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8 TfL Approved Dash Cams Tested & Verified for London Taxis (2025)
Driving a PCO car without a Tfl-approved dash cam? You might be breaking regulations. Every taxi and PCO car in London needs TfL approved dashcams. These devices improve safety and serve as evidence when incidents happen.
By: Majid Ismailzada
The systems can include up to four cameras, and the footage must be stored for 28 days to meet TfL rules.
The cameras need secure mounting that won't block your view. We looked at many options from TfL's approved list to find the best dash cams for taxi drivers in 2025.
Using a dashcam device that is not on the TfL approved list may lead to action being taken by compliance officers, potentially resulting in losing your license. While dashcams are not mandatory for all taxi and PCO cars in London, if you choose to install one, it must be TfL approved to comply with licensing conditions.
Important Note: TfL's own guidance stipulates that any device used must be ICO compliant. However, most devices on the TfL list are actually not ICO compliant and therefore not legal to use under current data protection regulations.TfL is currently reviewing their guidelines and approval list, with consultation responses due by the 27th of this month. They are considering consultation on mandatory CCTV next year, as the last consultation ended on March 22nd, 2023.
The systems can include up to four cameras, and when footage is recorded, it must be stored for 28 days to meet TfL rules. The cameras need secure mounting that won't block your view. We've reviewed the current valid options from TfL's approved list to find the best dash cams for taxi drivers in 2025.
Comparison Table of Best Tfl-Approved Dash Cams
| Model | Resolution | Storage | Key Features | Price | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ACSS ACM1B | 720p HD | Up to 256GB SD | 4 camera inputs, GPS, AES256 encryption, 3-min audio (push-button), compact size | £450 | Central London drivers, night shift, VIP clients |
| ACSS ACX1B | 720p HD | 1TB or 2TB HDD | 4-channel HD, AES256 encryption, GPS, 3-min audio, H.265 compression | £640 | Black cabs, MPVs, drivers in high-risk or congested zones |
| SAFE Systems 2-Cam | Front: 1080p / Interior: 720p IR | 1TB HDD | Dual cams, GPS, IR interior, 1-min audio (TfL), 2-yr warranty | £500 | PHV & black cab drivers, evening/late shifts |
| SAFE Systems 3-Cam | Front: 1080p / Interior: 720p IR / Rear: 1080p | 1TB HDD | Triple cam setup, GPS, IR interior, panic button audio, 2-yr warranty | £560 | Uber/Bolt, large vehicles, drivers in busy districts |
| SAFE Systems 4-Cam | Configurable up to 4 channels | 1TB HDD | Full coverage, panic button, GPS, IR capable, ICO-conscious installation | £620 | Fleet managers, high-risk route drivers, compliance-heavy work |
ACSS ACM1B
The ACSS ACM1B leads the TfL-approved dash cam list and provides a reliable security system for London taxi and private hire drivers. This compact yet powerful system meets Transport for London's strict rules and offers complete protection for drivers and passengers.
ACSS ACM1B Key Features
The ACM1B excels through its advanced technical capabilities. The system connects up to four cameras and provides full coverage of your vehicle's interior and exterior. Every detail shows up clearly with 720p HD recording quality, which becomes invaluable when resolving disputes or handling insurance claims.
The storage capacity really stands out. The system supports up to 256GB SD cards that record about 30 days of footage using H265 video compression. This exceeds TfL's minimum requirement of 28-day footage retention.
GPS tracking adds another powerful feature that records your vehicle's exact location throughout the trip. You'll have solid proof of routes taken, speeds maintained, and places visited.
The system uses AES256 data encryption that keeps all footage secure and tamper-proof. A push-button activates audio recording that captures up to 3 minutes of sound at a 40KB/s rate, providing extra evidence when needed.
ACSS ACM1B Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fully TfL compliant, meeting all regulatory requirements
- Multi-camera support for complete coverage
- Large 256GB storage capacity beyond minimum requirements
- Built-in GPS to verify trips
- Strong security with AES256 encryption
- Push-button audio recording to document incidents
- Multiple installation options for different vehicles
Cons:
- Timed audio recording (3-minute chunks) is a TfL requirement
- Professional installation recommended
- Higher cost than non-TfL approved options
- Learning curve for footage management
ACSS ACM1B Pricing
The ACSS ACM1B starts at £450.00. This price reflects an important investment for professional drivers. The main recording unit comes with this price, but you might need additional cameras based on your requirements.
