Yes, dashcams are legal in Turkey, but their use is tightly controlled under data protection and traffic regulations. The Personal Data Protection Authority (KVKK) and the General Directorate of Security (EGM) impose strict rules on recording, storage, and consent, particularly for third-party footage. Failure to comply risks fines up to 1.5 million Turkish Lira under KVKK’s 2026 enforcement guidelines.
Key Regulations for Dashcams in Turkey
- Data Protection Compliance: Dashcam footage containing identifiable individuals must adhere to the KVKK Law No. 6698, requiring explicit consent for processing unless justified by public interest or legal obligation. Unauthorized sharing of recordings, even in accidents, may trigger penalties.
- Traffic Safety Restrictions: The EGM prohibits dashcams from obstructing the driver’s view or interfering with vehicle controls. Mounting must not obstruct airbags or mirrors, and recordings cannot be used to contest traffic violations unless submitted as evidence to authorities.
- Storage and Retention Limits: Footage must be deleted within 30 days unless required for legal proceedings. Continuous recording without a legitimate purpose (e.g., professional use) may be deemed excessive under KVKK’s proportionality principle.