If you’ve been in a car accident, getting the official police report is one of the first steps toward recovering damages.
So, how long does it take to get a police report after a car accident in Hawaii?
It typically takes 7 to 10 business days to obtain a police report after a car accident in Hawaii, depending on the law enforcement agency and case complexity.
With decades of experience handling auto accident claims across Hawaii, our team at Olson & Sons ensures clients have what they need to build a strong case—starting with the police report.
Below, we’ll break down exactly how long it takes, where to request your report, and what to do if delays occur.
What Is a Police Report and Why Is It Important?
A police report is an official document prepared by law enforcement that summarizes the details of a car accident. It typically includes:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Parties involved (drivers, passengers, witnesses)
- Vehicle damage and roadway conditions
- Statements from involved parties and witnesses
- Diagrams and photographs (if applicable)
- Initial determination of fault
Insurance companies, attorneys, and courts use police reports to evaluate claims and liability. While not always definitive, they can strongly influence settlement negotiations or litigation outcomes.
Obtaining Police Reports in Hawaii
Requests for police reports in Hawaii can be made in person at any district police station or by calling the respective station. For added convenience, many departments, including the Honolulu Police Department (HPD), offer online request options through their Records and Identification Division.
When submitting a request, you will typically need to provide necessary details such as the date and location of the accident, names of the persons involved, and, if available, the police report number. If you are requesting a report on behalf of someone else, a signed authorization letter from the requesting party is required to release the report to an authorized representative.
The cost to obtain a police report is generally $1 for the first page and $0.10 for each additional page, payable in cash or by money order depending on the department’s policy. Some departments may require a self-addressed stamped envelope if you are requesting report copies by mail.
Police accident reports serve as an official record of the incident, documenting key evidence such as statements from involved parties and witnesses, vehicle damage, and the responding officer’s observations. These reports are crucial for insurance claims, legal actions, and verifying identity and social security numbers when necessary.
For cases involving multiple requests or criminal abstracts, additional processing time may be required. It is advisable to contact the relevant police department’s Records and Identification Division for assistance and to confirm specific requirements and fees before submitting your request.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Police Report in Hawaii?
Most Hawaii police departments take 7 to 10 business days to process and release car accident reports. However, the timeline may vary based on:
- Jurisdiction (Honolulu, Big Island, Maui, or Kauai)
- Severity of the accident
- Availability of officers and staff
- If an investigation is still ongoing
Here’s a comparison chart of estimated wait times:
| Hawaii Police Department | Estimated Wait Time | Report Request Method |
|---|---|---|
| Honolulu Police Department (HPD) | 7–10 business days | In person, online, or mail |
| Hawaii County Police (Big Island) | 10–15 business days | Mail or in person |
| Maui Police Department | 7–10 business days | Online or in person |
| Kauai Police Department | 7–12 business days | Online or mail |
Takeaway: While most reports are available within two weeks, always follow up with the correct department if your case is time-sensitive.
How Do I Request a Police Report in Hawaii?
To obtain your crash report, follow these 5 steps:
- Determine the responding police department.
Look at the officer’s badge, police vehicle, or ask at the scene. - Wait the minimum processing period.
Most departments recommend waiting at least 7–10 business days. - Gather necessary information.
You will need: date of accident, location, names of involved parties, and police report number (if available). - Submit your request.
Depending on the department, you can request online, in person, or by mail. Some may require a signed form or ID. - Pay any applicable fee.
Fees range from $1 to $10 depending on the department and number of pages.
Tip: For Honolulu PD, reports can be requested online via the Honolulu Police Department website.
What If the Report Is Delayed?
Delays can occur due to:
- Ongoing investigations (especially in fatal or hit-and-run accidents)
- Lack of sufficient information to complete the report
- Staff shortages or backlogged cases
What to do if your report is delayed:
- Call the records division of the relevant police department
- Ask for a status update and estimated availability
- Have your case number or report number ready
- Consult a car accident attorney if you’re facing insurance deadlines
Are Police Reports Required to File an Insurance Claim?
Not always—but they are strongly recommended.
In Hawaii, you can file a claim with your personal injury protection (PIP) carrier without a police report, but:
- Having the report speeds up processing
- It adds credibility to your version of events
- It can protect you from being wrongly blamed
If you plan to pursue a personal injury lawsuit, your attorney will almost certainly need the report.
What If the Police Didn’t Come to the Scene?
If no officer responded, you may be required to file your own written report. In Hawaii, drivers must report the accident within 24 hours if:
- There are injuries or deaths, or
- Property damage exceeds $3,000
How to File a Self-Report in Hawaii
- Download the Motor Vehicle Collision Report Form
Find it on the Hawaii DOT website or the applicable county website. - Fill out all required fields truthfully and thoroughly.
- Submit the form to your county’s accident records department.
You can access the STATE OF HAWAII MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT REPORT here.
Tips for Getting Your Report Faster
- Ask the officer at the scene for the report number or their name and badge number. This information helps you track the report and makes follow-up easier.
- Double-check your contact info was correctly recorded by the responding officer. Incorrect information can delay notification when the report is ready.
- Request updates after 7 days if you haven’t received your report. Contact the police department’s Records and Identification Division with your case details.
- Have your attorney request it directly—law firms often receive priority service and can navigate the process more efficiently.
- Submit your request online if available, as online requests tend to be processed faster than mail or in-person submissions.
- Include all necessary details such as date, location, names of involved parties, and vehicle owner information to avoid delays caused by incomplete requests.
- Provide a self-addressed stamped envelope if mailing your request, ensuring the department can send your report promptly without additional delays.
- Follow up politely but persistently if your report is delayed, especially if you need it for insurance or legal deadlines.
Call Olson & Sons for Help With Your Accident Case
If you’re injured in a Hawaii car accident, don’t wait to get legal help.
Olson & Sons has decades of experience helping accident victims secure the compensation they deserve.
We’ll handle the paperwork, deal with insurance companies, and make sure your rights are protected every step of the way.
Call 808-331-3113 for a free consultation with a Hawaii car accident lawyer today.
No fees unless we win your case.
Further Reading:
- Compensation for Auto Accident Injury in Hawaii
- Who’s at Fault in a Three-Car Accident in Hawaii?
- How Much Does a Car Accident Injury Lawyer Cost in Hawaii?
- What to Do After a Car Accident in Hawaii
Resources:
- Hawaii Department of Transportation
- Honolulu Police Department Reports
- Hawaii County Police Records Division
- Hawaii Police Records Request
FAQs About Obtaining a Police Report After a Car Accident
How long does it take to get a police report in Hawaii?
Most car accident reports in Hawaii are available within 7–10 business days, but it can take longer if the case involves injuries, investigations, or heavy caseloads.
Can I get a police report online in Hawaii?
Yes, some departments like Honolulu and Maui allow online requests. Others, like Big Island, may require mail or in-person pickup.
Do I need the police report number to request it?
It helps but is not required. You can usually request it with the date, location, and names of the drivers involved.
How much does it cost to get a police report in Hawaii?
Fees range from $1–$10, depending on the number of pages and the department’s fee schedule.
Can my lawyer get the police report for me?
Yes. Most personal injury lawyers in Hawaii will obtain the report on your behalf as part of handling your case.
What if I lost my copy of the police report?
You can request a duplicate from the issuing police department using the original details of the crash.
