Taking Your Vehicle Abroad? Know The Dash Cam Laws First.

Planning a road trip across Europe can be one of the most exciting ways to explore new destinations. The open road, scenic routes, and the freedom to stop wherever the mood strikes make driving holidays a favourite for many travellers. But before setting off with a dash cam, it’s important to understand that not every country welcomes these devices.

While dash cams are popular in the UK for their added security and speed camera alerts, many European countries have much stricter regulations. Ignoring these rules could result in heavy fines or even having the device confiscated.

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Our Guide to Using Your Dash Camera Abroad: Key Dash Cam Restrictions Across Europe

France:

Speed camera warning devices are strictly prohibited. Although navigation apps like Google Maps automatically disable these alerts, dash cams often require manual adjustment. Make sure to turn off any speed camera notifications before driving in France.

Spain:

Dash cams are generally legal in Spain, but there are important rules around how footage is used.

Spain has strict data protection laws. While recording for personal use is typically allowed, you:

• Cannot publish footage (e.g. on social media) without blurring faces and number plates

• Must not record in a way that infringes on others’ privacy

• Should avoid pointing cameras unnecessarily toward private property

Using footage for insurance or evidence purposes is usually acceptable, but public sharing can lead to penalties if privacy laws are breached.

Germany:

In Germany, dash cams are not outright illegal, but the rules are nuanced.

Continuous recording may violate privacy laws. However, short, event-based recordings (such as footage automatically saved during an incident) have been deemed admissible in court in certain cases.

If you’re driving in Germany, it’s wise to use a device that records on a loop and only permanently saves footage when triggered by an impact or manual activation.

Italy:

Italy is generally more relaxed about dash cam use for personal purposes. However, like Spain and Germany, privacy laws apply — particularly when sharing footage publicly.

If you plan to upload clips online, ensure identifying details such as faces and registration plates are obscured.

Portugal:

The rules here are strict and dash cams are generally considered illegal. In many cases, they are not permitted in vehicles at all—even if switched off or disconnected. Travellers should avoid bringing them altogether to prevent potential issues with local authorities.

Austria and Luxembourg:

Both countries have stringent privacy laws. Recording with a dash cam can be seen as a violation of personal data protection, leading to significant fines. Even short recordings or footage used for personal safety can fall foul of these regulations.

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A Quick Check Before You Go

Before boarding the ferry or driving through the Channel Tunnel, take a few minutes to research the specific dash cam laws for each country you will be travelling through. Searching online for “Dash cam laws in [Enter Your Destination]” can provide up-to-date information and help avoid unnecessary trouble.

A simple five-minute check could save a holiday from unexpected fines or legal complications.

Dash cams can be incredibly useful tools for safety and accountability on the road, but when travelling abroad, local laws always take priority. Understanding the rules before setting off ensures a smoother, stress-free journey—so the focus stays on enjoying the adventure ahead.

Safe travels!