Are Dash Cams Legal? Windshield Mounting & Audio Recording by State

The short version

Are dash cams legal? Yes — in all 50 states. They’re legal to own and use everywhere in the US.

The nuance lives in two places: where you’re allowed to mount it, and whether you can record audio. Both vary by state, so it’s worth two minutes of reading before you stick one to the glass.

(This is general information, not legal advice — check your own state’s current rules.)

Windshield mounting rules

Many states restrict objects on the windshield because they can obstruct your view. Some — including California, Pennsylvania, and Washington — limit where on the glass you can mount, often allowing only a small square in a lower corner or requiring placement behind the mirror.

The safe move everywhere: mount behind the rear-view mirror. Out of your sightline, almost always compliant regardless of state. Mounting to the dash sidesteps windshield rules entirely if you want to keep it simple.

Audio recording is the real gotcha

Video of public roads is broadly fine in every state. Audio is where things get complicated.

A number of states are “all-party consent” — everyone being recorded must agree. This includes California, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Washington, and others. That matters most for:

• Rideshare drivers recording passengers — post a visible “audio/video recording in progress” notice and you’re generally on solid ground
• Anyone who shares or publishes cabin audio publicly

Don’t want to deal with it? You can usually switch audio recording off in the camera’s settings. Most people do.

Practical rules of thumb

• Mount behind the mirror; keep your sightline clear
• If you carry passengers, let them know recording is on
• Check your state’s specific windshield and consent laws — they do change
• Footage you record on public roads is generally yours to keep and share

Bottom line

Dash cams are legal everywhere in the US. Mount smart, handle audio consent, and you’re covered. See the cameras we track.