Tennessee PUBLIC RECORDS SEARCH

Tennessee State Public Records Search Online

In Tennessee, public records prove government transparency and accountability. These records, which cover a wide array of information, are accessible to the public under the Tennessee Public Records Act, though there are certain exceptions.

Utilizing these records can be highly beneficial for both personal and professional purposes. For individuals, public records can assist in verifying property ownership, checking criminal backgrounds, and obtaining essential documents. Businesses may use these records to conduct due diligence, evaluate potential partners, and ensure regulatory compliance.

The online availability of these records has streamlined access, allowing Tennesseans to easily obtain and use public information, thereby promoting a more informed community.

What Records are Public in Tennessee?

State law defines public records as documents or information produced, received, or maintained by government agencies during their official functions. These records are considered public and are accessible to citizens, usually under laws that promote openness and trust in government operations.

What is Considered Public Information in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, public records encompass a broad range of materials, including:

• Documents related to legal proceedings
• Information on property ownership, deeds, and transactions
• Records from state and local agencies
• Records of governmental audits, reports, and regulatory filings

Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) Section 10-7-503 states that these records are generally available to the public unless specifically exempted by law for reasons such as privacy concerns or security issues.

Tennessee Public Records Laws

Tennessee public records are governed by both the Tennessee Public Records Act and the federal Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). These laws specify what information is accessible to the public and the conditions under which it can be obtained.

What is the Tennessee Public Records Act?

The Tennessee Public Records Act, overseen by the Office of Open Records Counsel, grants citizens the right to access records held by state and local government agencies. The law is based on the idea that government actions should be transparent and accessible, helping people stay informed and hold public officials accountable.

Under the law, agencies must also respond to records requests within seven business days by either providing the records, denying the request with an explanation, or informing the requester that more time is needed.

Every government agency in the state is required to have a public records policy. This policy must explain how to request records and how the agency will handle these requests. It should also detail fees for copies and include the assigned Public Record Request Coordinator (PRRC).

If a records request is denied, the requestor can appeal to the Comptroller of the Treasury or pursue legal action.

What is the FOIA?

The FOIA (Freedom of Information Act), enacted in 1966, is a federal law that grants the public the right to access records from federal government agencies. Its primary purpose is to promote transparency by allowing citizens to request and obtain documents that reveal government activities and decisions.

FOIA applies to all federal executive branch agencies and covers a wide range of records. However, the law includes nine exemptions that protect certain information from public disclosure. These exemptions cover:

• Personal privacy
• Information related to financial institutions
• Trade secrets
• Classified national security information
• Internal agency rules
• Information protected by other federal laws
• Privileged internal communications
• Law enforcement records
• Geological data on wells

Who Can Access Public Records in Tennessee?

According to the Tennessee Public Records Act, any resident of Tennessee has the right to access and inspect public records held by state and local government agencies. The law applies regardless of their purpose or how they intend to use the information.

Access to public records is not granted to non-Tennessee residents. Furthermore, individuals who are incarcerated in Tennessee correctional facilities generally do not have the same access to public records as other residents.

Tennessee Public Records Search

Tennessee residents have various ways to access public records online and offline. The process for obtaining records can vary depending on the type of record and the agency's policies.

How to Find Tennessee Public Records Online

Tennessee does not have an online centralized database for all public records. Instead, information can typically be found through the following:

Government Websites

Many Tennessee state and local government agencies maintain online portals where specific public records can be searched.

For example, the Tennessee Secretary of State's website offers access to public records like business registrations, professional licenses, and trademark details.

Third-Party Sites

While third-party websites may also provide access to public records, they often aggregate information from various sources. They may not always provide the most current or complete information, and they often charge fees for access.

In contrast, government-provided resources are typically free for residents. Using official sites and databases is generally the best approach to obtaining accurate, reliable, and cost-effective public records in Tennessee.

How to Find Tennessee Public Records Offline

To access Tennessee public records offline, follow these steps:

In-Person Requests

Visiting agencies in person to process requests provides immediate access to records and the chance for direct assistance from agency staff. The steps typically include:

• Identify the agency that holds the records needed.
• Go to the agency's office during business hours and request assistance from the records custodian or public information officer.
• Supply specific information about the requested records, including type, date range, and other relevant details.
• Fill out any forms required by the agency.
• Pay any applicable fees for copying or processing the records.

