Every year lakhs of people search for FIR copy download options because they need the First Information Report for an insurance claim, a bail application, a court case or simply to track the progress of their complaint. The good news is that in most states you can get your FIR copy online within hours, and the law gives you the right to a free copy from the police station as well. This guide explains how an FIR copy can be obtained, who is entitled to it, and what to do if the police refuse.
What Is an FIR Copy and Why Do You Need It?
A First Information Report (FIR) is the written record prepared by the police when they receive information about a cognizable offence. The FIR copy is the official printed or digital version of that record, carrying the FIR number, date, police station, sections invoked and the details given by the complainant.
You typically need an FIR copy for:
- Filing insurance claims after theft, accident or fire
- Applying for bail or anticipatory bail
- Seeking quashing of an FIR or contesting a case in court
- Replacing lost documents such as a passport, driving licence or RC
- Following up on the investigation with senior officers
Your Legal Right to a Free FIR Copy
Under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS), which replaced the Code of Criminal Procedure from July 2024, the information given to the police is recorded under Section 173 (earlier Section 154 CrPC). The law requires that a copy of the recorded information be given to the informant free of cost and that the information be read over to the informant before they sign it.
You can read the full text and summary of the Sanhita on the PRS Legislative Research page on the BNSS.
Zero FIR and e-FIR
The BNSS also recognises a Zero FIR, which can be registered at any police station irrespective of jurisdiction, and electronic communication of information, which must be signed by the informant within three days to be taken on record. Our guide on Zero FIR in India explains this in detail.
How to Do an FIR Copy Download Online
Following directions of the Supreme Court in Youth Bar Association of India v. Union of India (2016), police are expected to upload FIRs on their official websites, ordinarily within 24 hours of registration. Exceptions exist for sensitive matters such as certain sexual offences, offences involving juveniles, or cases where disclosure could endanger someone. The process is broadly the same everywhere:
- Visit the official website of your state or city police. Most have a “View FIR”, “Citizen Services” or “Download FIR” option. Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Haryana, Bihar and several other states have dedicated portals.
- Select the district and police station where the FIR was registered.
- Enter the details such as FIR number, year, date range, or in some portals the complainant’s name or mobile number.
- Verify with an OTP or captcha where required.
- Download the PDF and save a copy. Take a printout for court or insurance purposes.
Always use only the official government police website. Avoid third-party sites that charge a fee, as the copy is meant to be free.
Tips if the FIR Is Not Showing Online
- Wait 24 to 48 hours, as uploading can be delayed.
- Check that the FIR number, year and police station are entered correctly.
- Note that sensitive FIRs are deliberately not published online.
- If the FIR was a Zero FIR, it may have been transferred to another station and will appear there under a new number.
How to Get an FIR Copy From the Police Station
If the portal does not work, visit the police station where the FIR was registered and request the copy in writing. Keep the following ready:
- A short application addressed to the Station House Officer (SHO) mentioning the FIR number and date
- A government photo ID
- Your acknowledgement or complaint receipt, if any
Ask for a receiving copy of your application. If the police still do not respond, you can use the Right to Information route; see our guide on how to file an RTI application in India.
Can the Accused Get an FIR Copy?
The free copy under the BNSS is meant for the informant. An accused person usually cannot demand the copy as of right from the station in the same way, but where the FIR is public online, it can be downloaded by anyone. An accused may also obtain a certified copy through their advocate by applying to the court, and the supply of police report documents to the accused happens later in the court process. If you are named in an FIR, speak to a criminal lawyer about next steps such as bail, or quashing of the FIR.
What If the Police Refuse to Give the FIR Copy?
If the station refuses to register the FIR or give you a copy, you have remedies:
- Send the substance of your complaint in writing to the Superintendent of Police or the equivalent senior officer, who can direct registration or investigation (earlier Section 154(3) CrPC, now provided in Section 173 BNSS).
- Approach the Judicial Magistrate with an application seeking a direction to register the FIR (earlier Section 156(3) CrPC, now Section 175(3) BNSS).
- Complain to the state Human Rights Commission or police complaints authority if the refusal amounts to harassment.
For online offences, complaints can also be lodged through the national portal; see our guide on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an FIR copy free in India?
Yes. The informant is entitled to a copy of the FIR free of cost, and police websites do not charge for downloading it.
Can I download an FIR copy without the FIR number?
Some state portals allow a search by date range, police station or complainant name, but many require the FIR number. If you do not have it, visit the police station with your ID and application.
How long does it take for an FIR to appear online?
It is expected to be uploaded within about 24 hours, though delays are common. Sensitive cases may not be uploaded at all.
Is a downloaded FIR copy valid in court and for insurance?
A downloaded copy is generally accepted for most practical purposes such as insurance, but for court filings you may be asked for a certified copy, so check with your advocate.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Procedures and portals differ by state and may change. Please consult a qualified advocate for advice on your specific situation.