Are Dash Cams Legal in New Jersey?
Yes, dash cams are legal in New Jersey. However, there are specific regulations regarding their placement and use that drivers must follow to remain compliant with state law.
Mounting and Placement Rules
- Windshield Restrictions:
New Jersey law prohibits mounting non-transparent objects—including dash cams—on the windshield, driver’s side window, or passenger’s side glass if they obstruct the driver’s view. - Recommended Placement:
The safest and most compliant place to mount a dash cam is on the dashboard, where it does not block your view of the road. - Obstruction-Free:
Always ensure your dash cam does not interfere with airbag deployment zones or create a distraction while driving.
Audio and Video Recording Laws
- Single-Party Consent:
New Jersey is a single-party consent state for audio recording. This means you can record audio in your vehicle as long as at least one person in the conversation (which can be you) consents to the recording. - Privacy Considerations:
If your dash cam records audio and you have passengers, it is best practice to inform them that recording is taking place to avoid potential privacy disputes, especially if the footage is used in court.
Use of Dash Cam Footage in Court
- Admissibility:
Dash cam footage is admissible in New Jersey courts if it is relevant to the case and its authenticity can be established. The person submitting the footage may need to prove when and where it was recorded and confirm it has not been tampered with. - Privacy Compliance:
Recordings that violate privacy laws (for example, recording private conversations without consent) may be excluded from evidence.
Summary Table: New Jersey Dash Cam Rules
| Rule/Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal to use dash cams | Yes |
| Windshield/dashboard mounting | Must not obstruct driver’s view; dashboard mounting is recommended |
| Audio recording | Single-party consent required |
| Use in court | Admissible if relevant, authentic, and privacy laws are followed |
| Airbag/deployment zone | Must not interfere |
Key Takeaways
- Dash cams are legal in New Jersey, but must not be mounted on the windshield or in any way that obstructs the driver’s view.
- Dashboard mounting is the safest and most compliant option.
- Audio recording requires single-party consent.
- Footage is admissible in court if it meets relevance, authenticity, and privacy standards.
Always ensure your dash cam is securely mounted and used in accordance with state law to avoid fines or legal complications.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.techradar.com/best/best-dash-cam
[2] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[3] https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[4] https://www.instagram.com/daynowannie/p/DHGFjrERjrd/
[5] https://www.herbertellis.com/blog/dashcam-footage-new-jersey-car-accident/