Mail-In Requests

Mail-in requests provide a documented and convenient way to obtain records without needing to visit the office physically. The usual steps are:

• Identify the office responsible for managing the records.
• Find the mailing address of the records custodian or public information office.
• Complete a form or write a request letter and include details about the records needed and any identifying information.
• Provide contact details and specify the preferred method for receiving the records (mail, email, or pickup).
• Add any required fees for copying and processing.
• Mail the form or the request letter and payment to the agency's mailing address.

Phone Requests

Calling through the phone allows for quick inquiries and faster processing if the agency can fulfill the request over the call. The process is usually as follows:

• Identify the agency maintaining the records to be requested.
• Find the contact number for the records custodian or public information office.
• Make the call, explain the records needed, and provide the necessary details.
• Provide contact details and the preferred method for receiving the records.

The Open Records Counsel provides information on state contacts and county contacts for public record requests.

Types of Public Records in Tennessee

In Tennessee, government agencies carefully maintain various records, ranging from the budgets of public schools and decisions made by the State Board of Medical Examiners to detailed documentation of healthcare procedures and their outcomes. Some of the most commonly accessed records in the state include:

State of Tennessee Public Court Records

Tennessee public court records provide valuable insights into legal proceedings across the state. These records typically include details on various case types, such as criminal, civil, probate, and juvenile cases. Information found in these records often includes case dockets, legal briefs, court transcripts, and rulings issued by judges.

Access to these records is generally governed by the Public Records Act, although certain sensitive information, such as juvenile or sealed cases, may be restricted.

To obtain Tennessee court records, individuals must first identify the court where the case was filed. Various courts are designated to handle different types of cases:

• Supreme Court: As Tennessee's highest court, It reviews all cases in the state but as a last resort.
• Criminal Court of Appeals: This court hears appeals on cases previously tried in Circuit Courts.
• Court of Appeals: This court reviews non-criminal cases from lower courts when a party seeks to challenge the decision.
• Chancery Courts: These courts address matters of equity, dealing with cases like land disputes and asset division among spouses who are legally separating.
• Circuit Courts: These courts are responsible for both civil and criminal cases.

The Public Case History tool allows users to view cases handled by the Court of Criminal Appeals, Court of Appeals, and Supreme Court. It offers access to the status of cases through the Appellate Court Clerk's C-Track case management system.

Users can view appeal statuses and procedural histories and access opinions, judgments, orders, and motions filed since August 26, 2013.

The Tennessee State Library and Archives (TSLA) also maintains records from Supreme Court cases.

Lower courts offer online portals for searching and requesting records, but if online access isn't available, it may be necessary to visit the courthouse in person or submit a written request. Procedures for accessing records and any associated fees vary depending on the specific court.

Tennessee Public Bankruptcy Records

In Tennessee, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court manages bankruptcy records in the following divisions:

• Western District of Tennessee
• Middle District of Tennessee
• Eastern District of Tennessee

Bankruptcy records in the state include details about bankruptcy filings, such as Chapter 7, 11, or 13 cases, creditor lists, asset and liability schedules, court orders, trustee reports, and hearing transcripts. Access to these records follows federal guidelines outlined in the Bankruptcy Code and Federal Rules of Bankruptcy Procedure.

Individuals can access records online through the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system, which requires registration and charges a fee per page. For basic information, the Voice Case Information System (VCIS) and the Appellate Voice Information System (AVIS) offer free phone-based access to unsealed records.

Those seeking physical copies or more detailed records can visit the clerk's office at the relevant bankruptcy court.

County Court Records in Tennessee

Due to the decentralized management of county court records, the process for accessing them varies widely from one county to another. Each county manages its own records for criminal and civil cases, which may include documents from general session courts, juvenile courts, probate courts, and other specialized courts.

The availability of these records and the ease of access can depend on the specific county's practices. While some counties provide online databases that allow residents to search, view, and even pay for copies of court records, others may offer limited or no online access, requiring individuals to visit the courthouse in person.

Commonly available records include case dockets, court orders, judgments, and legal filings, though access to sensitive information, such as juvenile cases or sealed records, may be restricted.

Tennessee Criminal Records

Tennessee criminal records cover various types of documentation, including arrest records, conviction records, incarceration records, and parole or probation records. These records typically contain personal details such as:

• Individual's name
• Birth date
• Mugshot
• Information about the arrest, charges, court proceedings, sentencing, and parole or probation status

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), along with local law enforcement agencies and the court system, is responsible for maintaining these records. The TBI serves as the central repository for state criminal history information.

