Child Seat & Seat Belt policy

DVLA Regulations In Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles

It is not a legal requirement for a child to travel in a car seat in a Taxi or Private Hire vehicle if one is not available.

Whilst we do not provide our own child seats for customers to use, we do however offer and encourage passengers to use it, a service whereby you can use your own seat in our vehicle and once we have dropped you off at your destination, we can keep your seat securely in our office until either we bring it back with us when we collect you on your return, or you can collect it yourself when it is convenient for you.

Summary of the Seat Belt & Car Seat Laws for Taxis and Private Hire Cars

1. Front Seat

  • Children under 3 years old;
    • Correct child restraint MUST be used
  • Children aged 3 and above, until they reach EITHER their 12th birthday OR 135cm in height;
    • Correct child restraint MUST be used
  • Children over 1.35 metres, or 12 to 13 years:
    • Seat belt MUST be worn
  • Adult passengers (ie 14 years and over)
    • Seat belt MUST be worn

2. Rear Seat

  • Children under 3 years old;
    • If the correct child restraint is not available in a licensed taxi or private hire vehicle, then the child may travel unrestrained in the rear.
  • Children aged 3 and above, until they reach EITHER their 12th birthday OR 135cm in height;
    • If the correct child restraint is not available in a licensed taxi or private hire vehicle, use an adult belt
  • Children over 1.35 metres, or 12 to 13 years;
    • Seat belt MUST be worn
  • Adult passengers (ie 14 years and over);
    • Seat belt MUST be worn

A comprehensive guide is available at www.childcarseats.org.uk/law/index.htm