Dash cams are legal in South Carolina with specific mounting and visibility rules to ensure safe driving. They must attach to the dashboard, not the windshield or windows, and cannot obstruct the driver’s view under state vehicle code §56-5-3730. As a one-party consent state for recordings, drivers can capture audio and video without notifying passengers, making footage admissible in court for accidents or disputes.
Legal Permissions
South Carolina permits dash cam use for personal vehicles, commercial trucks, and rideshares, provided the device complies with obstruction laws. No state registration or notification is required, unlike some neighboring states; footage aids insurance claims and police investigations by documenting fault objectively. Federal DOT rules align for interstate trucking, emphasizing non-interference with controls.
Mounting Restrictions
State code bans nontransparent materials like dash cams on the front windshield, side wings, or rear windows if they block highway views (§56-5-3730). Dashboard mounts or rearview mirror clips are ideal; suction cups on glass risk tickets up to $100 for first offenses. New 2025 hands-free laws (§56-5-3890) indirectly apply if adjusting cams distracts, adding $100 fines and points for repeats.
Audio and Privacy Rules
South Carolina follows one-party consent under wiretapping laws (§17-30-20), allowing recording if the operator consents—no need for others’ permission in public spaces like roads. Privacy expectations are low in vehicles; footage from passengers or pursuits holds up in court but cannot target private property invasively. Subpoenas can compel sharing incriminating videos in civil or criminal cases.
Enforcement and Penalties
Troopers cite obstructions as misdemeanors with fines starting at $50-100, escalating with points on licenses for habitual violations. No specific dash cam bans exist, but careless driving charges (§56-5-1520) apply if cams contribute to accidents. Commercial fleets face FMCSA scrutiny for safety compliance.
Benefits vs. Risks Table
SOURCES:
- https://guslawsc.com/is-it-legal-to-use-a-dashcam-in-south-carolina/
- https://www.ddpai.com/blog/dash-cam-laws/
