Dash cams are legal in Pennsylvania, but their use is subject to several important regulations regarding placement and audio recording.
Mounting Requirements:
Your dash cam must be installed in a way that does not obstruct the driver’s view or cause distraction. Placing a dash cam in a location that blocks your vision through the windshield or interferes with your ability to drive safely is not permitted. The safest and most compliant locations are typically behind the rearview mirror or low on the dashboard, as long as your view remains clear.
Audio Recording Laws:
Pennsylvania is a two-party consent state for audio recordings. This means that if your dash cam records audio inside the vehicle, all parties being recorded must give their consent. If you do not have consent from every passenger, you should disable the audio recording feature to avoid violating state wiretap laws. Failing to comply can lead to legal complications, and any footage obtained without proper consent may not be admissible in court.
Admissibility in Court:
Dash cam footage that complies with these laws—properly mounted and with audio consent—can be used as evidence in personal injury and accident claims. However, if the footage reveals your own fault or partial fault, it could also be used against you during legal proceedings.
Impact of Distracted Driving Laws:
As of June 5, 2025, Pennsylvania’s new distracted driving law (Paul Miller’s Law) prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices while driving, including for video recording or transmitting. However, this law targets handheld use, not devices that are mounted and operated hands-free. If you interact with your dash cam in a way that distracts you or requires you to hold it while driving, you could be cited under the new law.
Dash cams are legal if they do not block your view or distract you.
Audio recording requires the consent of all recorded parties.
Hands-free operation is key to staying compliant with distracted driving laws. Properly obtained footage can be used in court, but may also reveal your own liability.
Always ensure your dash cam is installed and used in accordance with Pennsylvania law to avoid legal issues and ensure any footage you capture is admissible and useful.
Sources
[1] https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
[2] https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[3] https://natlawreview.com/article/how-new-pennsylvania-distracted-driving-law-affects-drivers-starting-june-2025
[4] https://www.cnslicensing.com/licensing/stricter-pa-driver-handheld-device-ban-takes-effect-june-2025/
[5] https://berks.crimewatchpa.com/wyomissingpd/119038/post/pennsylvanias-distracted-driving-law-june-5-2025
