If you’re driving through Texas in 2026 with anything mounted on your windshield or dashboard, you could be setting yourself up for a costly surprise. State troopers have begun cracking down on a little-known violation that’s suddenly generating hundreds of tickets: dashboard obstructions. From dash cams and phone mounts to fuzzy dice and air fresheners, anything that blocks your view could now result in a fine. Many drivers are learning the hard way that what seems harmless can be considered a safety hazard under Texas law. Here’s what you need to know before your next drive.
Texas Law Now Treats Windshield Obstructions More Seriously
Under Texas Transportation Code § 547.613, it’s illegal to place any object on or near the windshield that obstructs a driver’s clear view of the road. While this law isn’t new, enforcement has ramped up in 2026 following a statewide push to reduce distracted driving and improve visibility-related crash rates. State troopers are now issuing fines of $200 or more for violations, even for first-time offenders. The law applies to both commercial and personal vehicles, and it includes items like GPS units, dash cams, and decorative objects. If it’s in your line of sight, it’s a potential ticket.
Dash Cams Are Legal But Placement Matters
Texas drivers are increasingly using dash cams for protection against fraud and to document accidents. While dash cams themselves are legal, mounting them in the wrong spot can get you fined. Devices placed in the center of the windshield or directly in front of the driver are considered obstructions. The safest legal placement is in the lower right-hand corner of the windshield or behind the rearview mirror, where it doesn’t interfere with your view. Troopers say many drivers are unaware that their dash cam setup is technically a violation.
Hanging Items from Rearview Mirrors Are a Common Violation
That air freshener, rosary, or graduation tassel hanging from your mirror? It could cost you. Texas law treats any hanging object that impairs visibility as a potential hazard. While enforcement was once lax, troopers are now citing drivers for even small items if they’re deemed distracting or obstructive. It’s a subjective call, but if it’s dangling in your field of vision, it’s best to remove it.
Phone Mounts Are a Gray Area But Risky
Many drivers rely on dashboard or windshield-mounted phone holders for navigation. However, mounting your phone in a way that blocks your view can result in a fine. Texas law doesn’t ban phone mounts outright, but their placement must not interfere with your ability to see the road clearly. Troopers recommend using vent mounts or dashboard mounts positioned low and to the side. If your phone is mounted in the middle of your windshield, you’re likely in violation.
Temporary Permits and Paperwork Must Be Properly Displayed
Temporary registration tags, toll passes, and inspection stickers must be placed in designated areas. Improper placement, like taping them to the middle of your windshield, can be considered an obstruction. Troopers have reported an uptick in tickets issued for misplaced temporary permits, especially among drivers of newly purchased vehicles. Always follow the placement instructions provided by the DMV or dealership. A simple mistake could lead to a fine and a required re-inspection.
Commercial Drivers Face Stricter Scrutiny
Truckers and delivery drivers are especially vulnerable to dashboard obstruction fines. With multiple devices (GPS units, dash cams, tablets) mounted in the cab, it’s easy to run afoul of the law. The Texas Department of Public Safety has issued new guidance to commercial drivers, emphasizing clear sightlines and minimal dashboard clutter. Fines for commercial vehicles can be higher, and repeat violations may impact a driver’s CDL status. Companies are being urged to audit vehicle setups to avoid liability.
Decorative Items Are No Longer “Just for Fun”
Fuzzy dice, bobbleheads, and dashboard figurines might seem harmless, but they’re now under scrutiny. Troopers say these items can reflect sunlight, distract drivers, or block peripheral vision. In 2026, even non-electronic decorations are being cited if they’re deemed to interfere with safe driving. If it’s not essential, it’s best to remove it. The new enforcement push is about minimizing distractions and maximizing visibility.
Ignorance Won’t Get You Out of a Ticket
Many drivers argue they didn’t know the law or that their setup “hasn’t been a problem before.” Unfortunately, that defense won’t hold up. Troopers are trained to assess whether an object poses a visibility risk, and subjective judgment is enough to issue a citation. The best way to avoid a fine is to keep your dashboard and windshield as clear as possible. When in doubt, take it down.
Visibility Is Safety And Now It’s Enforced
Texas isn’t trying to ruin your road trip or take away your dash cam. But in 2026, the state is making it clear: if it blocks your view, it’s a problem. With fines rising and enforcement increasing, it’s time to rethink what’s on your dashboard. A clean windshield isn’t just about avoiding tickets… it could save your life. Don’t wait for a citation to clear the clutter.
Have you been ticketed for a dashboard violation in Texas? Share your experience in the comments.
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The post State Troopers Alert: Why Drivers in Texas Are Getting Fined for This 2026 Dashboard Violation appeared first on Clever Dude Personal Finance & Money.
