Where to Mount a Dash Cam: Placement Guide

Where you place a dash cam affects how clear your footage is, whether it blocks your view, and even whether it is legal where you drive. Getting the position right takes only a few minutes and makes the camera far more useful. This guide covers the best spots and the trade-offs, and you can find cameras and mounts in our dash cams section.

Where is the best place to mount a dash cam?

The ideal spot is high on the windshield, centered behind or near the rearview mirror. This gives the camera a wide, central view of the road and keeps the unit out of your line of sight. Aim for these goals:

• Mount it behind the rearview mirror so the camera body is hidden from the driver but the lens still sees the road.
• Keep it within the area swept by your windshield wipers so rain does not blur the view.
• Position the lens so the horizon sits roughly in the middle of the frame, capturing both the road and traffic lights.
• Avoid placing it where it covers any sensors or cameras built into the windshield.

Is the placement legal?

Rules about windshield-mounted devices vary by country, state, and region. Some places restrict how much of the windshield can be obstructed, and a few require devices to be mounted in specific zones or on the dashboard instead. Before you commit to a spot, check your local regulations on windshield obstructions. Mounting high and central, tucked behind the mirror, usually keeps the obstruction minimal, but local law takes priority over any general advice.

Suction cup or adhesive mount?

Most dash cams come with one of two mount types, and each has clear pros and cons:

1. Suction cup mounts are easy to install, reposition, and remove, which is handy if you move the camera between cars or want to take it out of sight. The downside is that suction can weaken over time or loosen in extreme heat, so they may need reseating.
2. Adhesive mounts use a strong sticky pad that holds the camera very securely and stays put in hot weather. They are more permanent, since removing the pad can be fiddly and may leave residue, so place them carefully the first time.

If you want a set-and-forget install, adhesive is more stable. If you value flexibility, a suction mount is more forgiving.

Where to put a rear dash cam?

A rear camera should look straight out the back to capture tailgaters and rear collisions. Common placements include high on the rear windshield, near the center, similar to the front camera, or on the upper rear glass just below the brake light. Keep these points in mind:

• Mount it within any rear defroster area so the glass stays clear in cold weather.
• Route the connecting cable neatly along the headliner and door pillars, tucking it out of view and away from airbags.
• If your car has heavy rear window tint, expect somewhat darker night footage.

Once you know your placement plan, you can compare cameras, mount styles, prices, and buyer reviews on Amazon. Ready to choose? See our guide to dash cams.