It’s estimated that around a quarter of the UK’s drivers have a dash cam fitted in their vehicle. Millions of us have these security devices installed for that added peace of mind of knowing you have video evidence in the event of an incident or insurance claim. However, if you’re planning a motorhome or campervan trip to Portugal this summer, you may want to leave your dash cam at home or you could be hit by a huge fine, as Portugal has warned tourists that dash cams are illegal in the country.
What are the rules around Dash Cams in Portugal?
Portugal has one of Europe’s strictest policies regarding the use of dash cams, not only is using a dash cam illegal but just the possession of a dash cam even when switched off can result in legal proceedings and hefty fines up to €25,000 in some cases!
Car manufacturer Skoda has warned that in Portugal “You can expect the police to give you a hard time even if they find a dashcam on a seat in your car, in the glove compartment or in the boot.”
Why are Dash Cams illegal in Portugal?
Portugal has strict data protection and privacy laws, and as dash cams continuously record public roads, vehicles, and bystanders without consent, they are considered a breach of the Portuguese general data protection regulation which states “cameras may not be located: a) on public roads, neighbouring properties or other places that are not the exclusive domain of the person responsible, except where strictly necessary to cover access to the property”.
Other countries with similar Dash Cam Rules
Dash cam laws vary across Europe, while some countries straight up ban the use of dash cams, in other countries dash cams can be used with limitations or under certain conditions. It’s important to do your own research before travelling to ensure you have the most reliable and up to date information.
Countries where Dash Cams are Illegal
Along with Portugal the following countries also have strict bans on dash cam usage:
🇦🇹 Austria: It is illegal to own or use a dash cam in Austria.
🇱🇺 Luxembourg: Owning a dash cam is legal, however using it in a vehicle is prohibited.
🇨🇭 Switzerland: Swiss data privacy laws require that any individuals captured in footage need to know that they are being recorded and provide consent, due to this dash cams generally are not compliant with the law.
An overview of countries where Dash Cams are legal but with restrictions:
🇫🇷 France: Dash cams should be used for private use only. Footage can be used as evidence in legal matters and insurance claims.
🇩🇪 Germany: In Germany you are unable to permanently record on your dash cam, videos must be taken in short clips and must not be kept without suitable reason. For these reasons you should use a dash cam with a loop function and g-sensor. If you want to publicly share footage you must ensure that faces and license plates are blurred.
🇧🇪 Belgium: Dash cams can only be used for private use. If you are in an accident in Belgium you must make it clear to the other party that you have a dash cam and that you intend to use the footage as evidence.
🇬🇷 Greece: Dash cams can be used for private use only. If footage is used as evidence in court any identifiable information must be blurred.
🇭🇺 Hungary: Dash cams are allowed for personal use only, however the footage must meet low resolution and frame rate requirements.
Sources:
https://www.theportugalnews.com/news/2025-05-12/portugal-dash-cam-warning/97574
https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/en/2024/04/09/cctv-dashcams-and-videophones-the-do-s-and-don-ts/
