Legality of Dash Cams
Dash cams are legal for use in Alabama, but there are important regulations regarding where and how they can be installed and used.
Mounting Requirements
Alabama law prohibits mounting dash cams on the windshield. The state’s windshield obstruction law bans any object—including dash cams, GPS units, or smartphones—from being affixed to the windshield if it obstructs the driver’s clear view of the road.
Instead, dash cams must be securely mounted on the dashboard, as long as they do not block the driver’s vision. Improper placement can result in fines or citations.
Audio Recording and Consent
Alabama is an all-party consent state for audio recordings. This means that if your dash cam records audio, you must obtain consent from everyone whose voice is being recorded inside the vehicle. Failing to get consent can violate state privacy laws and lead to legal consequences.
Video recording in public spaces is generally permitted, but secretly recording private conversations without consent is illegal.
Privacy and Admissibility
While dash cam video footage is typically admissible as evidence in court for traffic accidents or incidents, privacy laws apply if the recording occurs on private property or involves private conversations.
If your dash cam footage is subpoenaed by law enforcement or during a court case, you are legally required to provide it. Destroying footage after receiving an order to preserve or submit it is a crime.
Law Enforcement Dash Cam Footage
A proposed law (Senate Bill 24) in 2025 aims to make law enforcement dash and body camera footage public record, with specific procedures for requesting and releasing such footage. This does not affect personal dash cam use but reflects a growing trend toward transparency in official recordings.
Key Points for Alabama Drivers
Dash cams are legal if mounted on the dashboard and do not obstruct the driver’s view.
Windshield mounting is illegal and can result in fines.
All-party consent is required for audio recording inside the vehicle.
Dash cam footage can be used as evidence, but privacy laws must be respected.
Law enforcement or courts may subpoena dash cam recordings as part of investigations or legal proceedings.
Understanding and following these regulations ensures that your dash cam use in Alabama is both legal and effective for protecting your rights on the road.
Sources
[1] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[2] https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[3] https://abc3340.com/news/local/bill-aims-to-make-law-enforcement-body-dash-camera-footage-public-record-senator-merika-coleman-alabama-legislature-2025-legislative-session-public-safety-law-enforcement
[4] https://www.salterferguson.com/alabama-dash-cam-laws/
[5] https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/
