These rules apply to hackney carriage and private hire vehicles only.
Driver seat belt rules
Private hire drivers
- you must wear a seat belt when you are not carrying passengers
- when carrying passengers, it is recommended that you wear a seat belt, but it is not a legal requirement
Hackney carriage drivers
- you do not have to wear a seat belt when:
- you are plying for hire (waiting at a taxi rank or being hailed on the street)
- you are carrying passengers
- you must wear a seat belt if:
- you are not carrying passengers and are outside your licensed area
Passenger seat belt rules
As the driver, you are legally responsible for making sure children under 14 are using seat belts or child restraints correctly.
Children under 3 years
- can travel unrestrained in the rear only if a child seat is not available
Children aged 3 to 12 (or under 135cm tall)
- children can only travel in the front seat if a child seat is fitted
- in the rear, they must use a child seat if available, or an adult seat belt
Children aged 12 or 13 (or over 135cm tall)
- must use an adult seat belt in the front or rear
A child restraint includes baby seats, child seats, booster seats, or booster cushions.
Legal penalties
- as a driver, you can be fined up to £500 if a child under 14 is not properly restrained.
- not following seat belt laws may also:
- affect your motor insurance claims.
- lead to civil claims if someone is injured due to your failure to follow the law.