Bureau of Records Tallahassee Florida phone number connects residents, researchers, and legal professionals to verified government archives, public document services, and official record-keeping divisions across Leon County and the Florida Department of State. The primary contact for historical and administrative records is the Archives & Records Management Bureau at 850‑245‑6600, located at 500 South Bronough Street in the Leon County Government Center. This office manages public records, archival collections dating back to the 19th century, and digital access through the Florida State Archives portal. Additional specialized bureaus handle law enforcement reports, election filings, medical records, licensing data, and motor vehicle documents—each with dedicated phone lines and secure processing procedures. All services operate during standard weekday hours, with some offering after-hours voicemail or online request options for convenience.
Main Archives & Records Management Bureau – Contact and Services
The Archives & Records Management Bureau serves as the central hub for public and historical records in Tallahassee. It holds government documents, property deeds, court records, and state agency archives in both physical and digital formats. Researchers can access original materials in on-site viewing rooms equipped with climate-controlled storage to preserve fragile documents. The digital catalog allows remote searches for birth certificates, marriage licenses, land surveys, and legislative records. Staff assist with genealogy requests, academic research, and legal verification needs. Phone inquiries are handled Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 850‑245‑6600. Fax submissions go to 850‑245‑6601. Walk-in visitors should bring photo identification and specify the type of record needed to speed up service.
State Records Center – Secure Storage and Retrieval
The State Records Center, part of the Florida Department of State’s Division of Library and Information Services, stores inactive but legally required records from state agencies. These include budget reports, personnel files, contract documents, and audit trails dating back to 1845. The facility uses temperature-regulated vaults and fire suppression systems to protect sensitive materials. Requests for records must include the agency name, record type, and date range. The center provides certified copies for legal use and scans documents for electronic delivery. Contact the center at 850‑245‑6750 during business hours or fax requests to 850‑245‑6795. Email inquiries should be sent to recordscenter@dos.myflorida.com. The physical location is 4319 Shelfer Road, Tallahassee, FL 32305, with mail directed to Mail Station 9A, Tallahassee, FL 32399‑0250.
Tallahassee Police Department Records Division
The TPD Records Division processes traffic collision reports, incident logs, arrest records, and accident scene photos. These documents are essential for insurance claims, legal proceedings, and personal documentation. The unit operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 234 East 7th Avenue, Tallahassee, FL 32303. Callers can reach the division at 850‑891‑4221. After-hours requests are accepted via voicemail. In-person visitors must present a government-issued ID and may use self-service kiosks to print crash reports. Certified copies cost $10 each, with electronic versions available for an additional $5. Mail requests should include the subject’s full name, date of birth, and detailed description of the desired record, sent to Attention: Records, Tallahassee Police Department, 234 East 7th Avenue, Tallahassee, FL 32303.
Division of Elections – Voter and Candidate Records
The Division of Elections maintains voter registration rolls, candidate filings, campaign finance reports, and election result certifications. The Bureau of Election Records handles requests for ballot data, polling place information, and official election outcomes. Contact this bureau at 850‑245‑6240 or email electionrecords@dos.myflorida.com. Fax submissions go to 850‑245‑6259 for electronic files or 850‑245‑6260 for paper documents. The Bureau of Voter Registration Services assists with new applications and updates to existing registrations at 850‑245‑6200. All offices are located at 321 E Jefferson St, Tallahassee, FL 32399‑0250, and operate weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. When mailing documents, include the bureau name on the first line of the address to ensure proper routing.
Medical Records at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare
Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare provides patient medical records through its dedicated department on the ground floor of the main hospital near the Magnolia Lobby. The address is 1300 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. Operating hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., excluding federal holidays. Patients or authorized representatives can call 850‑431‑5454 or fax requests to 850‑431‑4447. Requests must include the patient’s full name, date of birth, and specific record type such as discharge summaries or imaging reports. Certified copies cost $15, while secure PDFs can be emailed after identity verification. Walk-in assistance is available at the main information desk for immediate support.
Commercial Driver and Motor Vehicle Records
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) manages commercial driver licenses, crash reports, and vehicle registration records. For audit-related inquiries involving IFTA accounts or IRP credentials, call 850‑617‑3711. Retest assistance for commercial drivers is available at 850‑617‑2707. To purchase crash reports or motor vehicle records, dial 850‑617‑3416 and select option 1. Reports are accessible through the online portal FloridaCrashPortal.gov for a $20 fee. The DHSMV headquarters is in the Neil Kirkman Building at 2900 Apalachee Parkway, MS 58, Tallahassee, FL 32399. Service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with extended support on Tuesdays for urgent requests.
