In recent years, dashboard cameras—or dash cams—have become increasingly popular among drivers in Arizona. With affordable models available and the growing need to protect yourself legally on the road, many drivers are choosing to install these small cameras in their vehicles.
But are dash cams legal in Arizona? And if so, how should they be used? This simple guide explains everything you need to know to stay safe, legal, and prepared in case of an accident.
Are Dash Cams Legal in Arizona?
Yes, dash cams are legal in Arizona. There are no state laws that ban regular drivers from installing or using dash cams in their cars. You can freely record what happens on the road and even inside your vehicle, which can be very helpful if you’re ever in an accident or legal dispute.
However, Arizona does have rules about where you can place a dash cam on your windshield. This is to make sure it doesn’t block your view while driving. So, while dash cams are allowed, you must install them in a way that follows these visibility rules.
Windshield Obstruction Laws in Arizona
According to Arizona Revised Statute 28-959.01, your dash cam must not block your view of the road. You are only allowed to attach items (like dash cams or GPS devices) in two specific areas of the windshield:
One is a 7-inch square on the lower passenger side corner (furthest from the driver)
The other is a 5-inch square on the lower driver side corner (closest to the driver)
Putting a dash cam outside of these areas could get you a traffic ticket and may even lead to legal problems if your view was blocked during an accident.
If it’s found that your dash cam caused a visual obstruction that contributed to an accident, you could be seen as partially or fully at fault, even if the crash wasn’t entirely your fault otherwise.
Should You Use a Dash Cam in Arizona?
Installing a dash cam has both benefits and risks, so it’s important to understand both before deciding.
Benefits of Dash Cams
Dash cams provide a clear video record of events, which can be helpful in many situations:
They can show if another driver ran a red light, made a dangerous lane change, or caused a collision.
You can use dash cam footage as proof in court or with your insurance company.
For commercial drivers, like Uber, Lyft, or truck drivers, dash cams can offer protection in the event of false claims, theft, or assaults.
Interior-facing dash cams can help with rideshare incidents, where video can prove your innocence in disputes with passengers.
In all these cases, dash cams act as an unbiased witness, which can help resolve issues faster and more fairly.
Risks of Dash Cams
While dash cams can help you, they can also work against you if you’re at fault in a crash:
Your dash cam records everything—including any mistakes you make on the road.
If your footage shows you were speeding or distracted, it could be used against you.
You can’t delete or hide footage if it shows you were at fault. Doing so could lead to criminal charges for destroying evidence.
If you’re in a serious crash, the other driver’s lawyer might get a subpoena (a legal order) for your dash cam video. You must follow this order and provide the footage if asked.
Best Practices for Dash Cam Use in Arizona
If you plan to install a dash cam in your car, follow these simple tips:
Mount it only in approved windshield areas (5-inch or 7-inch square zones)
Check your camera regularly to make sure it’s recording properly
Save important footage and back it up, especially if you’re in an accident
Don’t tamper with or delete footage—it may be needed as legal evidence
Use dash cams responsibly, knowing they record both your good and bad driving moments
Arizona drivers are free to use dash cams for added safety and legal protection. As long as your device is properly mounted and doesn’t block your view, you’re following the law.
Dash cams can be a powerful tool to prove your innocence and protect you from false claims, especially after a crash or unexpected incident.
Just remember that dash cams record everything—including your own actions—so it’s important to drive responsibly. By using a dash cam the right way, you can improve your safety on the road and feel more secure in your travels.
