How to Obtain a Car Accident Report in Hillsborough County, FL

If you were involved in a motor vehicle accident in Hillsborough County, Florida, obtaining a copy of the official crash report is a vital step in protecting your rights. Whether you’re dealing with an insurance claim, legal case, or personal documentation, a crash report provides key details. In Florida, reports are handled by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and local law enforcement agencies like the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and Tampa Police Department.

Who Can Access a Florida Crash Report?

Florida crash reports are considered confidential for the first 60 days after the accident. During this time, reports can only be accessed by:

• People involved in the crash
• Vehicle owners
• Attorneys representing a party in the crash
• Licensed insurance agents or carriers
• Law enforcement agencies
• Victim services programs
• State prosecutors

After 60 days, crash reports become public records and are available to anyone upon request.

How to Obtain a Crash Report in Hillsborough County

Crash reports in Hillsborough County can be obtained in three primary ways:

1. Online Through the FLHSMV Crash Report Portal

The most convenient option is to use the online system provided by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

1. Visit the FLHSMV Crash Report Portal .
2. Provide the necessary information:
   • Report number (if available)
   • Last name of a party involved
   • Date of the accident
   • County: Hillsborough
3. Pay the applicable fees:
   • $10.00 per crash report
   • $2.00 convenience fee per transaction

Once purchased, you’ll receive a download link via email, which expires after 48 hours.

2. In Person at a Local Law Enforcement Office

You can also obtain a crash report in person from the agency that responded to the accident.

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

Tampa Police Department

When visiting, bring:

• Photo identification
• Crash details (date, location, names involved)
• Payment (usually $10.00 per report)

Call ahead to confirm hours and accepted payment methods.

3. Request by Mail

You may also send a written request by mail to the FLHSMV for a copy of the report.

Include the following in your mail request:

• A written letter with crash details (names, date, location)
• Report number (if available)
• Self-addressed stamped envelope
• Check or money order for $10.00 payable to FLHSMV

Please allow 4–6 weeks for processing and delivery.

What Information Is Included in a Crash Report?

A Florida Uniform Traffic Crash Report will typically include:

• Date, time, and location of the crash
• Vehicle and driver information
• Insurance details
• Road and weather conditions
• Officer’s diagram and narrative
• Witness names and statements (if applicable)
• Any citations issued

Additional Hillsborough County Resources

• Florida Highway Patrol – Hillsborough County Locations
• Hillsborough County Clerk of Court

Note: It is illegal under Florida law to access a crash report during the 60-day confidentiality period unless you are legally authorized. Misuse of these reports may result in penalties.