Licensing and Professional Records Division
The Division of Licensing under the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services oversees professional licenses for real estate agents, agricultural operators, and commercial drivers. Public records requests include examination results, disciplinary actions, and license status updates. General inquiries can be made at (850) 245‑5691 or (850) 245‑5655. Fax documents to (850) 245‑5656. The division uses an online “Request Public Records” portal for formal submissions. Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Quarterly public information sessions are held at the Tallahassee conference center to explain licensing requirements and record access procedures. Mailing address is P.O. Box 5647, Tallahassee, FL 32314‑5647.
General State Government Inquiries
For broad state government questions not specific to a single bureau, contact the main office at (850) 413‑9911. This line directs callers to the appropriate department based on the nature of the request. The Agent Investigations Bureau, reachable at (850) 413‑5697, handles background checks for state employees and maintains a secure database of personnel records. Previously, the Enrollment & Contributions Bureau processed pension contributions at (850) 414‑6654, but this unit closed to the public after consolidation in 2022. The Business Documents & Records Storage & Management division was formerly located at 220 Cypress St, Tallahassee, FL 32301. Most offices offer extended Thursday hours to assist out-of-state callers.
Yellow Pages Listings for Recording Studios
While not government entities, several private recording studios in Tallahassee use “Bureau of Records” in their business names, which may appear in local directories. In Style Boutique Recording Service offers audio mixing and video production at 249 E 6th Ave, reachable at (850) 765‑5325. Tallahassee Recording Sound & Video provides live-event recording and podcast production at 246 E 6th Ave, contact (850) 212‑8939. E S P Recording Studio specializes in indie-band tracking at 2203 S Adams St, phone (850) 222‑1495. These businesses are unrelated to public record services but may cause confusion in search results. Always verify the correct agency before submitting sensitive information.
How to Request Public Records in Tallahassee
To obtain public records in Tallahassee, identify the correct bureau based on the document type. For historical or administrative records, contact the Archives & Records Management Bureau. For police reports, use the TPD Records Division. Medical records require contact with the healthcare provider. Always include full names, dates of birth, and specific descriptions in written requests. Most agencies accept phone, fax, mail, or online submissions. Processing times range from immediate (for walk-ins) to 10–15 business days for mailed requests. Fees vary: $10 for certified police reports, $15 for medical records, and $20 for crash reports. Some digital copies incur extra charges. Bring valid ID for in-person visits.
Operating Hours and Access Guidelines
Most record-keeping bureaus in Tallahassee operate Monday through Friday during standard business hours. The Archives & Records Management Bureau is open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The TPD Records Division runs 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The State Records Center offers public research hours from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Medical records are available 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. DHSMV services extend to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays. After-hours voicemail is available for police and some state offices. Always call ahead to confirm availability, especially during holidays or system updates. Some services require appointments for large research projects.
Fees and Payment Methods
Fees for record copies depend on the document type and format. Certified police reports cost $10, with electronic copies adding $5. Medical records are $15 for certified copies. Crash reports from DHSMV are $20 via the online portal. Most agencies accept cash, check, or money order for in-person requests. Online payments use credit cards through secure portals like FloridaCrashPortal.gov. Mail requests must include a prepaid return envelope. Fee waivers are rare and typically granted only for legal aid organizations or government agencies. Always ask for a receipt when paying in person.
Digital Access and Online Portals
Many Tallahassee record services now offer digital access. The Florida State Archives portal provides searchable catalogs for historical documents. TPD allows online crash report requests. DHSMV uses FloridaCrashPortal.gov for motor vehicle records. The Division of Elections publishes campaign finance data online. Medical records can be emailed securely after identity confirmation. Always use official state websites ending in .gov or .myflorida.com to avoid scams. Avoid third-party sites that charge high fees for basic information. Bookmark official portals for quick access.
Privacy and Identity Verification
All record requests require identity verification to protect personal information. In-person visits need a government-issued photo ID. Mail requests must include full legal names, dates of birth, and notarized authorization if applicable. Email and fax submissions require prior approval and secure transmission methods. Minors’ records need parental consent. Medical records follow HIPAA guidelines and require signed release forms. Unauthorized access to records is a criminal offense in Florida. Agencies may deny requests if identity cannot be confirmed. Keep copies of all correspondence for your records.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people call the wrong number or send requests to outdated addresses. Always verify the current phone number and location before contacting. Do not use private recording studios for government records. Avoid third-party websites that mimic official services. Never send cash through the mail. Double-check spelling and dates in written requests. Allow enough time for processing—do not wait until the last minute for court deadlines. If a request is denied, ask for a written explanation and appeal instructions. Keep track of reference numbers for follow-up calls.
Emergency and After-Hours Requests
Most record offices do not handle emergencies outside business hours. However, the TPD Records Division accepts voicemail requests at 850‑891‑4221 after 4:00 p.m. DHSMV offers extended Tuesday hours for urgent motor vehicle needs. For life-threatening medical record requests, hospitals may expedite releases with doctor approval. Always explain the urgency clearly when calling. In true emergencies, contact 911 or go directly to the hospital. Non-urgent requests should wait for regular hours to ensure proper handling and documentation.
