Are Radar Detectors Legal in Pennsylvania? What You Need to Know Before Using One

Radar detectors are legal for use in private vehicles in Pennsylvania, but there are important restrictions you should be aware of before using one.

Legality of Radar Detectors in Pennsylvania

Private Vehicles: Radar detectors are permitted in cars, motorcycles, and other personal vehicles.

Commercial Vehicles: Federal law prohibits the use of radar detectors in commercial vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds anywhere in the United States, including Pennsylvania.

Laser Jammers: Unlike some states, Pennsylvania currently allows the use of laser jammers as well, but you should check for any local ordinances or recent law changes before relying on one.

Mounting Restrictions

Windshield Mounting: Pennsylvania law prohibits mounting any device on the windshield if it obstructs the driver’s view. This means you cannot mount your radar detector on the windshield. Instead, you should install it on the dashboard or another location that does not block your line of sight.

Obstruction Penalty: If your radar detector is mounted in a way that obstructs your view, you could be ticketed for a separate violation, regardless of the legality of the device itself.

Key Points to Remember

Use in Private Vehicles: Legal, as long as you follow mounting restrictions.

Use in Commercial Vehicles (over 10,000 lbs): Illegal nationwide.

Windshield Mounting: Not allowed if it obstructs your view.

Laser Jammers: Legal in Pennsylvania, but check for updates or local bans.

Summary Table

Vehicle Type	Radar Detector Legal?	Laser Jammer Legal?	Windshield Mounting Allowed?
Private Passenger Vehicle	Yes	Yes	No (if obstructs view)
Commercial Vehicle (>10K lbs)	No	—	—

Always ensure your radar detector is installed in a way that does not obstruct your view of the road. If you drive through other states, be aware that laws vary, especially in Virginia and Washington D.C., where radar detectors are illegal.

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