Child Car Seats
Choosing and using child car seats
Until a child reaches 14 years old it is the driver's legal responsibility to ensure that the child is correctly restrained.
Children must use the correct child car seat until they are 12 years old or 135cm tall whichever comes first. Extending the use of a child car seat until the child reaches up to 150cm in height will protect them for longer.
Choose a child car seat based on the child’s height or weight

Weight-based seats
These relate broadly to different age groups but it is the weight of the child that is most important.
Weight-based seats must have a label showing a capital ‘E’ in a circle and ‘ECE R44’.
While it is legal under the current regulation (R44.04) for children to use a forward-facing Group 1 seat when they weigh 9kg or more, it does not offer the child the best protection.
It is recommended to keep the child rear-facing for as long as possible.
Group 0
|
Rear-facing |
Group 1
|
Rear/forward-facing |
Group 2
|
High-backed booster seat or booster cushion |
You may be able to choose a combination seat which covers more than one group.
A booster cushion, without a back or side wings, is not recommended as it removes side and head protection from the child car seat.

Height-based seats
These focus on the child’s height.
Ensure that the child's height is within range of the seat that you intend to use.
Height-based seats must have a label showing a capital ‘E’ in a circle and ‘R129’.
The child must be rear-facing until they are over 15 months old, but it is recommended to remain rear-facing as long as possible as this offers greater protection.
Height-based child car seats displaying an ‘i-size’ logo are compatible with ‘i-size’ certified vehicles.
► Ensuring the correct fit
► Other points to consider
► Download the leaflet
