Dash cams are increasingly common in vehicles across New York, providing drivers with valuable evidence in the event of accidents, disputes, or insurance claims. However, while dash cams are legal to use, there are important state regulations and best practices you must follow to remain compliant and protect your rights.
Are Dash Cams Legal in New York?
Yes, dash cams are legal in New York. There is no state law prohibiting the installation or use of dashboard cameras in non-commercial vehicles. In fact, New York even incentivizes dash cam use; a state bill offers a 5% insurance premium reduction for noncommercial passenger vehicles equipped with an operating dash cam.
Placement and Mounting: Where Can You Put a Dash Cam?
While you are free to use a dash cam, how you install it matters:
Mounting Rules: New York Vehicle and Traffic Law §375(30) mandates that no objects, including dash cams, may obstruct the driver’s view or interfere with airbag deployment. Mounting a camera in a way that blocks your windshield, side mirrors, or is in the driver’s line of sight can result in a ticket.
Recommended Placement: Place your dash cam just behind the rearview mirror, the bottom right (passenger side) corner of the windshield, or on the dashboard. Avoid mounting on the driver’s side glass or hanging the unit from the rearview mirror.
Audio Recording: Consent Required
Single-Party Consent State: New York is a “one-party consent” state for audio recordings. This means you can legally record conversations inside the car if you are a participant in the conversation.
Best Practice: It is still advisable to inform all passengers that audio is being recorded, especially since surreptitious recording of private conversations could potentially cross legal lines. If someone objects, you must disable the audio recording unless you are party to the conversation and they remain in the vehicle.
Privacy and Use of Video
Video Recording: You are allowed to video record in public places where there’s no expectation of privacy, such as roads and highways. Footage must be focused on the road, not actively positioned to record specific individuals inside or outside the car without their consent.
Pointing Cameras: Do not aim the dash cam at passengers or use it to record interiors where privacy may be expected.
Admissibility of Dash Cam Footage in Court
Dash cam footage is routinely accepted as evidence in New York courts, provided it is relevant, authentic, and untampered. To ensure your video is admissible:
Do not edit or alter footage.
Back up the recording immediately after an incident.
Make sure your camera is installed and used in compliance with New York law.
Insurance Benefits
Operating a dash cam in your vehicle could make you eligible for a 5% reduction on your automobile insurance, provided your configuration meets the state’s definition of “operating” (it must be functional and properly mounted).
Key Takeaways
Dash cams are legal in New York if properly mounted and not obstructing the driver’s view.
Audio recording requires you to be a participant in the conversation (“one-party consent”) and disclosure is best.
Avoid pointing the camera at passengers or manipulating it to record private conversations or individuals.
Dash cam footage can be used as legal evidence.
Improper placement may result in tickets or footage being inadmissible in court.
Check local ordinances or HOA/complex rules, as some locations may have additional regulations.
By following these guidelines, New York drivers can safely and effectively use dash cams for protection, accident evidence, and even potential insurance savings. Responsible use, compliance with placement and consent laws, and careful handling of video evidence are essential for getting the most from your dash cam.
Sources
[1] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/07/20/understanding-dash-cam-regulations-in-new-york/
[2] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[3] https://www.curanahlers.com/post/are-dash-cameras-legal-in-new-york
[4] https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/
[5] https://www.blackboxmycar.com/pages/are-dash-cams-legal-in-my-area-dash-cam-laws-in-every-us-state
