Dash cams are legal in Hawaii for personal and commercial vehicles, offering valuable evidence for accidents and insurance claims. Strict mounting rules under HRS § 291-31.5 prevent obstructions, with size limits and placement zones ensuring driver visibility.
Mounting Requirements
Devices must fit in windshield corners: a 5-inch square nearest the driver or 7-inch square farthest, or on the dashboard/rear window without blocking views. Exceeding these or obstructing sightlines risks citations for equipment violations. Suction mounts are common for compliance.
Audio Recording Rules
Hawaii follows single-party consent for audio under HRS § 803-42, allowing recording if the driver consents—no need for others’ permission. Notify passengers ethically, especially for private conversations, to avoid disputes. Video in public roads remains unrestricted.
Prohibited Practices
Dash cams cannot display screens visible to drivers while moving, per distraction laws. Tampering with footage post-accident is illegal and inadmissible in court. Commercial fleets must align with FMCSA if interstate.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Improper mounting yields fines up to $200 as a traffic infraction under equipment statutes. Audio privacy breaches could lead to civil suits or misdemeanor charges if surreptitious. Repeat violations escalate to points on licenses.
Comparison with Neighboring States Table
| State | Windshield Zones | Audio Consent | Size Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | Top/bottom corners | Single-party | 5-7 sq in |
| California | Rearview area only | Two-party | None specified |
| Nationwide | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Hawaii’s rules emphasize non-obstruction.
Best Practices for Users
Choose compact cams (under 5 sq in) for corner mounts; test visibility before driving. Label vehicles with recording notices; disable audio if sharing rides. Hawaii’s 2025 initiative distributes cams for road safety data, encouraging compliant use.
SOURCES :
- https://www.freightwaves.com/checkpoint/dash-cam-laws-by-state/
- https://www.expertmarket.com/dash-cams/dash-cam-laws-by-state
