New legislation takes effect in July
On 22 April 2026, Cyprus published the Road Safety (Amendment) Law of 2026 (N.103(I)/2026) in the Official Gazette of the Republic, introducing a legal framework for the installation and use of image-recording devices in vehicles.
The new dashcam law will come into force on 23 July 2026 and will allow the use of electronic image-recording devices in private motor vehicles, privately or publicly operated vehicles used for professional purposes, government vehicles, and vehicles belonging to the wider public sector.
Purposes for using dashcams
Under the dashcam law, image-recording devices may be used for specific purposes, including:
- Protecting drivers in the event of an accident.
- Documenting traffic code violations, road accidents and criminal acts.
- Providing evidence to the Police for investigations into traffic offences and accidents.
- Monitoring professional vehicle fleets in cases involving criminal activity or accidents.
The legislation aims to provide greater clarity regarding the lawful use of dashboard cameras while supporting road safety and investigations.
Personal data safeguards
The law states that the use of image-recording devices and any footage they produce must comply with personal data protection requirements.
Failure to comply may result in administrative fines or other penalties under legislation governing the protection of personal data.
Particular importance is given to provisions allowing the Police and insurance companies to collect and use recorded footage for investigating traffic offences, accidents and criminal acts.
However, the public reproduction, publication or sharing of recordings that contain identifiable individuals or personal information is prohibited without their consent. In cases involving minors, consent must be obtained from parents or legal guardians.
Court decides evidential value
The legislation also clarifies that footage recorded by an image-recording device will not automatically constitute evidence in court proceedings.
Instead, it will remain the responsibility of the court to determine whether any recording can be admitted as evidence and the weight it should be given in relation to the events depicted.
Data Protection Commissioner to issue guidance
Under the same legislation, the Data Protection Commissioner will issue guidance regarding the collection and processing of personal data, as well as the permitted use of electronic image-recording devices.
The guidance is expected to help vehicle owners, businesses and public authorities comply with the new legal requirements once the law takes effect.
Also read: Mandatory vehicle removal after crashes: What changes?
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