Global Radar Detector Legality Guide (Worldwide Overview)

Updated & Comprehensive Guide.

Radar detectors are widely used by drivers who want early warnings of police radar, speed cameras, and laser guns. But because every country has different traffic laws, a radar detector’s legality changes depending on where you drive. This guide gives you a clear, region-by-region breakdown of where radar detectors are legal, restricted, or banned.

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Where Radar Detectors Are Fully Legal

In these countries, radar detectors are legal for personal vehicle use with no major restrictions unless noted.

North America

United States

• Legal in 49 states

• Illegal only in Virginia and Washington D.C.

• Illegal for commercial trucks over 10,000 lbs nationwide

Canada

Europe (Legal Countries)

• United Kingdom

• Belgium

• Netherlands

• Czech Republic

• Romania

• Spain 

Oceania

• New Zealand

Yes, radar detectors are legal to own and use in New Zealand

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Countries Where Radar Detectors Are Illegal

In these countries, radar detectors are banned. Possession, usage, or import can result in fines or device confiscation.

Europe (Most Countries)

• Austria

• Switzerland

• Norway

• Sweden

• Finland

• Denmark

• Poland

• Portugal

• Hungary

• Greece

• Turkey

• Luxembourg

Middle East

• United Arab Emirates

• Saudi Arabia

• Qatar

• Kuwait

Africa

• South Africa

• Morocco

• Egypt

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Asia: Radar Detector Legality

Legal or Commonly Allowed

• Japan (detectors allowed)

• South Korea

• Thailand

Illegal

• China

• India

• Singapore

• Malaysia

• Taiwan

Mixed or Unclear Enforcement

• Philippines (varies by region)

• Indonesia (allowed but uncommon)

• Vietnam (gray area, sometimes seized)

 

 

Before driving internationally, always verify the most recent radar-detector regulations because laws may change. Veil X users should ensure they follow local laws and avoid using the device in regions where radar detectors are prohibited.