Thinking about installing a dash cam in your vehicle in Hawaii? Dash cams are popular for added security and evidence in case of accidents, but Hawaii has specific rules about how and where they can be used. Here’s what you need to know to stay legal and safe on the islands in 2025.
Dash Cam Regulations in Hawaii
Legality of Dash Cams
- Dash cams are legal in Hawaii for both personal and commercial vehicles.
Mounting Requirements
- Windshield Placement: Dash cams must be mounted in the top or bottom corners of the windshield.
- Size Limit: The device cannot exceed five square inches in size.
- Obstruction: The dash cam must not obstruct the driver’s view of the road. Improper placement can result in a citation.
- Best Practice: Always double-check that your dash cam is within the legal size and placed in a corner so it doesn’t block your vision.
Audio Recording Laws
- Single-Party Consent: Hawaii is a single-party consent state for audio recordings, meaning you can record as long as one party (such as yourself) is aware of and consents to the recording.
- Passenger Notification: It’s a good idea to inform passengers if your dash cam records audio, especially if you plan to use the recordings for any official purpose.
Installation Tips
- Avoid Airbags: Never install your dash cam where it could interfere with airbags.
- Secure Wiring: Make sure wires are tucked away and don’t interfere with driving controls.
- Clear View: Test your dash cam after installation to ensure it captures the road without blocking your view.
Summary Table
| Regulation Area | Hawaii Requirement |
|---|---|
| Legality | Legal |
| Windshield Mounting | Top/bottom corners only, ≤ 5 sq in. |
| Obstruction | Must not block driver’s view |
| Audio Recording | Single-party consent |
Dash cams are perfectly legal in Hawaii as long as they’re mounted in the correct spot, don’t exceed five square inches, and don’t block your view. Audio is generally fine to record if at least one person in the car knows about it. Follow these rules to enjoy the benefits of your dash cam without any legal headaches!
Sources:
- https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Hawaii/comments/8rmxgp/dashcam_in_hi/
- https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
- https://www.blackboxmycar.com/pages/are-dash-cams-legal-in-my-area-dash-cam-laws-in-every-us-state