When it comes to UK child seat law, many parents ask the same questions: Where is the safest place for a child car seat? Can a child sit in the front seat?
In short: Children can legally sit in either the front or back of a car if they’re using the correct child seat. However, the back seat, particularly the middle rear seat, is considered the safest place. If a child seat is fitted in the front, specific safety precautions, such as deactivating airbags for rear-facing seats, must be followed.
If a child isn’t positioned or restrained correctly, it not only increases the risk of injury but could also result in a fine of up to £500.
In this guide, we’ll explain where children can sit, what type of seat they need, and how to keep them as safe as possible when travelling.
Where can a child sit in the car?
In the UK, children must use a child car seat until they are 12 years old or 135 cm tall (4’4″) – whichever comes first. In Ireland, the height requirement is 150 cm / 4’9″.
Child seats can be fitted in either the front or rear of the vehicle. However, once a child exceeds 135 cm, they can legally travel without a child seat but must wear an adult seatbelt.
While the law allows children to sit in the front, it’s strongly recommended they travel in the rear seats for safety.
If using a child seat in the front:
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Rear-facing seat: You must deactivate the front airbag.
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Forward-facing seat: Move the passenger seat as far back as possible to maximise distance from the airbag.
It’s also the driver’s legal responsibility to ensure all children under 14 are wearing a seatbelt or correctly restrained.
How to transport a baby or infant
Babies and infants can travel in either the front or back seat, but the rear is generally considered safer.
The type of seat you use depends on your child’s age, height, or weight:
i-Size (R129) seats
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Must be rear-facing until at least 15 months old
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Rear-facing for longer is strongly advised
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Always ensure the seat fits your child’s height correctly
Weight-based (Group) seats
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Categorised by your child’s weight
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You must select the correct group for safe restraint
If placing a rear-facing seat in the front, the airbag must be deactivated.
Where is the safest place for a child seat?
Safety experts recommend keeping children in the back of the car for as long as possible.
In the event of a collision, rear seating reduces the risk of serious injury – particularly from airbags and side impacts.
According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA):
“If the middle rear seat has a three-point seat belt, this is the safest place for a child restraint, as it is furthest from the sides of the vehicle.”
Always check the child seat manufacturer’s fitting guidance.
Key child seat safety reminders
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Children should use a child seat until age 12 or 135 cm
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Rear-facing seats offer the best protection for young children
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Airbags must be deactivated with rear-facing front seats
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The driver is responsible for ensuring children are properly restrained
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