Child car seat safety
Choosing the right child car seat is an important part of keeping your child safe on every journey.
Children must normally use a child car seat until they are either:
- 12 years old, or
- 135 centimetres tall
whichever comes first.
Children over 12 years old or taller than 135cm must wear an adult seat belt.
The type of child car seat your child needs depends on their height or weight. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when fitting and using a child car seat.
Height-based child car seats
Height-based child car seats are approved under Regulation R129 and are often known as i-Size seats.
- Many R129 seats use ISOFIX fittings, although some can be installed using a vehicle seat belt.
- Children must travel in a rear-facing seat until they are over 15 months old.
- Only approved height-based seats can be used in the UK. These will have a label showing a capital E in a circle and R129.
Weight-based child car seats
Weight-based seats are selected according to your child's weight and the type of restraint they require.
Approved weight-based child seats have a label showing a capital E in a circle and ECE R44.
The main weight categories are:
- 0kg to 10kg (Group 0)
Lie-flat or lateral baby carrier, rear-facing baby carrier, or rear-facing baby seat with a harness - 0kg to 13kg (Group 0+)
Rear-facing baby carrier or rear-facing baby seat with a harness - 9kg to 18kg (Group 1)
Rear- or forward-facing child seat with a harness or safety shield - 15kg to 25kg (Group 2)
Rear- or forward-facing child seat, high-backed booster seat or booster cushion using a seat belt, harness or safety shield - 22kg to 36kg (Group 3)
Rear- or forward-facing child seat, high-backed booster seat or booster cushion using a seat belt, harness or safety shield
Choosing the right seat for your child's age
Babies (birth to 15 months)
Babies should travel in a rear-facing baby seat, as this provides the best protection for their head, neck and spine.
Children should remain rear-facing until they are at least 15 months old.
Never use a rear-facing child seat in the front passenger seat if there is an active airbag.
Toddlers (15 months to approximately 4 years)
A rear-facing toddler seat provides the best protection and should be used for as long as possible.
Children can also use an approved forward-facing seat if it is suitable for their height and weight.
Young children (approximately 4 to 12 years)
Children should continue using a suitable child car seat or high-backed booster seat until they reach the legal requirements for using an adult seat belt.
A backless booster seat should only be used when a child is:
- 125cm or taller, and
- weighs more than 22kg
High-backed booster seats are recommended for longer because they:
- improve seat belt positioning
- provide better head and neck protection
- offer greater support and comfort during travel
When your child no longer needs a car seat
Your child can stop using a child car seat when they reach either:
- 12 years old, or
- 135cm tall
whichever comes first.
After this point, they must wear an adult seat belt correctly.
Remember
- Choose a car seat that is suitable for your child's height and weight.
- Follow the manufacturer's fitting instructions carefully.
- Check the seat belt fits correctly every time your child travels
- Keep children in the safest seat for their size for as long as possible.
Using the correct child car seat can significantly reduce the risk of serious injury in a collision.
Further information
For more advice about choosing and using child car seats: