Dash cams are small video cameras you can install in cars. Many drivers in New Hampshire use them to record trips, protect themselves in accidents, and catch bad driving. But New Hampshire has rules about where and how you can use dash cams. This article explains those rules simply.
Dashboard Mounting and Windshield Rules
In New Hampshire, you cannot mount a dash cam on your front windshield. The law (RSA 265:95 III(b)) says nothing non-transparent should block your clear view through the windshield. Instead, your dash cam should be fixed on the dashboard. The camera’s screen must also be visible to the driver.
Rear and Interior Cameras
You are allowed to install rear-facing and interior-facing cameras. Just make sure they do not block your view out of any other window.
Audio Recording and Passenger Consent
New Hampshire is an all-party consent state. This means if your dash cam records sound, everyone inside the car must agree to being recorded. To follow the law, you can put a sticker on the window, leave a written note, or tell passengers before you start driving.
Court Use and Evidence
Dash cam footage is allowed in New Hampshire courts, as long as it follows the law and is relevant to the case. It can help determine fault in accidents, especially since New Hampshire uses modified comparative negligence—meaning you can win damages if you are less than 51% to blame. But don’t delete or hide any evidence—that can cause legal trouble.
Why These Rules Matter
These regulations exist to keep the driver’s view clear and protect everyone’s privacy. A blocked windshield distracts drivers. And secretly recording someone’s voice without permission can lead to legal issues. Following these rules helps prevent accidents and protects you in legal cases.
In New Hampshire, you can use dash cams, but with important restrictions:
Mount only on the dashboard; windshield mounting is banned.
Make sure the screen is visible to the driver.
Inform everyone if you record audio—all must consent.
Keep any footage safe and unaltered for legal admissibility.
By following these guidelines, you stay within the law and make your dash cam useful and safe.
