Are Dashcams Legal in Germany? Full Explanation 2025
If you drive in Germany and consider installing a dashcam, you should understand the country’s specific legal situation. Germany has strict privacy laws, and dashcams fall under these regulations.
Are Dashcams Allowed in Germany?
Yes, dashcams are allowed for private use while driving in Germany. However, certain rules apply:
- You are allowed to record while driving.
- You are not allowed to store the recordings for unlimited time without a reason.
- Permanent surveillance of public traffic is not allowed.
- You may only store recordings if an incident happens (for example, an accident or dangerous driving).
Can Dashcam Footage Be Used in Court?
Yes, but with conditions:
- In 2018, Germany’s Federal Court ruled that dashcam footage may be used as evidence in court.
- The court allows recordings as evidence, but mass surveillance remains forbidden.
- The footage must not violate the privacy of others unnecessarily.
- Courts will evaluate how the video was recorded before accepting it.
Publishing Dashcam Videos
You must be extremely careful with publishing dashcam footage publicly (for example, YouTube or social media):
- Faces and license plates should be blurred.
- You need consent if people are identifiable.
- Publishing without proper editing can lead to fines under GDPR.
GDPR & Data Protection
Under GDPR law:
- People have a right to control how their personal data (such as their license plate or face) is processed.
- Dashcams must not collect data without a valid legal reason.
Best Practices for Dashcam Use in Germany
- Use loop recording (old footage is automatically deleted if nothing happens).
- Only save relevant incidents.
- Keep footage private unless needed for legal reasons.
- Blur footage if you plan to publish.
- Inform passengers that a dashcam is recording.
Summary
- ✅ Dashcams are legal for private use while driving.
- ✅ Use loop recording and limit storage.
- ✅ Do not publish footage without permission.
- ✅ Dashcam recordings may be used in court under strict rules.
Always stay updated, as data protection rules may change.