While many Tennessee criminal records are accessible to the public, certain records, such as those involving juveniles or sealed cases, may be restricted.

The public can obtain criminal record information by requesting background checks from the TBI or local law enforcement agencies. Background check results from the TBI are delivered electronically. However, access to some sensitive or confidential information within these records may require specific authorization or justification.

Tennessee Public Arrest Records

In Tennessee, arrest records are generally available to the public. However, certain records may be exempt from disclosure under the FOIA (Freedom of Information Act).

These records are typically maintained and distributed by local law enforcement agencies or county sheriff's offices. Some counties offer online tools for searching arrest records, while others may require requests to be made by mail or in person. Additionally, other public records can be accessed through the TennCare Public Records Portal.

An arrest record in Tennessee provides official information about individuals who have been detained by law enforcement. This record includes details such as:

• Individual's name
• Date of birth
• Race
• Physical description
• Fingerprints stored in the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS)

In the state, an arrest record does not always indicate that criminal charges were filed, as an arrest does not always lead to formal charges. Additionally, arrest records differ from police reports. While arrest records focus on the individual arrested, police reports document the actions of law enforcement officers.

Tennessee Vital Records

Vital records are key documents that track major life events, offering valuable information for public health, policy-making, and family history research. The Office of Vital Records under the Tennessee Department of Health manages these records in the state.

To search for vital records online, requesters should provide:

• The full name as it appears on the certificate
• The gender listed
• Relevant dates and place
• Requester's relationship to the person on the record

The Office of Vital Records has partnered with VitalChek to process record requests. The company is the only approved vendor for online ordering in the state.

All application forms must be signed and include a valid ID. If the application is notarized, additional identification may not be required.

Tennessee Public Birth Records

In Tennessee, access to birth records is regulated based on the date of the record and the requester's relationship to the individual listed on the certificate.

Birth records from 1920 to the present can be requested from the Office of Vital Records. However, requesters are limited to the following:

• The person identified on the record
• Their spouse
• Their parents or guardians
• Their children
• Their authorized representatives

Individuals can go to the TSLA (Tennessee State Library and Archives) for records from 1908 to 1912 and from 1914 to 1919. Statewide birth records were not maintained in Tennessee before 1908, so earlier records are unavailable.

Requests by mail must contain the accomplished PH-1654 form, valid government ID, and the necessary payment and be sent to:

Tennessee Public Death Records

Tennessee death records serve as legal proof of death. They serve various purposes, ranging from insurance claims to legal proceedings. These records typically include:

• Personal details of the deceased, such as gender and marital status
• Date and place of death
• Details of birth
• Social Security number (SSN)
• Their parents' name
• Their spouse's name

The TSLA (Tennessee State Library and Archives) holds an index of death records from 1908 to 1912 and 1914 to 1933. For records from 1970 onward, individuals should contact the Office of Vital Records. The National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) can also be checked for broader access to U.S. death records.

Access to these records is generally limited to individuals with a direct interest, such as those organizations providing benefits to the deceased's beneficiaries or researchers, with the State Registrar's approval. Requests by mail should have an accomplished PH-1663 form and be sent to the provided address for the Office of Vital Records.

Tennessee Public Marriage Records

In Tennessee, marriage records are generally available to the public. A marriage record documents the details of a marital union, including the names of the couple and the time and location where the marriage occurred.

Records for marriages that occurred before 1970 can be accessed at the TSLA (Tennessee State Library and Archives). However, marriage records from Davidson County between May 1941 and June 1945 are only available at the Metropolitan Archives.

The Office of Vital Records maintains records from 1970 onward. Access to these more recent records is restricted to individuals named on the certificate or those with a direct relationship to them, such as a spouse or child.

Individuals can visit the county clerk's office where the marriage was performed to view public marriage records for free. A small fee may be required to obtain copies.

Tennessee Public Divorce Records

In Tennessee, divorce records from 1945 to 1969 are generally accessible to the public at the TSLA (Tennessee State Library and Archives). However, some records may be restricted by law, court order, or other regulations.

For divorces less than 50 years old, access is limited to individuals with a direct or legitimate interest and can be obtained from the Office of Vital Records. This office may also withhold certain confidential sections of the records unless the request is for research or statistical purposes.

To search for or obtain divorce records at the TSLA, individuals must provide detailed information, including the names of both spouses, the date of the divorce (or a five-year range), and the county where the divorce occurred, if available.

