Quick Answer

Passenger Vehicle Rules in Indiana

Radar detectors are legal to use in Indiana for privately owned passenger vehicles. That covers the typical daily driver: cars, SUVs, and light trucks used for personal transportation. Indiana does not have a general statewide ban on radar detectors for regular drivers.

Legal does not mean invisible. If your setup blocks visibility, looks distracting, or is mounted in a questionable spot on the windshield, you can still create problems during a stop. That is why mounting guidance matters just as much as the legality of the device.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions in Indiana

The radar detector restriction for commercial vehicles is driven by federal law. Under 49 CFR 392.71, no driver may use a radar detector in a commercial motor vehicle, or operate a commercial motor vehicle that is equipped with or contains a radar detector.

If you operate a vehicle that qualifies as a commercial motor vehicle, treat the detector ban as active even inside Indiana where passenger use is legal. If you are not sure whether your vehicle is considered a commercial motor vehicle for this purpose, confirm your status with your employer or a qualified compliance resource before installing any detection equipment.

Jammers in Indiana: Radar vs Laser

Radar jammers

A radar detector receives signals. A radar jammer transmits interference. The FCC states that jammers are illegal to operate, market, or sell in the United States. In addition, Indiana has enacted state level laws addressing signal jamming devices, which are aimed at intentional interference with communications and related systems.

Bottom line: do not use radar jammers in Indiana. This is not a gray area. It is a high risk choice with no upside.

Laser jammers

Laser jammer legality is handled at the state level, which is why the rules vary across the country. Indiana is commonly reported as allowing laser jammers for passenger vehicles. Still, laws and enforcement practices can change, and neighboring states may treat laser jammers differently. If you travel, verify the current rules for every state on your route.

Mounting Tips and Windshield Visibility Rules in Indiana

In Indiana, windshield and visibility rules are often enforced through general safety and obstruction standards. Indiana also includes specific limitations for certain items placed on the windshield, including allowances for small nontransparent materials up to a certain size in specified areas. The safest strategy is simple: do not block the driver’s view, keep devices compact, and mount in a location that does not invite a visibility argument.

1) Keep the device out of your primary line of sight

Avoid placing a detector low in the center of the windshield or anywhere it becomes a visual barrier. Even if your detector is legal, a poor placement can look like an obstruction.

2) Mount high and tight near the rearview mirror

High, centered mounting near the rearview mirror is a common best practice. It keeps the detector discreet, reduces cabin clutter, and helps minimize vibration compared to long arm suction mounts.

3) Avoid long, flexible arms that amplify shake

Vibration makes detectors harder to read and can cause constant repositioning. The shorter and more rigid the mount, the more stable your device will be on rough pavement and during braking.

4) Plan for parking and quick removal

A visible detector can attract attention when parked. If you park in lots, garages, or street parking frequently, choose a setup that supports quick removal or keeps the device less visible from outside the car.

Indiana Radar Detector Law Summary