Dashcams have become a familiar sight on UK roads. Whether it’s for peace of mind, protection against fraud, or just keeping track of your driving skills, more and more drivers are choosing to press record when behind the wheel.
But are dashcams actually legal in the UK? And are there any rules you need to follow when installing or using one? Here’s what the law says – and how to stay on the right side of it.
Are dashcams legal in the UK?
Yes, dashcams are legal to use across the UK in both personal and commercial vehicles. Not only can they offer peace of mind on the road, but they may also help lower your insurance premium – particularly with insurance companies like us who reward careful driving.
That said, a dashcam won’t automatically reduce your costs. Discounts aren’t guaranteed across the board, so it’s worth checking whether your insurance company offers one when setting up or renewing your policy.
Some drivers can save up to 15% on their car insurance with us, but only if the dashcam is installed correctly and used regularly. If you’ve declared a dashcam on your policy but don’t keep it switched on, your insurance provider could refuse to pay out in the event of a claim.
Dashcam installation: what’s allowed
UK law is clear that dashcams must not obstruct your view of the road. This is part of Rule 30 of the The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 legislation. To stay compliant:
- Make sure your dashcam doesn’t block your windscreen. Ideally, place it behind the rear-view mirror, high up on the passenger side
- Check your visibility from the driver’s seat. If the dashcam obstructs your view even slightly, it could invalidate your insurance
- Ensure any wires are tucked away safely and don’t interfere with controls
Do I need to tell passengers that I am recording?
Yes. But only if your dashcam records inside the vehicle as well.
Under the UK GDPR laws, if your dashcam captures audio or video of people inside the vehicle, you’re legally required to inform them that they’re being recorded. This is especially important for driving instructors, taxi drivers, or anyone using their vehicle for work.
You don’t need written consent, but a clear sticker or notice inside the vehicle is usually enough to meet legal obligations.
Absolutely. In fact, dashcam footage is regularly accepted by UK police forces to support investigations. If you capture dangerous driving or collisions, many forces now have online portals where you can upload footage directly.
Just make sure the video is:
- Time-stamped
- Shows the full context of the incident
- Unedited
It is also a good idea to add your own contact details and vehicle registration when submitting footage.
Yes, your recordings are classed as your personal data. However, if you are using footage for commercial purposes – for example, as a driving instructor or delivery driver – you may need to register with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) as a data controller.
This is especially important if you regularly keep recordings involving other people.
Staying legal with your dashcam
Dashcams can be a great tool in keeping drivers accountable – and keeping you protected. But they do come with responsibility.
To stay on the right side of the law:
- Install your dashcam safely
- Let your passengers know when they are being recorded
- Only share footage for legitimate purposes
- Keep your view of the road clear at all times
Get cover for dashcams
Adrian Flux offers specialist cover for all kinds of drivers and their vehicles, including those using dashcams. Speak to our friendly UK team about getting tailored insurance that suits your driving needs. Call us on 0800 369 8590 or book a callback at a time that suits you.
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