Contact Summary Table
| Bureau Name | Phone Number | Address | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Archives & Records Management Bureau | 850‑245‑6600 | 500 South Bronough St, Tallahassee, FL 32399 | Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. |
| State Records Center | 850‑245‑6750 | 4319 Shelfer Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32305 | Mon–Fri, 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. |
| TPD Records Division | 850‑891‑4221 | 234 East 7th Ave, Tallahassee, FL 32303 | Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. |
| Division of Elections | 850‑245‑6240 | 321 E Jefferson St, Tallahassee, FL 32399 | Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. |
| Medical Records – TMH | 850‑431‑5454 | 1300 Miccosukee Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32308 | Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. |
Official Website Links
Florida Department of State – Division of Library and Information Services: https://www.dos.myflorida.com/library-archives/records-management/state-records-center/
Tallahassee Police Department Records: https://talgov.com/publicsafety/tpd-records-division
Division of Elections Contact: https://dos.myflorida.com/elections/contacts/contact-us/
Florida DHSMV Contact: https://www.flhsmv.gov/contact-us/
Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Medical Records: https://www.tmh.org/patients-and-visitors/medical-records
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about the fastest way to get records, correct phone numbers, fees, and whether online requests are safe. Below are detailed answers to the most common questions based on current procedures and official guidelines.
What is the correct phone number for the Bureau of Records in Tallahassee, Florida?
The main phone number for the Archives & Records Management Bureau, the primary government record office in Tallahassee, is 850‑245‑6600. This line connects callers to staff who handle public records, historical documents, and archival research. It operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For law enforcement records, use 850‑891‑4221 for the Tallahassee Police Department. State agency archives are managed by the State Records Center at 850‑245‑6750. Always confirm the bureau matches your document type before calling. Misrouted calls delay service. Have your full name, date of birth, and record details ready to speed up the process.
How long does it take to receive a public record from Tallahassee?
Processing times vary by agency and request method. Walk-in requests at the Archives & Records Management Bureau may be fulfilled immediately if documents are on-site. Mail-in requests to the TPD Records Division typically take 10 to 15 business days. The State Records Center processes requests within 5 to 7 business days for standard documents. Medical records from Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare are usually ready within 3 to 5 days. Rush services are not standard, but urgent legal or medical needs can be flagged when calling. Always include a prepaid return envelope for mailed responses. Delays occur during holidays or high-volume periods.
Are there fees for obtaining records in Tallahassee?
Yes, most agencies charge fees for certified copies. The TPD Records Division charges $10 for certified police reports, with electronic copies costing an extra $5. Medical records from Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare cost $15 for certified copies. Crash reports from the DHSMV are $20 through the online portal. The Archives & Records Management Bureau may charge copying and certification fees based on document size and format. Payment methods include cash, check, money order, or credit card for online requests. Fee waivers are rare and granted only in specific legal or governmental cases. Always ask for a receipt.
Can I request records online or by email?
Some agencies offer online or email options. The DHSMV allows crash report purchases through FloridaCrashPortal.gov. The Division of Elections publishes campaign finance data online. Medical records can be emailed securely after identity verification. The State Records Center accepts email inquiries at recordscenter@dos.myflorida.com. However, not all records are available digitally. Sensitive documents like arrest records or personnel files require written requests with ID verification. Always use official .gov websites. Avoid third-party sites that charge high fees for basic information.
What documents do I need to bring for in-person record requests?
For in-person visits, bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport. If requesting someone else’s records, provide written authorization and their ID copy. For medical records, a signed HIPAA release form is required. Specify the exact document type—such as a birth certificate, crash report, or property deed—to help staff locate it quickly. Arrive during business hours and expect to wait if the document is not immediately available. Some offices have self-service kiosks for crash reports. Keep copies of all submitted forms for your records.
Is it safe to share personal information when requesting records?
Yes, when using official government channels. All Tallahassee record offices follow strict privacy laws. In-person requests require ID checks. Mail and fax submissions must include full names and dates of birth. Email requests are only accepted through secure portals. Never send sensitive information to unofficial websites or unknown phone numbers. Agencies will not ask for Social Security numbers over the phone unless required for verification. Report suspicious requests to the Florida Department of State. Protect your identity by shredding copies of returned documents.
What should I do if my record request is denied?
If a request is denied, the agency must provide a written explanation citing the legal reason, such as privacy restrictions or incomplete information. You can appeal by submitting additional documentation or correcting errors in your application. Contact the bureau supervisor for clarification. For police records, appeals go through the TPD Records Division manager. State records appeals are handled by the Division of Library and Information Services. Keep copies of all correspondence. If unresolved, seek assistance from the Florida First Amendment Foundation or legal counsel. Most denials are due to missing ID or incorrect forms, not refusal of access.