Several vendors offer installation with your purchase, so it makes sense to check different suppliers to get the best deal with fitting and setup included.
ACSS ACM1B Best For
The ACSS ACM1B fits perfectly for London black cab drivers and private hire operators who want full TfL compliance while prioritizing security. The system's comprehensive feature set helps drivers who work mainly in central London's busy areas, drive night shifts with higher security risks, want protection from false claims or disputes, need solid evidence for insurance purposes, and care about data security and passenger privacy.
ACSS ACX1B
ACSS's reputation for reliable security solutions continues with the ACX1B. This model advances TfL approved dash cam technology further, delivering exceptional surveillance capabilities designed specifically for London taxi and private hire drivers.
ACSS ACX1B Key Features
The ACX1B stands out as a comprehensive HD recording system that supports four separate channels. The system provides full coverage of your vehicle through strategically placed cameras that monitor front, passenger, and rear views simultaneously.
The system's storage capacity impresses with 1TB or 2TB hard drive options. This large storage space allows around 30 days of continuous recording with H265 video compression technology. The system records footage at 720p HD resolution and provides crystal-clear documentation of every incident.
AES256 data encryption makes it one of the most secure systems on the market. The ACX1B also features GPS location tracking that documents your routes and positions throughout your trips.
The system includes a dedicated microphone with push-button activation for audio documentation. It records at 40KB/s up to three minutes each time you activate it, providing verbal evidence during disputes or incidents.
ACSS ACX1B Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Supports up to four cameras for complete vehicle coverage
- Large storage capacity (1TB/2TB) beyond TfL requirements
- Military-grade AES256 encryption for secure footage
- H265 compression maximizes storage efficiency
- GPS tracking provides route verification
- Push-button audio recording documents incidents
- Two-year warranty included
Cons:
- Timed audio recording (3-minute limit) is a TfL requirement
- Professional installation needed
- Higher initial cost than simple dash cams
- 720p resolution is clear but not the highest available today
ACSS ACX1B Pricing
The ACSS ACX1B system costs £640.00. This price reflects the system's robust capabilities and TfL-approved status.
The standard package includes the main recording unit, selected cameras (based on your needs), a 1TB hard drive, GPS tracking antenna, push-button microphone (if selected), and warning stickers that inform passengers about recording. The price usually includes installation.
ACSS ACX1B Best For
The ACX1B system works best for black taxi operators (including LEVC and TX Electric models), MPV private hire vehicles that need maximum coverage, drivers who work in high-risk areas or night shifts, operators who want to prevent losses from false claims, and drivers using Uber or Bolt who cannot risk account suspensions.
SAFE Systems 605 Standard
The SAFE Systems 605 Standard uses a reliable hard drive system rather than SD cards. This TfL approved dash cam provides London taxi and PHV drivers exceptional recording reliability. Professional drivers get security and peace of mind with a comprehensive package designed specifically for them.
SAFE Systems 605 Standard Key Features
The SAFE Systems 605 Standard stands out on the TfL approved dash cam list with its impressive specifications. The system uses a dual-channel setup with a 1080p front camera and a 720p infrared passenger camera inside. Night driving presents no problems - the infrared feature captures clear footage during evening shifts.
Storage is where this system really excels. The 1TB hard drive stores at least a month of recordings, significantly outperforming typical SD card systems.
The dedicated push-button microphone records audio on a one-minute timer, providing vital evidence during disputes while staying within privacy regulations and TfL requirements.
SAFE Systems 605 Standard Pros and Cons
Pros::- Hard drives provide better reliability than SD cards
- Records for at least a month with multiple cameras running
- Infrared interior camera shows clear footage in dark conditions
- Full TfL approval meets all regulations
- Two-year warranty provides long-term coverage
- Professional installation service available
- Timed audio recording (1-minute limit) is a TfL requirement
- Higher upfront cost than simple dash cams
- Professional installation recommended
- Takes up more space than compact options
SAFE Systems 605 Standard Pricing
The SAFE Systems 605 Standard costs £500.00. Professional drivers find this investment worthwhile. SAFE Systems has 4 engineers covering the London area, ensuring comprehensive installation and support coverage.
