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The law

If a child is below 135cm in height (4ft 5ins) or younger than 12 years of age, they must wear a child restraint.

The only restrictions are if they’re in a vehicle without seatbelts fitted – for example a taxi or bus.

Those not wearing a seatbelt are breaking the law, and the driver responsible could face a fine between £30 and £500.

Seat types

There are four types of child seats:

• Rear-facing child seat – for babies under four years old up to 13kgs
• Front-facing child seat – for children under four years old up to 18kgs
• Booster seat – for children over four years old who weigh more than 15kgs
• Booster cushion – for children over six years old who weigh at least 22kgs

It’s safer to put rear-facing child seats in the rear of the car as opposed to the passenger seat.

In the event of a collision, a child could be harmed if an airbag is deployed. Some new cars have a deactivation switch - use this if you have a child in a rear-facing seat, but do not attempt to alter your car's wiring if it doesn't have one.

Fitting the seat

First choose the correct type of child seat. You can find them in most child or transport retailers, for example Halfords and Mothercare.

Seats are placed into four groups, with baby seats falling into group 0 and booster cushions in group 3. Most are shaped according to a child’s weight and won’t fit in all cars, so mention your car model and child’s weight to help find the right one for you.

If none attach to your car, visit your nearest approved dealership.

1. It’s a good idea to pick a seat which is easy to adjust – so you can remove it quickly and with ease of use.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to fit the seat correctly.
3. Ensure the seat is fastened in place – tight enough so the seat doesn’t slide if you attempt to rock it, but not so tight it hurts.
4. Make sure the seatbelt goes over the child’s shoulder, not across their neck.
5. Avoid twists in the harness.
6. Place the adult seatbelt neatly through the frame, so it doesn’t lie crooked.
7. Only the seat belt’s webbing should be in contact with the seat’s frame.
8. All new cars have ISOFIX anchorage points, which allow a child restraint to be secured safely to the main structure of the car.

Frequently asked questions

What if I have three children but there’s only space for two seats in the back?

One child may use an adult belt. Please note all three children must be in the rear of the vehicle, unless one sits in the front passenger seat with a correct restraint.

Is it OK to carry a baby on my lap if it’s only for a short journey?

No, you must fasten a baby to a suitable child restraint.

Can I use a second-hand child seat?

Check it meets the required UN ECE 44.03 or later standard. Make sure it’s damage-free and fits correctly in your car before using it.

What if I have an accident?

The child seat should be replaced, no matter how small the accident may seem. For more information read our advice on what to do if you're involved in an accident.

How can I check if the seat is fitted correctly?

Ensure you’ve followed the manufacturer’s guidelines precisely. If you’re still not sure you can speak with a Road Safety Officer at your local council or ask a retailer to demonstrate.

Every child seat is different and there isn’t one guide which caters for all seats.

Can I put my child in the front of a car which has a passenger airbag?

It depends on the car – check your vehicle handbook first and sit as far back from the airbag as possible.

Avoid using rear-facing seats in the front of your car. Airbags are powerful safety devices and could hit a baby if deployed, especially one in a rear-facing seat.

What is ISOFIX?

ISOFIX is a fitting point in a car which allows easy plug-in access for a child seat. It stands for "International Standards Organisation FIX" and is designed to make fitting child seats simple. All new cars have ISOFIX points built into them as standard.