Public disclosure

What are public records?

A public record is any recorded information relating to the conduct of government or the performance of its functions. They're prepared, owned, used, or retained by any state or local agency, regardless of physical form or characteristics.

See how to request public records.

We may keep records in handwriting, typewriting, print, photocopies, photographs, or electronic media. We may also use any other means of recording, including but not limited to:

• Papers.
• Maps.
• Magnetic or paper tapes.
• Photographic films and prints.
• Motion picture, film, and video recordings.
• Magnetic or punched cards.
• Discs, diskettes, or other electronic media.
• Sound recordings.
• Data compilations from which information may be obtained or translated.

See more about the types of public records.

What public records are subject to disclosure?

State and federal laws may protect sensitive and confidential information found in a public record. This may include:

• Driver and vehicle information.
• Details for facility and/or network security.
• Specific details that are part of an open investigation.

We screen every request and every record before disclosing it. This is to protect private information as allowed by law. Sometimes we will redact information from a record. When this happens, we include an explanation of the redaction as well as a legal citation.

See the laws and rules governing disclosure of public records.

Questions? Need help?

• Call us: 360.902.7100
• Email us: PublicRecords@dol.wa.gov
• Send us mail:
  Department of Licensing
  Attn: Public Records Officer
  PO Box 2957
  Olympia, WA 98507-2957