Dash cams are legal to use in Minnesota, but state law sets specific requirements for how they can be installed and what kind of recording is permitted. To comply with Minnesota regulations, dash cams must be mounted directly behind, slightly above, or slightly below the vehicle’s rearview mirror. The main reason for this restriction is to ensure that the device does not obstruct the driver’s view; mounting your dash cam on the dashboard or in a way that blocks your line of sight is prohibited, and improper placement could result in a traffic violation or fine. Proper mounting is also important if you intend to use footage in court, as evidence from a dash cam that was illegally installed (e.g., blocking your view) may be inadmissible.
Minnesota adheres to a one-party consent rule for audio recording, which means you, as the driver (and a party to the conversation), can legally record what’s happening inside your car without explicit consent from passengers. However, while this is legal, it’s considered a good practice—especially for rideshare or commercial drivers—to inform passengers that recording is in progress, often by displaying a visible sign. This not only complies with privacy expectations but also helps avoid disputes.
When it comes to video, recording on public roads and in public spaces is generally not restricted. However, you should avoid recording audio or video in situations or locations where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as on private property, driveways, or private parking lots, unless you have additional consent. For commercial vehicles, employers are expected to inform employees about any dash cams installed, and have clear policies for handling, storing, and sharing dash cam footage, in line with privacy considerations.
Minnesota law permits you to record traffic stops or interactions with law enforcement using your dash cam, as long as the device is legally installed and does not interfere with the officer’s duties. In fact, courts may accept dash cam footage as evidence if it is captured in compliance with the relevant state laws.
You can legally install and use a dash cam in Minnesota as long as it is placed behind, above, or below the rearview mirror and does not block your view of the road. Audio recording is legal under one-party consent, but informing passengers remains best practice. Footage can be used as evidence if obtained legally, and dash cams are permitted both for private motorists and in commercial vehicles, subject to proper privacy disclosure and mounting requirements. Noncompliance with any of these regulations can incur penalties and undermine the legal usefulness of your dash cam recordings.
Sources
[1] https://www.knowyourrights.com/blog/how-dashcams-can-help-in-a-car-accident/
[2] https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/
[3] https://facit.ai/insights/dash-cam-laws-by-state
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/lyftdrivers/comments/hx5pir/dash_camera_rules_in_mn/
[5] https://www.gpsinsight.com/blog/are-dash-cameras-legal-in-commercial-vehicles/
