Dash Cam Legality Varies by State, Requiring Specific Placement Rules

Dash Cam Legality and Purpose

Dash cams are legal in all US states and serve various purposes, including recording evidence for accidents or break-ins, monitoring driving habits, and capturing road incidents. The footage captured in public places can be authenticated and used in court.

While dash cams are legal, specific rules govern their use, particularly concerning placement and size, which vary from state to state. It is crucial for drivers to understand these regulations, especially when undertaking road trips that cross state borders.

Varying Placement Regulations

A common rule across many states, including Alaska, Arizona, California, Florida, and others, dictates that a dash cam must not obstruct the driver's view. This is considered a logical safety rule to follow universally.

Beyond general obstruction, some states have precise placement requirements. For instance, California mandates mounting within a seven-inch square in the lower corner or a five-inch square in the upper-center or corner nearest the driver. Illinois requires placement in the bottom corner of the passenger side of the windshield.

Restrictions on Windshield Mounting

Certain states impose stricter limitations on dash cam mounting. In Alabama, Delaware, and Louisiana, dash cams cannot be mounted on the windshield at all. States like Pennsylvania and Minnesota prohibit anything from being mounted on the windshield, requiring dash cams to be placed on the dashboard instead.