How to Get a Car Accident Report in Washington, D.C.

Get a car accident report in Washington, D.C., in person or by mail.

In Washington, D.C., when an officer responds to the scene of an automobile accident, he will complete an accident report. The report will contain a six-digit identifier number, which will be given to you or others involved in the accident, to use later to obtain the report. You can get a copy of an accident report in person by visiting the Henry J. Daly building or by submitting a request by mail.

Instructions

In Person

1. Visit the Henry J. Daly building (the Metropolitan Police Department headquarters) at 300 Indiana Ave NW, Room 2075, Washington, D.C. 20001.

2. Request an accident report.

3. Provide your name; the date, time and location of the accident, and the six-digit accident report number.

4. Pay the $3 fee (as of December 2010). The clerk will process your request and provide you with the report.

By Mail

1. Write a letter to the Metropolitan Police Department requesting a copy of an accident report by mail. Include your name; the date, time and location of the accident, as well as the six-digit accident report identifier number.

2. Visit a notary public and have the letter notarized. Purchase a $3 money order and make it out to the "D.C. Treasurer."

3. Mail a self-addressed stamped envelope along with your letter to:

   Metropolitan Police Department

   Public Documents Unit

   ATTN: Accident/Incident Reports

   300 Indiana Avenue NW, Room 3075

   Washington, D.C. 20001

4. Wait for the report to arrive by mail. Allow six weeks for processing.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact the Metropolitan Police Department at [phone] if you need any assistance.

References

• Metropolitan Police Department: Accident, Incident, and Offense Reports
• Metropolitan Police Department: Accident/Incident Report Requests by Mail
• Metropolitan Police Department: FAQs
• Google: MPDC Headquarters Map