Car Seat Laws and Recommendations in the UK

When it comes to travelling with your baby or child, car seat safety is one of the most important things to get right. It’s not just about legal requirements — it’s about keeping your child as safe as possible in the event of a crash.

The Law: What You Need to Know

In the UK, car seat laws are in place to protect children on the road:

• Children must use a suitable car seat until they are 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first.

• Babies under 15 months must be in a rear-facing seat.

• Rear-facing seats must not be used in a seat with an active airbag.

• Only EU-approved car seats (labelled with a capital “E” in a circle) are legal to use.

From June 2025, all new seats sold must meet updated safety standards, including improved side-impact protection.

Why It’s About More Than Just Following the Car Seat Laws

Legal minimums don’t always equal best practice. In many cases, exceeding the minimum (for example, by keeping your child rear-facing for longer or using a high-backed booster beyond age 6) gives them much more protection.

Children’s bones, spines and muscle strength are still developing. The safest option is always the one that offers maximum support in a collision — which isn’t always the one the law allows at the earliest possible point.

Common Mistakes to Be Aware Of

Even when using the correct seat for your child’s age and size, common errors can impact safety:

• Loose harnesses – The straps should lie flat and be tight enough that you can’t pinch them at the shoulder.

• Padded coats – These can compress in a crash and create slack in the harness. It’s safer to strap your baby in without a coat and use blankets over the top.

• Incorrect installation – Car seats must be fitted according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Second-hand seats – If you don’t know the full history, it’s impossible to know if the seat is safe to use.

⚠️ Please Note

We are not car seat experts, and this blog is for informational purposes only. For personalised advice, up-to-date guidance, and car seat checks, we strongly recommend speaking to a qualified car seat specialist or visiting a local fitting service. Many children’s centres, fire stations, and baby retailers offer this support.

How Our Classes Can Help

We talk about car seat laws in our antenatal classes, because it’s an important part of preparing for life with your baby. We’ll help you:

• Understand the basic laws and how to avoid common mistakes

• Know what to look out for as your baby grows

• Feel more confident when choosing and using your car seat

If you're in Warwickshire, our Beyond the Bump in-person antenatal courses are packed with practical guidance and a supportive, relaxed vibe.

If you're based elsewhere, our online antenatal course via The Birth & Baby Academy gives you the same expert information and reassurance — accessible from anywhere.

Every journey matters, and car seat safety can make all the difference. The right knowledge, support, and confidence can help keep your child safe — from the very first drive home.