Do You Need a CCTV Sticker in Your Uber? TfL Signage Rules
Timi
If you have any camera fitted in your PCO car, you need CCTV signs, and getting them wrong is one of the easiest ways to fail an inspection.
Yes, you need signs, even for a road-facing camera
TfL requires signage whenever a CCTV system is fitted in a licensed vehicle. That includes a forward-facing dash cam, because TfL treats it as CCTV. TfL’s guidelines specifically say that where a camera records outside the vehicle, a warning sign should be displayed wherever practical.
The two signs you need
1. The TfL interior sign
This sign tells passengers that recording is taking place and who the data controller is.
- It’s issued by TfL
- You can collect it from a TfL vehicle inspection centre
- It has a blank space where you add the data controller’s contact details: a phone number, email address or website
It needs to be in a prominent position where passengers can see it.
2. The exterior sign
This tells people outside the vehicle that recording is happening, before they get in. It’s usually provided by your camera supplier.
When you buy a camera, ask whether the exterior sign is included.
The mistake that fails cars
Drivers stick the TfL sign in the window and leave the contact field blank. That’s still a fail.
TfL’s inspection manual lists these as reasons for refusal:
- Mandatory CCTV signage not displayed in a prominent position
- Data controller contact details not completed or not readable
So a fully approved, perfectly fitted camera can still fail because of a blank box on a sticker. Write the details clearly in permanent ink. If the sign fades or gets damaged, replace it.
Who is the data controller?
TfL defines the data controller as whoever decided to have the camera installed.
- If you bought and fitted the camera, it’s you. Your contact details go on the sign.
- If your rental company fitted it, it’s usually them. Their details go on the sign.
- If you’re in a scheme like Uber’s Otto Car partnership, Uber says the camera owner is the data controller. Check the contract to see whose details should go on the sign.
What being the data controller means
The sign isn’t just a sticker. It tells passengers who to contact about their data. That means you need to be ready to handle requests.
Pay the ICO fee
The ICO says anyone using a dash cam for work in a work vehicle needs to pay the data protection fee, even if they own the vehicle. Most small businesses pay the lowest tier, currently £52 a year. TfL can ask to see proof during your licence period.
Handle footage requests properly
Passengers can ask for footage of themselves. The police, insurers and TfL may also ask. Requests from organisations should be in writing and say why they need it. Don’t hand over an SD card on the spot.
Delete footage on time
Footage should overwrite automatically and be kept no longer than 28 days, unless it’s needed for a claim or investigation.
Tell people when you use footage
If your camera captures an incident involving someone, TfL’s guidelines say you should let them know their data was recorded, and why the camera is fitted, as soon as practical after the incident.
Quick signage checklist
- TfL interior sign displayed where passengers can see it
- Data controller details filled in clearly and readable
- Exterior sign displayed
- Signs not blocking your view or your TfL licence discs
- ICO fee paid and proof kept
- Audio recording switched off
Frequently asked questions
Where do I get a TfL CCTV sign?
The interior sign is issued by TfL and can be collected from a vehicle inspection centre. The exterior sign usually comes from your camera supplier.
Do I need a CCTV sign for a front-facing dash cam?
Yes. TfL treats road-facing cameras as CCTV and expects a warning sign.
What do I write on the TfL CCTV sign?
The data controller’s contact details: a phone number, email address or website.
Can my car fail inspection because of CCTV signs?
Yes. Missing signs, or signs with blank or unreadable contact details, are both reasons for refusal.
Do I need new signs if I change cars?
Yes. The signs belong with the camera in the vehicle. If you move the camera to a new car, put up fresh signs with the correct contact details before your next inspection.
Do I need to tell passengers they’re being recorded?
The signs do that before and during the trip. If you use footage of an incident, you should also tell the people recorded as soon as practical.
Next steps
When you buy an approved camera, ask the supplier for the exterior sign and how they handle the paperwork. Traknova’s approved cameras are professionally fitted and certified for PCO cars.