Driving Tips
Rules for driving with kids
Car seats, screens and fines
Ryan Barham
Last updated: 15/07/2026
Ryan Barham
Last updated: 15/07/2026
Are you all set for your family holiday? With packing the car, having enough games and screen time to keep the kids entertained, it’s quite easy to miss something. We’ve put together a guide for everything you need to know about travelling with children.
You can read all about children’s car seats in our extensive guide but the main rules you need to remember are:
You have the choice between height-based seats and weight-based seats. Height-based seats will have a label showing a capital E in a circle and the code R129. Weight-based seats will also have a capital E in a circle but alongside the code ECE R44.
| Group | Seats | |
|---|---|---|
| 0kg to 10kg | 0 | Lie-flat or ‘lateral’ baby carrier, rear-facing baby carrier, or rear-facing baby seat using a harness |
| 0kg to 13kg | 0+ | Rear-facing baby carrier or rear-facing baby seat using a harness |
| 9kg to 18kg | 1 | Rear- or forward-facing baby seat using a harness or safety shield |
| 15kg to 25kg | 2 | Rear- or forward-facing child car seat (high-backed booster seat or booster cushion) using a seat belt, harness or safety shield |
| 22kg to 36kg | 3 | Rear- or forward-facing child car seat (high-backed booster seat or booster cushion) using a seat belt, harness or safety shield |
If you’re shopping around for a car seat, you may also see i-Size seats. These are categorised by height rather than weight, and should be rear-facing until children are 15 months old.
Children can stop using booster seats once they turn 12 or reach 135cm tall. Until then, they legally have to sit in a car seat. If you are unsure of their height, you can keep them in the car seat a little longer.
Remember, it’s illegal for children to travel without the required car seat.
You could be fined up to £500 for not using the correct car seat for a child’s age, height or weight. However some police will issue the driver with a non-endorsable fixed penalty notice of £100. Using an incorrect car seat is not just a safety risk but also a legal one - and the responsibility sits with the driver.
A passenger takes responsibility once they turn 14. If you’re taking the wheel, you need to check the children’s seats are installed correctly and seat belts are secure before turning the engine on.
We’re sure it will be a relief to hear that children can indeed use tablets, watch screens and wear headphones in the car. There’s no law banning any of these for children or backseat passengers.
One thing to bear in mind is the driver is responsible for managing distractions caused by passengers. This includes the volume of children’s devices and any arguments over screentime. Ideally, your children’s headphone volume should be low enough for them to hear you and you should also make time for screen breaks. You could try tempting them to put down the device with snacks.
Rule 91 of The Highway Code recommends you take a minimum 15-minute break every two hours. This is the case whether you’re sleepy or just need the kids to stretch their legs and have a run around.
You should keep an eye out for signs of fatigue or car sickness:
Any one of these could be a good sign to pull over in a safe space and get out the car. It gives children and adults the chance to stretch legs, get fresh air and if you’re driving on the motorway, checking the nation’s favourite service stations.
https://www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules/using-a-child-car-seat-or-booster-seat
https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/advice/road-safety/car-seat-laws/
Yes, in the UK, your 7-year-old typically needs a car seat. UK law requires children to use a child car seat until they are 12 years old or 135 cm tall, whichever comes first. Safety experts like Which? and RoSPA advise using a booster seat until 150 cm to ensure the seat belt fits correctly. Always check specific guidelines for your vehicle on GOV.UK.
No, you can't take a child in your car without a car seat if they are under 12 years old or shorter than 135cm. UK law requires children of this age or height to use a suitable child car seat. There are exceptions, such as in taxis or emergencies, but generally, this rule applies for the child's safety.
Children under 13 are safest in the rear seats, even when using a booster seat or seat belt. If a child must sit in the front, push the seat back as far as possible. Always ensure the car seat is installed correctly and that airbags are deactivated if using a rear-facing car seat in the front. Follow the vehicle and car seat manufacturer’s instructions for safety.
Yes, you must turn off the front passenger airbag if a child is in a rear-facing car seat in the front. Deploying the airbag can cause serious injury. For forward-facing seats, push the seat back as far as possible. The UK Child Car Seats Organisation advises that children are safer in the rear seats. Always follow your car manufacturer’s guidelines and check the vehicle's handbook for specific instructions.
Yes, your 7-year-old likely still needs a booster seat. In the UK, children must use a car seat until they’re 12 years old or 135cm tall, whichever comes first (GOV.UK). Adult seat belts are designed for adults, so a booster helps position the belt correctly on a child’s body. Check your child's height and ensure the seat belt fits properly before considering switching to just a seat belt.
Yes, you can take a child in a two-seater car if you follow the correct rules. According to UK law, children must use an appropriate car seat until they are 12 years old or 135 cm tall, whichever comes first. Check your car's manual to see if a car seat can be safely installed in the front passenger seat. Always disable the airbag if a rear-facing car seat is used.
Yes, you can place your 2-year-old in the middle of the back seat. This position is generally considered the safest spot for children under 13 years old. Ensure that the car seat is correctly fitted and secured according to the manufacturer's instructions. Always follow the specific guidelines for your child's car seat and vehicle to maximise safety.
Yes, a child can forward face if they meet the car seat's height and weight limits for forward-facing. Experts advise keeping children rear-facing as long as possible, usually until at least age two, as it’s safer in a crash. Always follow the car seat manufacturer's guidelines and check current safety recommendations to ensure your child’s safety.
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