Choose and fit a child car seat correctly

Use this guide when buying a first car seat, moving up a stage or fitting a seat in a new car. Have your child's current height and weight, your car's handbook and the make and model of your car ready.

Step by step

1. Know the legal basics

   In the UK, children must normally use a child car seat until they are 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first, and the seat must suit their height or weight. Never fit a rear-facing seat in a front passenger seat with an active airbag; the handbook explains if and how the airbag can be switched off. Only use seats with an approval label, a capital E in a circle and an approval number such as R129 or R44. GOV.UK sets out the rules and limited exceptions, such as some taxis.