Legality of Dash Cams
- Dash cams are legal to use in Idaho, but their installation and use are subject to specific regulations regarding placement and privacy.
Mounting and Placement Requirements
- Idaho law prohibits placing any non-transparent material-including dash cams-on the windshield, side wings, or side/rear windows if it obstructs the driver’s clear view of the highway.
- The safest and most compliant location for a dash cam in Idaho is on the dashboard, where it does not block the driver’s line of sight.
- Mounting a dash cam directly on the windshield is generally not allowed, unless it is positioned so that it does not obstruct the driver’s view at all (such as directly behind the rearview mirror and out of sight). However, dashboard mounting is the recommended and risk-free approach.
Relevant Law
- Idaho Code 49-943(1) states:”No person shall drive any motor vehicle with any sign, poster, or other nontransparent material upon the front windshield, side wings, or side or rear windows of the vehicle which obstructs the driver’s clear view of the highway or any intersecting highway.”
Audio and Privacy Considerations
- Video recording in public spaces (like roads) is generally permissible.
- For audio recording, Idaho is a one-party consent state, meaning you can record conversations as long as one participant consents (which can be the driver themselves). However, it is best practice to inform passengers that audio recording may occur to avoid any privacy disputes.
Admissibility in Court
- Dash cam footage is generally admissible in court if it is obtained legally and the device was installed in compliance with Idaho’s laws.
Idaho Dash Cam Rules
| Regulation Area | Idaho Requirement |
|---|---|
| Legality | Legal, with restrictions |
| Mounting Location | Dashboard recommended; must not obstruct driver’s view if on windshield |
| Windshield Mounting | Not allowed if it blocks view; behind rearview mirror may be tolerated |
| Audio Recording | One-party consent required |
| Court Admissibility | Footage admissible if legally obtained and properly mounted |
Key Takeaways
- Do not mount dash cams on the windshield unless it is completely out of the driver’s line of sight (such as behind the rearview mirror), but dashboard mounting is safest.
- Never let a dash cam obstruct your view of the road; improper placement can result in fines or footage being inadmissible in court.
- Obtain consent for audio recording or at least inform passengers to comply with privacy laws.
By following these guidelines, you can use a dash cam in Idaho both legally and effectively.
Sources:
- https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
- https://litsterfrost.com/blog/dashcam-dilemma-the-pros-and-cons-in-car-accident-claims/
- https://gpstrackit.com/blog/what-are-the-dashcam-regulations-in-each-state/
- https://facit.ai/insights/dash-cam-laws-by-state
- https://matrackinc.com/dash-cam-laws-by-states/
