- Dash cams are legal in South Carolina, but there are strict rules about where they can be mounted. State law prohibits mounting dash cams on the windshield or any windows. Instead, dash cams must be mounted on the dashboard and must not obstruct the driver’s clear view of the road.
Audio Recording Laws
- South Carolina is a single-party consent state for audio recordings. This means you can legally record audio in your vehicle as long as at least one party (which can be you) consents to the recording.
Admissibility in Legal Proceedings
- Dash cam footage is generally admissible as evidence in court if it was recorded legally-that is, if the camera was properly mounted and, for audio, if consent requirements are met.
Privacy Considerations
- While recording public roads is allowed, recording private conversations inside your car without consent could raise privacy concerns. Always ensure your use of a dash cam aligns with state privacy laws.
Summary Table: South Carolina Dash Cam Rules
| Aspect | Regulation |
|---|---|
| Legality | Legal |
| Mounting | Dashboard only; illegal on windshield or windows; must not block driver’s view |
| Audio Recording | Single-party consent required |
| Use as Evidence | Admissible if recorded legally |
Key Takeaways
- Mount your dash cam on the dashboard-not the windshield or windows-to comply with South Carolina law.
- Ensure your dash cam does not obstruct your view of the road.
- You may record audio as long as at least one party in the vehicle consents.
- Dash cam footage can be used in court, but improper mounting or recording could make it inadmissible.
Following these guidelines will help you use a dash cam legally and effectively in South Carolina.
