Dash cams have become an increasingly popular device among drivers for safety, security, and evidence collection in case of accidents. In North Dakota, the use of dash cams is legal, but there are specific regulations governing where and how these devices may be installed and used. This article provides an overview of the current dash cam regulations in North Dakota as of 2025.
Legality of Dash Cam Use
In North Dakota, it is legal to own and use a dash camera in a vehicle. Dash cams can serve as valuable tools for recording traffic incidents, protecting against insurance fraud, and providing evidence in legal matters.
The state does not prohibit the recording of video inside or outside the vehicle, provided the recordings comply with applicable privacy expectations and laws. However, users must be aware of location and privacy considerations when choosing how to position and operate dash cams.
Placement Restrictions
North Dakota law explicitly prohibits mounting dash cameras on the windshield or any window of the vehicle. This is to ensure that the driver’s view of the road is not obstructed, which is critical for safe driving.
Any stickers, posters, or dash cams must be removed from windows. Instead, the dashboard is the ideal and lawful location for mounting dash cams in North Dakota. This placement ensures that the device does not interfere with visibility or violate state regulations.
Audio Recording and Privacy
While video recording is generally permitted, audio recording can raise privacy concerns. North Dakota follows the single-party consent rule for audio recordings, meaning at least one person involved in the conversation must consent to the recording.
Drivers should inform passengers if audio is being recorded when inside the vehicle to avoid potential legal issues. Recording private conversations without proper consent could lead to violations of privacy laws and affect the admissibility of footage in legal proceedings.
Use of Dash Cam Footage in Court
Dash cam footage can be admissible as evidence in court cases involving traffic accidents, criminal incidents, or disputes related to driving conduct. Courts typically accept such footage if it is legally obtained and authentic.
Issues may arise, however, if the footage violates privacy expectations or is tampered with. Legal counsel can assist in ensuring that dash cam evidence is properly presented and admissible in North Dakota’s courts.
Summary and Practical Tips
To comply with North Dakota’s dash cam regulations, drivers should:
Mount dash cams only on the dashboard to avoid obstructing the windshield.
Remove any stickers, posters, or devices from windows.
Inform passengers if audio recording is enabled inside the vehicle.
Use dash cams responsibly to respect the privacy of others.
Keep recordings secure and unaltered to preserve their evidentiary value.
By following these guidelines, North Dakota drivers can effectively use dash cams as safety tools while adhering to state laws.
North Dakota permits the use of dash cams with important caveats regarding placement and audio recording consent. The dashboard is the appropriate place to install these devices to ensure legal compliance and avoid obstructing the driver’s view. Understanding these rules helps drivers protect themselves legally and maintain safe driving practices.
Sources
(https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/)
(https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state)
(https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/)
(https://www.pringlelaw.net/is-dash-cam-footage-admissible-in-court/)
(https://hot975fm.com/are-dash-cams-legal-to-use-in-north-dakota/)
(https://www.blackboxmycar.com/pages/are-dash-cams-legal-in-my-area-dash-cam-laws-in-every-us-state)