SAFE Systems 605 Standard Best For
The SAFE Systems 605 Standard works excellently for London black cab and private hire drivers who want maximum reliability, drivers working late hours who need infrared recording, people who prefer longer recording times without SD card management, and those looking for local support with professional installation.
SAFE Systems 605 Premium
The SAFE Systems 605 Premium takes taxi surveillance to the next level with its comprehensive triple-camera solution. London taxi and private hire drivers get maximum coverage from this TfL approved dash cam system, with front, rear and passenger-facing cameras working together to record every angle.
SAFE Systems 605 Premium Key Features
The 605 Premium package centres around its three-channel recording capability. The setup includes a 1080p front-facing camera, a 720p infrared passenger camera, and a 1080p rear camera, providing complete coverage of your vehicle's interior and exterior surroundings.
Your footage stays safe on a 1TB encrypted hard drive that holds about 31 days of recordings, ensuring you'll always have access to historical footage for evidence or resolving disputes.
The dedicated panic button microphone allows audio recording. Once pressed, it records sound for one minute, providing vital evidence during incidents while following privacy regulations and TfL requirements.
SAFE Systems 605 Premium Pros and Cons
Pros:- Three cameras provide comprehensive coverage
- Infrared interior camera records clearly at night
- 1TB storage exceeds TfL requirements
- No monthly fees - one-time payment
- Panic button records audio during incidents
- Timed audio recording (1-minute limit) is a TfL requirement
- Higher cost than basic dash cam options
- Professional installation needed
- Takes up more space than compact systems
SAFE Systems 605 Premium Pricing
The SAFE Systems 605 Premium costs £560.00, which represents excellent value compared to the previous pricing structure. SAFE Systems has 4 engineers covering the London area for installation and support.
SAFE Systems 605 Premium Best For
This system works best for Uber and PHV drivers who need maximum protection, drivers with larger vehicles, night shift drivers who benefit from infrared recording, drivers who want to prevent false allegations, and professionals who value comprehensive coverage.
SAFE Systems 605 Standard key features
The SAFE Systems 605 Standard stands out on the TfL approved dash cam list with its impressive specs. The system uses a dual-channel setup with a 1080p front camera and a 720p infrared passenger camera inside. Night driving is no problem - the infrared feature captures clear footage during evening shifts.
Storage is where this system really shines. The 1TB hard drive stores at least a month of recordings. This beats typical SD card systems that can't record nearly as much footage. The dedicated push-button microphone records audio on a one-minute timer. This gives vital evidence during disputes while staying within privacy rules. The system also comes with:- GPS tracking antenna that monitors exact location
- Built-in monitor to check live footage
- System off switch you can use when recording stops
- Small cameras with 170° wide-angle lenses that fit discreetly
The package has passenger warning stickers and audio warning signs to meet privacy regulations.
SAFE Systems 605 Standard pros and cons
Pros:
- Hard drives work better than SD cards for reliability
- Records for at least a month with four cameras running
- Infrared interior camera shows clear footage in dark conditions
- Full TfL approval means it meets all regulations
- Two-year warranty covers you long-term
- Local fitting service comes with purchase
Cons:
- Audio only records in one-minute chunks
- Costs more upfront than simple dash cams
- Needs professional installation
- Takes up more space than compact options
SAFE Systems 605 Standard pricing
The SAFE Systems 605 Standard costs £640.00. Professional drivers find this investment worthwhile. The price has fitting at DTec Tower Hamlets E1 included, which adds real value. SAFE Systems helps with the cost through 0% finance options over 3-6 months for the CCTV unit (not including installation). Drivers can protect themselves right away while paying in smaller amounts.
SAFE Systems 605 Standard best for
The SAFE Systems 605 Standard works great for:
- London black cab and private hire drivers who want maximum reliability
- Drivers working late hours who need infrared recording
- People tired of changing SD cards who want longer recording times
- Those looking for local support and expert installation
- Drivers who've had SD card problems before
The manufacturer says more local authorities approve this system than any other vehicle CCTV in the taxi industry. Drivers working across different areas benefit from wide acceptance.
5. SAFE Systems 605 Premium
The SAFE Systems 605 Premium takes taxi surveillance to the next level with its detailed triple-camera solution. London taxi and private hire drivers get maximum coverage from this TfL approved dash cam system. The front, rear and passenger-facing cameras work together to record every angle.