Court minutes can also be used to locate divorce records in the state. When using court minutes for searches, specify the names of both parties, the year of the divorce (or a five-year range), the county, and the court.

For divorces occurring after 1834, cases involving property disputes were filed in the Chancery Court, while those without property disputes were handled by the Circuit Court.

Tennessee Property Records

Under TCA (Tennessee Code Annotated) Section 10-7-504, residents have the right to access property records. These records can be obtained from the court unless the property has been restricted from public view.

Property records are available through government agencies or third-party websites. Although third-party sites often provide convenient access to records without geographical limitations, the information may vary since these sites are not government-affiliated.

To obtain complete property records, individuals should provide:

• Full address of the property
• Name and personal information of the property owner

Property records contain important information such as:

• Records of property taxes
• Mortgage
• Liens
• Plat
• Deeds such as deed of trust, grant deed, and general warranty

In Tennessee, property records are typically managed by county officials. Requests can be made by visiting the local Registrar of Deeds office or using online services if available in their county. Residents can also access these records by visiting the local county court, the County Register's office, or the Local Tax Assessor's office.

TSLA (Tennessee State Library and Archives) keeps microfilmed records of much older property records in the state.

Tennessee Inmate Records

Tennessee inmate records provide a comprehensive overview of individuals incarcerated within the state. These records typically include:

• Personal information
• State agency number and State Identification (SID) number
• Information about the facility where the inmate is held, booking date, expected release date, and sentencing details
• Details about the inmate's charges, convictions, and sentencing
• Records of any disciplinary actions or incident reports during incarceration
• Parole and probation status

In Tennessee, inmate records are generally accessible to the public. The Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) offers a Felony Offender Information lookup tool that allows users to view records for both current and past inmates. Records can be found using the inmate's name or alias, TDOC ID, or SID.

Tennessee Traffic Records

Tennessee traffic or driving records (MVR) provide comprehensive details about a driver's behavior and vehicle operations within the state. Key types of information included in these records are:

• Records of any issued traffic citations or tickets
• Information on arrests related to traffic offenses
• Documentation of court proceedings related to traffic violations
• Driver's license information, including any suspensions, revocations, or points accumulated
• Vehicle registration and ownership
• Accident reports
• Statistical data compiled by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOS)

They are used for various purposes, including monitoring driver behavior, determining insurance rates, and supporting legal proceedings.

In Tennessee, most traffic records are publicly accessible, although there are exceptions for sensitive or juvenile data. Drivers can request their MVRs, which show up to ten years of driving history, through the TDOS e-Services or at a Driver Services Center.

The state also has an Interactive Moving Violation Records online tool to view traffic offenses committed by state drivers. However, only authorized users according to the Federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) and subscribers can access the information.

License Plate Lookup in Tennessee

Online license plate lookups obtain information from records managed by the Tennessee Department of Revenue (DOR). Users only need to provide the license plate number and issuing state to access essential details about the vehicle, such as its make, model, and year.

The search can reveal important information, such as any outstanding liens, accident history, and repair records. Although certain information is available to the public, personal details about vehicle owners are protected by privacy laws. To access sensitive information, individuals must have appropriate authorization or a valid reason.

What Information is Exempt from the Public Records Act in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, certain information is excluded from public access to uphold privacy and security. Such information includes:

• Records protected by state or federal laws, such as details related to ongoing criminal investigations
• Personal information, including SSN (Social Security number), bank account details
• Protected educational records under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
• Information about undercover officers, confidential informants, ongoing investigations,
• Business-related trade secrets and sensitive financial information
• Information concerning security systems, emergency preparedness, and critical infrastructure

The Office of Open Records Counsel published a report detailing statutory exceptions in 2018. A searchable Public Records Exception Database is also available.

Other Public Records in Tennessee

Here are additional types of public records available in Tennessee:

• Health data: Statistics on public health issues, disease outbreaks, and health services
• Water quality reports: Information on pollution levels and assessments of water quality
• Sex offender registry: Data on registered sex offenders, including their locations and criminal history
• Business records: Details on business licenses, registrations, and corporate filings
• Environmental monitoring reports: Reports on environmental conditions and compliance with regulations
• Voter registration lookup: Provides information on voter registration status and precincts
• Property assessment data: Includes valuation information for real estate properties

Frequently Asked Questions

For additional details about public records in Tennessee, refer to the frequently asked questions below:

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