Dashcams and UK GDPR – what do employers need to know?

The Data (Use and Access) Act came into law on 19 June 2025 which means that businesses who use dashboard cameras – or dashcams – and other in-vehicle cameras need to be sure they are following the correct legal procedure. The use of these cameras can have cost and security benefits for businesses and help to reduce insurance premiums, providing protection for drivers.

You can use a camera in your business vehicle, as long tell people you’re recording them, handle the footage responsibly, and check your data protection fee payments are up-to-date.

It’s the employer’s responsibility to weigh up the business benefits of using cameras against people’s right to privacy in their daily lives. Installing dashcams or in-vehicle cameras without following the rules can result in complaints to the Information Commissioner and a fine.

If business vehicles are used for personal journeys, the cameras should be switched off during non-working hours. This also applies if you install a camera in an employee’s personal vehicle that they’re using for your business journeys.

If you’re collecting, using or sharing data that can identify someone, this is their personal data and employers must keep it safe. It is important to consider password protection and limiting access to systems only to the people who need to see it.

Furthermore, the footage must only be retained for as long as is reasonable and then deleted. Most businesses who use Dashcams record the road ahead in case there’s an accident. If there hasn’t been an accident, then it should be deleted after a week or so.

If you do use Dashcams, then you will have to register and pay a data protection fee to the ICO. Most small businesses pay £52 per year.

If you require any advice or support on this subject, please contact 121 HR Solutions on 0800 9995 121.

Dashcams and UK GDPR – what do employers need to know?

121 HR Solutions Ltd