It’s important to remember that the laws outline the minimum requirements for children when travelling in the car. Evidence shows that there is more that can be done above and beyond these minimum requirements to help keep children safe.
Under 6 months: Children under 6 months must use a rearward-facing restraint that is properly fitted and adjusted. They must not travel in the front seat of a vehicle that has two or more rows of seats.
6 months to 4 years: Children 6 months to 4 years must use either a rearward- or forward-facing restraint with an in-built harness. It is strongly recommended children remain rear facing until they reach the maximum size limit of the restraint (as shown by the shoulder height markers on the child car restraint) as it protects the head and neck from serious injury in a collision.
4 to 7 years: Children aged 4 to 7 years must use either a forward-facing restraint with an in-built harness or a booster seat with an adult seatbelt. Children should only move to a booster seat once they have reached the maximum size limit (as shown by the shoulder height markers on the child car restraint) of their forward-facing restraint with an in-built harness.
Over 7 years: Children aged 7 and over are recommended to stay in a booster seat until they reach the maximum size limit of the booster (as shown by the shoulder height markers on the child car restraint) and can pass the 5-step test to ensure they are ready to be seated with an adult seatbelt only.