Where to place a dashcam on the windscreen
Sit in the normal driving position and find a high central area that does not block your view. Behind the rear-view mirror is often discreet, but leave access to buttons and the memory card.
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Guide
Where to Place a Dashcam on Your Windscreen
Place the camera high on the windscreen, commonly behind or close to the rear-view mirror, provided the lens has a clear view and the unit does not intrude into the driver's critical field of vision.
Keep within UK visibility rules
Do not let the camera or mount materially obscure the swept area or critical view. MOT guidance distinguishes the area directly ahead of the driver from the wider swept windscreen, so minimise intrusion.
Check the lens view before sticking the mount
Power the camera and preview the frame. Include useful road context without filling the image with dashboard or sky, and ensure wipers clear the lens area.
Avoid sensors, tint bands and heating elements
Consult the vehicle manual before covering a sensor housing or special windscreen zone. Keep adhesive on a suitable clean surface and allow for removal.
Route the cable away from airbags
Follow the trim path recommended by the camera and vehicle manufacturers. Never run a cable across an airbag deployment route or leave it loose near controls.
Position a rear camera deliberately
Centre it where practical, confirm the wiper clears its view and test the hatch through its full movement before fixing the cable.
Common questions
Questions before you buy
Where to place dashcam on windscreen?
High and near the centre is usually effective, often behind the mirror, as long as the driver's view remains clear and the lens looks through a wiped area.
Can a dash cam go behind the rear-view mirror?
Yes, if the camera fits, remains operable and does not interfere with mirror sensors or the driver's view.
Should a dash cam be on the left or right?
Choose the side that keeps the body and cable least intrusive while preserving a centred road view. The exact answer depends on the camera shape and vehicle.
Can a dash cam fail an MOT?
A device that significantly obstructs the required view can be a defect. Keep the mount and camera out of the critical viewing area.
Sources and how we chose
- GOV.UK, MOT inspection manual for cars · 2026-10-15
- Nextbase fitting guidance · 2026-10-15
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