In Idaho, public records remain available for many of the specific types of data individuals and businesses need to have access to. There are some limitations on what type of information is considered public record in the state. More so, some states require specific data to be readily available to government offices for inspection as necessary. In the state, the Idaho Public Records Law or IPRL provides for disclosure and definition in regards to the state's governing over such data.

Understanding the Law

Under this law, any individual has the right to examine and to copy the public records that are open during any time that is considered reasonable unless it is expressly noted otherwise why they cannot. Upon your request for this information, the state must provide a copy of the public record that has been certified as an official record. The only limitations in terms of who can access this information have to do with how it is used. Individuals do have to provide their name and identification, but there is no other limit unless the individual plans to use the information to perform an illegal act, including use the data as a mailing list.

Information that is not available as Idaho public record includes data that could infringe on a person's privacy, information that could hinder an open investigation, data that could jeopardize the public's safety in some way or data that could damage operations of the state and entities associated with it.

What Type Is Available?

In Idaho, public records include most types of data. There are few limitations except where indicated above. In a court of law, the judge does have the right to limit information from being on the public record. He or she may do this to protect the innocent, to limit the risk of a minor or because the data is otherwise sensitive in nature. The following types of data remain available.

·         Vital statistic information including birth certificates, death certificates, burial records and marriage license/divorce documentation

 

·         Property exchanges, including title transfers, leasing information, land trusts, details regarding taxation, mortgages and liens on the property

 

·         Criminal records in most cases

 

·         The details and outcomes of most criminal cases

 

·         The details and outcomes of most civil cases

 

·         Government minutes and meeting details, from most agencies at the local, county and state level

Individuals who wish to obtain this information have several ways to do so. The most common method is through an online search for the data. This data remains available to the public through third parties and through some of the state's department's websites. In some situations, it is necessary for individuals to visit the actual offices of the departments to gather information and Idaho public records. Some of those agencies are listed here.

·         The Idaho Transportation Department provides accident reports and motor vehicle records.

 

·         For business documents and details, the Attorney General's Office provides resources.

 

·         Vital Records manages all birth and death certificates and other vital statistics.

Many of the Idaho public records are available online. Finding them may be less difficult than you think, too.

• Idaho Census 2000 Highlights

• Idaho Mapstats from FedStats

• Idaho QuickLinks

• Idaho State & County QuickFacts

• Idaho State Tax Commission

• Idaho Vital Records