SAFE Systems 605 Premium key features
We designed the 605 Premium package around its three-channel recording capability. The setup has a 1080p front-facing camera, a 720p infrared passenger camera, and a 1080p rear camera. These cameras give you complete coverage of your vehicle's interior and exterior surroundings.
Your footage stays safe on a 1TB encrypted hard drive that holds about 31 days of recordings. This is a big deal as it means that you'll always have access to historical footage for evidence or resolving disputes.The dedicated panic button microphone lets you record audio. Once pressed, it records sound for one minute. This gives you vital evidence during incidents while following privacy regulations. The system's core features include:
- GPS tracking antenna to verify exact locations
- Passenger warning stickers and audio notification labels
- System off switch when you don't need recording
- Two-year warranty on the unit
The package meets all TfL requirements, making it fully compliant for London's taxi and private hire vehicles.
SAFE Systems 605 Premium pros and cons
Pros:
- Three cameras give you detailed coverage
- Infrared interior camera records clearly at night
- 1TB storage goes beyond TfL requirements
- No monthly fees - just pay once
- Panic button records audio during incidents
Cons:
- Costs more than simple dash cam options
- Audio recording stops after one minute
- You'll need professional installation
- Takes up more space than compact systems
SAFE Systems 605 Premium pricing
The SAFE Systems 605 Premium costs £700.00, which is £60 more than the Standard model. This price covers installation at DTec Tower Hamlets E1.
Home installation adds £90 to the cost. You only pay once with no monthly fees, making this system affordable over time. Tax benefits can help offset your investment since the system counts as a business expense.
SAFE Systems 605 Premium best for
This system works best for:
- Uber and PHV drivers who need maximum protection
- Drivers with larger vehicles like the Seat Alhambra
- Night shift drivers who benefit from infrared recording
- Drivers who want to prevent false allegations
- Professionals who value coverage over price
The SAFE Systems 605 Premium protects both drivers and passengers exceptionally well. Your vehicle stays monitored inside and out with the three cameras, and the large storage means you won't miss important incidents. London taxi operators who want detailed coverage and peace of mind will find this Premium package a solid investment in security and professionalism.
SAFE Systems 4-Camera System
For the ultimate in vehicle surveillance, SAFE Systems offers a 4-camera system that provides complete 360-degree coverage of your vehicle. This represents the pinnacle of TfL-approved dash cam technology.
SAFE Systems 4-Camera Key Features
The 4-camera system extends the Premium package with an additional camera angle, ensuring no blind spots remain around your vehicle. This comprehensive coverage includes front, rear, interior, and an additional strategic angle based on your vehicle type and requirements.
All cameras work together with the same 1TB encrypted hard drive system, GPS tracking, and panic button audio recording found in other SAFE Systems models.
SAFE Systems 4-Camera Pricing
The SAFE Systems 4-camera system costs £620.00, representing exceptional value for maximum coverage. With 4 engineers covering London, installation and ongoing support remain comprehensive.
SAFE Systems 4-Camera Best For
This system suits drivers requiring maximum security coverage, high-value transport services, operators in high-risk areas, and professionals who want absolute protection from all angles.
Important Regulatory Updates
TfL is currently reviewing their guidelines and approval list. They are considering consultation on mandatory CCTV next year, as the previous consultation ended on March 22nd, 2023. The deadline for responding to the current review is the 27th of this month.
It's worth noting that while TfL requires ICO compliance for any installed devices, most devices on the TfL list are actually not ICO compliant and therefore not legal to use under current data protection regulations. This regulatory inconsistency is currently being addressed.
Conclusion
Your specific needs as a London taxi driver will determine which TfL approved dash cam works best for you. Based on current availability and regulatory compliance, only ACSS and SAFE Systems offer valid TfL-approved CCTV systems.
The ACSS ACX1B with its 2TB storage works excellently for drivers who want to keep footage longer, while the SAFE Systems range offers various coverage options from 2-camera systems at £500 to comprehensive 4-camera systems at £620.
Consider what you really need and your budget. Night drivers should look for infrared features, larger vehicles might want multiple camera angles, and high-risk area drivers would benefit from maximum coverage options.
Any valid TfL-approved dash cam from ACSS or SAFE Systems will significantly improve your security while keeping you within regulations on London's busy streets.
