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit, this guide covers everything you need to know about the process in 2026.

If you were involved in a collision, obtaining the report is a critical step in securing the compensation you deserve. While this guide helps you navigate the paperwork, a complex crash often requires professional legal oversight to ensure the facts are interpreted correctly.

If you’ve been injured, we recommend consulting with an experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer who can use this documentation to build a powerful case against the insurance companies and protect your financial recovery.

The LAPD Report (City of Los Angeles)

The LAPD handles traffic collision records for all incidents occurring on city surface streets within Los Angeles. For the most accurate results in 2026, ensure you have your DR (Division of Records) Number or Incident Number ready before starting your request.

How to Request an LAPD Report Online

This is the most efficient method for standard traffic accidents. However, the LAPD officially requires a minimum 45-day waiting period from the date of the accident to allow for internal review and approval before the report is released digitally. 

• Official Portal: LexisNexis BuyCrash
• Convenience Fee: Approximately $10.00 – $12.00 (varies by portal processing fees).
• What You’ll Need to Search:
  • The DR Number (or the date and location of the crash).
  • Your Last Name exactly as it appears on the report.
  • A valid credit or debit card for the portal fee.
• Best For: Standard collisions with no fatalities, arrests, or juvenile involvement.
• Estimated Wait: 5–10 business days after the initial 45-day approval window.

How to Request an LAPD Report by Mail

If your accident involves an arrest, a fatality, or a juvenile, you cannot use the online portal. You must submit a written request via the U.S. Mail.

• Required Form: LAPD Traffic Collision Report Request (PDF)
• Mailing Address: Los Angeles Police Department, R&I Division, Document Processing Unit, P.O. Box 30158, Los Angeles, CA 90030
• Payment Method: $20.00 check or money order only payable to “LAPD”. (No cash.)  
• Status Updates: Call the recorded status line at (213) 486-8130.

The CHP Report (Freeway Accidents)

If your collision occurred on an LA freeway (such as the 405, 5, 10, or 101) or a state highway, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is the reporting agency. While freeway reports follow different protocols than city streets, the CHP now offers a specialized digital portal for faster access in 2026.

How to Request a CHP Report Online

The most efficient way to secure your records is through the official CHP Crash Portal. Unlike the LAPD’s 45-day review, CHP reports are often available for digital download significantly sooner. 

• Official Portal: CHP Online Crash Report System
• Convenience Fee: $22.00 (payable by credit or debit card).
• What You’ll Need to Search:
  • An account on the CHP portal (registration is required).
  • The NCIC Number or Officer ID (found on the crash card provided at the scene).
  • The exact date and location of the collision.
• Best For: Standard traffic collisions where no arrests or major criminal investigations are pending.
• Estimated Wait: Typically available within 8 business days from the date of the crash.

How to Request a CHP Report by Mail

For complex cases involving fatalities or arrests, or if you prefer a hard copy, you must submit a formal application via mail. Note: The CHP does not accept credit or debit cards for mail-in requests at this time.

• Required Form: Crash Request Form CHP 190 (Application for Release of Information)
• Mailing Address: Send your request to the specific CHP Area Office that investigated the crash (e.g., Central Los Angeles, South LA, or West LA).
• Convenience Fee: Fees start at $10.00 for standard reports and increase up to $40.00+ based on the total page count.
• Payment Method: Personal check or money order made out to the California Highway Patrol. (No cash.)

The LASD Report (LA County Sheriff)

The LASD is the custodian of records for unincorporated areas of LA County and “contract cities” such as West Hollywood, Santa Clarita, and Malibu. Unlike other agencies, the LASD does not currently offer a direct online download for official traffic collision reports.

How to Request an LASD Report by Mail

This is the standard method for obtaining a formal collision record. The LASD requires a high level of identity verification for mailed requests to protect your privacy.

• Mailing Address: Records and Identification Bureau, Attn: Records Inquiry Non-Law Enforcement Section, 12440 E. Imperial Hwy, Ste 400 West, Norwalk, CA 90650
• Phone: (562) 345-4448
• What to Include in Your Letter:

• • Personal Info: Full name (including any aliases) and Date of Birth.
  • Incident Info: Date and location of the occurrence.
  • Return Info: The address where the report should be mailed and your signature.  
  • Identity Proof: A photocopy of your valid government-issued ID or passport.
• Payment Method: $25.00 check or money order (if the file number is known). If a search is required to find your record, the fee is $45.00.

How to Request an LASD Report In Person

To pick up a report in person, you must first call to verify the report is ready and schedule an appointment.

• Appointment Line: Call (562) 345-4441 to review your legal authority and set a pick-up time.  
• Location: 12440 East Imperial Highway, Suite 120, Norwalk, CA 90650.  
• Preparation: When calling, have your ID number, expiration date, and the incident date/location ready.

Reports from Independent Local Police Departments

While the LAPD and CHP handle major regional traffic, dozens of municipalities maintain their own independent police departments. If your incident occurred within city limits like Santa Monica, Long Beach, or Pasadena, you must request the report from that specific city’s Records Unit.

How to Request an Independent City Report

Most independent agencies in 2026 follow a “Digital-First” model, using third-party portals or city-specific request centers.

• Online Portals: Many cities use LexisNexis BuyCrash or NextRequest for digital delivery.
• Manual Requests: Be aware that some departments do not maintain an online portal. In these cases, you will be required to call the Records Bureau to verify the report’s status or visit the police station in person to submit your application.
• Fees: Unlike the LAPD’s flat fee, independent cities set their own rates. For example, Long Beach Police Department charges a flat $29.00, while Beverly Hills Police Department charges by the page ($2.50 for the first page).  
• Wait Times: California law requires agencies to respond to records requests within 10 days, though the actual report may take longer if the investigation is ongoing.