There is no denying that having driver-assist features such as a backup camera makes your car significantly easier to drive. Withal, in the case of rearview cameras, these could give you a significant edge during a driving test. Every bit a result, the question remains, are they legal to apply during a driving test?

Every bit yous'd imagine, this isn't a simple case of yep or no. This comes down to the simple fact that various states across the U.S. accept dissimilar stances on the result. Nevertheless, as new vehicles offer even 360-degree systems, having a newer car has some serious advantages.

Is using a backup photographic camera illegal?

An image of a screen showing a backup camera.
Backup Camera | THE DENVER Mail/ ANDY CROSS

In short, it depends. If you're going to take a driving test soon, y'all'll desire to look at your local laws before your examination date. According to WFMY News 2, you cant utilise a fill-in camera during your driving test in the state of Massachusetts. Furthermore, yous deceit utilize a machine that has one equipped to accept your test. Since well-nigh brand-new vehicles come with these as standard, you'd need an older vehicle for the test.

On the other paw, some states volition allow y'all to utilise a auto that has a backup camera as long as information technology'south covered up or ignored. Yet, it is worth noting that these laws modify every bit the motorcar industry shifts to comprehend these driver-assist systems.

In the all-time-example scenario, you've got a land like Texas. According to Regime Technology, the land of Texas will allow you to utilize your car'south backup camera if it has one equipped. Additionally, you can even utilize your motorcar'southward proximity sensors too. In brusque, anything your car has every bit standard equipment is off-white game during a driving exam.

Regardless, information technology is worth reiterating that your local laws may vary.

What near other systems?

An image of a physical backup camera on a car.
Backup Photographic camera | Getty Images

RELATED: A Backup Photographic camera Doesn't Automatically Improve Safety


As mentioned earlier, modern cars have more than merely a clever backup camera. Yet, systems such as proximity sensors are far rarer than cameras. This is because these sensors are often sold as optional extras, not standard equipment. Every bit you might imagine, this creates a double-edged sword scenario. Since these systems are rarer, there aren't clear laws banning them similar there are for cameras. As a result, your land might permit you to utilize them.

During most of your driving test, your backup photographic camera won't even play a major role. Notwithstanding, lane-keep assist systems might. Since most of these commuter-assistance features work in the background, at that place are much harder to spot than a camera. Additionally, about of these systems include bling-sport monitoring, which drivers can't just turn off either. In short, having these systems gives test-takers a considerable edge.

This is one system you cannot apply in all states

An image of a screen showing a backup camera.
Backup Photographic camera | Getty Images

If your machine has an advanced backup camera and sensor system, chances are it will offering the ability to parallel park automatically. As you might imagine, this is a system that tin't be used nether whatever circumstances.

In example you're thinking of using this system sneakily, information technology is worth noting that information technology beeps loudly as the automobile looks for the empty spot. You might even get a warning on the dash telling yous to release the wheel. As a result, you'll want to go those parallel parking skills ironed out before you take the test.