Can I Use My Dash Cam in Europe?

If you're planning a trip to Europe, it is worth checking to see if you are able to use your dash cam while driving in European countries as you may be hit by a hefty fine.

For many drivers, a dash cam has become a necessity for peace of mind that you’re sufficiently covered should you run into trouble - plus the cheaper insurance premiums are a bonus. But if you’re planning on taking a trip to Europe - for business or pleasure - you need to make sure you’re clued up on whether you’re allowed to use one or not, as the consequences of being caught can outweigh the benefits.

Some European countries do not allow the use of dash cams as it breaches various laws related to privacy and data protection. So to make sure you’re adequately prepared, we’ve created this simple guide to what countries you can use a dash cam in:

Country Legal to own? Legal to use? Potential Penalties Requirements
Austria No No €10,000 fine (€25,000 for repeat offenders -
Belgium Yes Yes - - Private use only
- Can be used as evidence but parties must be informed
Bosnia-Herzegovina Yes Yes - -
Denmark Yes Yes -

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France Yes Yes - - Cannot obscure driver's view
- Private use only cannot upload to internet
Germany Yes Yes - - Cannot obscure driver's view
- Can use footage for insurance purposes
- Should not record people's faces, number plates
Italy Yes Yes -

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Luxembourg Yes No -

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Malta Yes Yes -

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Netherlands Yes Yes -

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Norway Yes Yes -

- Cannot obscure driver's view

Portugal No No -

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Serbia  Yes Yes -

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Spain Yes Yes -

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Sweden Yes Yes -

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Switzerland Yes Yes - - Legal to use but is strongly discouraged
- May contravene data protection rights
UK Yes Yes - - Cannot obscure driver's view
- Cannot show footage/view of road while driving

 Find Snooper sat navs and driving assistance technology directly from the manufacturer by clicking here