Dash cams are legal in Texas, but there are important regulations and best practices drivers must follow to stay compliant with state law.
Legality and Placement
Texas has no law prohibiting dash cams in vehicles, nor does it require them.
Placement is key: Texas Transportation Code 547.613 prohibits any object, including dash cams, from being attached to the windshield, side, or rear windows if it obstructs the driver’s clear view. Violating this law can result in fines up to $1,000.
The safest and most compliant location for a dash cam is on the dashboard, positioned low and on the passenger side, so it does not block your view or interfere with airbag deployment.
Audio and Video Recording
Video recording: You may record the road and the interior of your vehicle. However, you cannot record in areas where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy (such as restrooms).
Audio recording: Texas is a one-party consent state, meaning you can legally record conversations if you are a participant. If you are not present (for example, leaving your car with a mechanic), recording audio may be illegal unless all parties consent. It is recommended to inform passengers if audio is being recorded.
Dash Cam Footage as Evidence
Admissibility: Texas courts allow dash cam footage as evidence if it is relevant, authentic, and does not unfairly prejudice either party. Proper foundation must be laid by explaining when, where, and how the footage was recorded.
Insurance claims: Dash cam footage can help expedite insurance claims and clarify fault in accidents.
Police access: Police generally cannot confiscate or view your dash cam footage without your consent or a warrant, unless they have probable cause that the footage contains evidence of a crime or risk of destruction.
Other Considerations
Screens: Any dash cam screen must not be visible to the driver while driving, as this could be considered a distraction and is prohibited by law.
Obstructing airbags: Never mount a dash cam where it could interfere with airbag deployment, as this is both unsafe and illegal.
Texas Dash Cam Regulations
| Aspect | Legal Status/Requirement |
|---|---|
| Dash cam use | Legal, not required |
| Windshield mounting | Illegal if it obstructs driver’s view |
| Dashboard mounting | Legal, if not obstructing view or airbags |
| Audio recording | Legal if you are a participant (one-party consent) |
| Video recording | Legal, except in areas with expectation of privacy |
| Police access to footage | Consent or warrant required (except for probable cause) |
| Use as evidence | Permitted if relevant and authenticated |
Dash cams are legal in Texas, but they must not obstruct your view or interfere with safety features. Follow best practices for placement and inform passengers if recording audio to ensure full compliance with Texas law.
Sources
[1] https://www.smqlaw.com/do-dash-cams-offer-legal-protection-in-texas/
[2] https://injuryattorneyoftexas.com/texas-dashboard-camera-laws/
[3] https://www.houstoncaraccidentlawyers.org/dash-cams/
[4] https://moore-firm.com/blog/do-i-need-a-dashcam-in-my-vehicle/
[5] https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/
