Child Car Seats and the Law

Child car seat rules are in place to help protect children when travelling by car, van or other vehicle. In the UK, children must normally use a suitable child car seat until they are 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first. Once a child no longer needs to use a child car seat, they must wear a seat belt.

The correct seat will depend on the child's height or weight and the type of vehicle being used. Car seat retailers should be able to help you choose a suitable seat, but it is also important to check that the seat is approved for use in the UK and can be fitted safely in your vehicle.

Approved Child Car Seats

Only approved child car seats should be used in the UK. Approved seats should have a label showing that they meet the relevant safety standard, such as R129 or ECE R44. R129 seats are based on height, while older ECE R44 seats are based on weight groups.

Children under 15 months old must usually travel in a rear-facing car seat. After that, a child may be able to use a forward-facing seat, depending on the seat, the child's size and the manufacturer's instructions.

Choosing and Fitting a Child Car Seat

Not all child car seats fit all vehicles. Before buying or using a seat, you should check that it is suitable for your child's height or weight, compatible with your vehicle and fitted according to the manufacturer's instructions.

You should also check whether any vehicle features affect how the seat can be used. For example, a rear-facing baby seat must not be used in a front passenger seat with an active front airbag.

Booster Seats

Rules on backless booster seats changed in 2017. New backless booster seats are approved only for children over 125cm tall and weighing more than 22kg. This does not mean every older booster seat became illegal overnight, but parents should check the approval label, the manufacturer's instructions and whether the seat is suitable for the child.

High-backed booster seats may provide additional support and protection, particularly for younger children who still need a child restraint.

When a Child Can Travel Without a Car Seat

There are limited circumstances where a child may travel without a child car seat. For example, different rules can apply to taxis, minicabs, minibuses, coaches, emergency journeys, or when there is no room for a third child seat in the rear of a vehicle.

If a taxi or private hire vehicle does not provide the correct child car seat, a child may travel without one only if they sit in the rear. Children aged 3 or over must wear an adult seat belt. Children under 3 may travel without a seat belt in this situation.

Minibuses, Coaches and School Trips

Minibus and coach operators do not usually have to provide child car seats. If you want to make sure your child has a child car seat for a school trip or other journey, you may need to provide one yourself and check in advance whether it can be used safely.

Where seat belts are fitted, they should be worn unless an exception applies.

Penalties for Not Using the Correct Child Seat

Drivers can be fined if a child is not using the correct child car seat or seat belt. If the matter goes to court, the fine can be higher. The driver is usually responsible for making sure children under 14 are correctly restrained.

Because the rules are detailed and safety is the main concern, it is sensible to check the current guidance before travelling if you are unsure which seat is required.

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