IrelandIs it legal to use a dashcam in Ireland?
Yes, it is legal to use a dashcam in Ireland, but you must comply with data protection law and avoid obstructing your view while driving.
What the Law Says
The Road Traffic Act 1961 does not prohibit dashcams, but it regulates driver visibility — which affects where and how a dashcam may be mounted. Data protection law (not included in the provided statutes) also applies to recording personal data of others.
There is no specific law banning dashcams in Ireland. The Road Traffic Act 1961 — the main legislation governing road use — does not mention dashcams at all.
However, section 18 of the Act requires that a driver must have a clear, unobstructed view of the road ahead. This means any dashcam mount must not block your line of sight or interfere with safe driving.
While not covered by the cited statute, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018 apply when recording video that captures people, vehicles, or licence plates in public spaces. You must ensure lawful basis for processing, consider signage, and limit retention.
Statutory Text— Road Traffic Act 1961 s. 18 — Driver's view of road
What to Do
Mount the dashcam so it does not obstruct your view of the road (per Road Traffic Act 1961 s.18)
Ensure recordings do not unlawfully process personal data — e.g., blur faces or licence plates if sharing footage publicly
Retain footage only as long as necessary (e.g., delete unneeded clips within days unless needed for insurance or legal purposes)
Display a visible privacy notice inside the vehicle if recording continuously in public areas (recommended under GDPR guidance)
Sources
Same Question, Other Jurisdictions
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European UnionNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.