Using a child car seat is a legal requirement in the UK. Children must normally use a child car seat until they’re 12 years old or 135 centimetres tall, whichever comes first.
The same rules apply for children with disabilities or medical conditions, but they can use a disabled person’s seat belt or a child restraint designed for their needs. A doctor can issue an exemption certificate if a child is unable to use a restraint or seat belt because of their condition. Find the table below for the type of car seats required to use.
| Group | Seats | |
|---|---|---|
| 0kg to 10kg | 0 | Lie-flat or ‘lateral’ baby carrier, rear-facing baby carrier, or rear-facing baby seat using a harness |
| 0kg to 13kg | 0+ | Rear-facing baby carrier or rear-facing baby seat using a harness |
| 9kg to 18kg | 1 | Rear- or forward-facing baby seat using a harness or safety shield |
| 15kg to 25kg | 2 | Rear- or forward-facing child car seat (high-backed booster seat or booster cushion) using a seat belt, harness or safety shield |
| 22kg to 36kg | 3 | Rear- or forward-facing child car seat (high-backed booster seat or booster cushion) using a seat belt, harness or safety shield |
Only an EU-approved car seat can be used in the UK. Child car seats approved outside of the EU (the US for example) can’t be used in the UK, and EU-approved car seats can’t be used in other countries, such as the US.
Buying the wrong child car seat could mean you’re putting your child’s life at risk, while also breaking the law.
Fines
A driver can be fined if a child under 14 isn’t in the correct car seat or wearing a seatbelt while you’re driving. Police are able to administer an on-the-spot fine which could be as much as £500 if the case is referred to court. However, there are a limited number of exceptions to the law.
Remember, the driver of the vehicle is responsible for ensuring all passengers are safely strapped in. If you’re the driver, always check.
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