The Freedom of Information Act Program (DODR 5400.7) allows the general public to request records electronically or in writing from the Federal Government.

Some records are released to the public under the Freedom of Information Act, and may therefore reflect deletion of some information in accordance with the FOIA's nine statutory exemptions or two law enforcement record exclusions.

A consolidated list of such records is on Defense Link and the U.S. Air Force FOIA site. Currently the law allows 20 working-days to process a FOIA request upon receipt of the request by the FOIA office.

It is important to remember that the Freedom of Information Act applies only to federal agencies. It does not create a right of access to records held by Congress, the courts, state or local government agencies, or by private businesses or individuals. Each state has its own public access laws that should by consulted for access to state and local records.

Who may request records in writing:

Members of the public

• Including foreign citizens;
• military and civilian personnel acting as private citizens;
• organizations and businesses;
• and individual members of the Congress for themselves or constituents

Fees are assessed depending on which group the request falls into:

Category 1: Commercial. Requesters pay all search, review, and duplication.

Category 2: Educational or Noncommercial Scientific Institution or News Media. Requesters get the first 100 copies free and pay for additional copies.

Category 3: Others. Requesters get the first two hours of search and the first 100 copies free.

Send requests to:
FOIA OFFICE 
(Address Pending) 

Please ensure you mention "FOIA." Indicate a willingness to pay fees associated with the processing of your request or, in the alternative, why a waiver of fees may be appropriate.

Written requests may be received by postal service or facsimile.

Faxed requests must have a return mailing address included.