Child car seats in taxis are regulated differently from private cars under UK law. Licensed taxis and private hire vehicles are subject to specific legal exemptions, which means children may be able to travel without a child car seat in certain situations.
These rules commonly affect families booking airport transfers and taxi journeys. Understanding how child car seats in taxis are treated under UK law helps parents make informed decisions before travelling.
This guide explains what UK legislation allows, how the taxi exemptions work in practice, and what passengers should expect when travelling with Picks Travel.
Do Taxis Have to Provide Child Car Seats in the UK?
No. Under UK law, licensed taxis and private hire vehicles are not legally required to provide child car seats.
A taxi or airport transfer journey may still be lawful without a child seat, provided the legal conditions set out by the UK Government are met.
Official guidance is published by the UK Government:
https://www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules
When Can a Child Travel Without a Car Seat in a Taxi?
- Children aged 3 or older may travel in the rear seat without a child car seat if one is not available, but must use an adult seat belt.
- Children under 3 years old may travel in the rear seat without a child car seat if one is not available, and do not need to wear a seat belt.
Rear Seats Only
When travelling under taxi exemptions, children must sit in the rear seat. Front seat travel without an appropriate child car seat is not permitted.
Child Car Seats and Picks Travel
Picks Travel does not supply child car seats.
Passengers may bring and fit their own suitable child car seat if compatible with the vehicle and installed correctly.
If a child seat is not supplied by the passenger, journeys operate under the taxi and private hire exemptions set out in UK law.
Common Questions About Child Car Seats in Taxis
Are child seats mandatory in taxis?
No. Child seats are not mandatory in licensed taxis and private hire vehicles in certain situations under UK law.
Can babies travel in taxis without a car seat?
Yes. Children under 3 may travel in the rear seat without a car seat if one is not available.
Do airport transfers follow the same child seat rules as taxis?
Yes. Airport transfers booked as taxis or private hire vehicles follow the same legal rules and exemptions.
Is it safer to bring your own child car seat?
Using an appropriate child car seat is always the safest option where practical, particularly on longer journeys.
Child Car Seats – Frequently Asked Questions
Does Picks Travel provide child car seats?
No. Picks Travel does not supply child car seats.
Is it legal for a child to travel in a taxi without a car seat?
Yes. UK law allows specific exemptions for licensed taxis and private hire vehicles.
Do these rules apply to airport transfers?
Yes. Airport transfers booked as taxis or private hire vehicles follow the same legal rules.
Can I bring my own child car seat?
Yes. Passengers may bring and fit their own suitable child car seat if compatible with the vehicle.
Does my child have to sit in the rear seat?
Yes. Children travelling without a car seat under taxi exemptions must sit in the rear seat.
Where can I find the official UK guidance?
The most accurate and up-to-date guidance is available on the UK Government website.
Booking With Confidence
Understanding the legal position around child car seats helps families book taxis and airport transfers with clarity and confidence.
If you have questions about passenger numbers or vehicle suitability when booking with Picks Travel, these should always be discussed at the time of booking.
Clear communication ensures a smooth journey for everyone involved.