Car Seat Laws and Regulations in France: Taxis, Cars and Car Rentals for Children

Jan 29
3 min read

France is a wonderful destination for families, from exploring the iconic streets of Paris and its museums to the scenic vineyards of Bordeaux, the beaches of the Côte d’Azur, and the charming villages of Provence. Traveling with children in France is memorable, but ensuring safe transportation is essential. Understanding car seat laws in France helps parents travel confidently, avoid surprises, and keep children safe on every ride.

As parents, we carefully plan sightseeing, meals, and accommodations, yet transport is often overlooked. Knowing the rules before you arrive allows you to move around France smoothly, whether taking a taxi, driving your own car, or renting a vehicle.

Understanding Car Seat Laws in France

In France, children under 10 years old or shorter than 135 cm must use a certified child restraint system appropriate for their age, weight, and height.

Infants and toddlers should travel in rear-facing or forward-facing child seats depending on age and size.
Older children must use booster seats until they meet the legal height requirement.
Child seats must comply with European safety standards (ECE R44/04 or i-Size R129).

These rules apply to private vehicles and rental cars throughout France, ensuring safety on city streets, highways, and rural roads.

Taxis and Child Seat Requirements in France

Taxis in France are legally exempt from providing child car seats. If a taxi does not have a child seat available, children may legally travel without one. While permitted under the law, this does not guarantee safety, especially on busy streets, highways, or during long transfers.

Most taxis do not carry child seats unless requested in advance. Many families choose to pre-book a child seat taxi in France to ensure children travel safely from the moment they leave the airport, train station, or hotel.

Through Taxibambino.com, parents can reserve taxis and transfers with infant seats, child seats, or booster seats matched to the child’s age and size. This removes stress and provides peace of mind while traveling.

Car Rentals and Driving in France with Children

If you rent a car in France, full compliance with child restraint laws is mandatory. Rental vehicles are not exempt, and children must always be properly restrained.

While rental companies may offer child seats as an optional extra, availability can be limited, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Quality and installation of rental seats can vary. Many families either bring their own car seat or rely on family taxis in France with child seats or boosters to simplify travel logistics.

Practical Tips for Safe Family Travel in France

France’s roads range from busy city streets to rural highways and mountain passes. Planning your child’s transport in advance reduces stress and ensures every ride is safe. Choosing transport that already includes the correct child seat allows parents to focus on exploring France’s landmarks, beaches, and countryside rather than worrying about compliance or safety.

Parents traveling with infants should prioritize rear-facing seats whenever possible. Safety standards from home should travel with you abroad.

Traveling Safely with Taxibambino in France

For families seeking reliable, child-friendly transportation, Taxibambino.com provides a trusted solution. Booking in advance guarantees taxis and transfers are equipped with certified child seats, whether you are traveling in Paris, Nice, Lyon, or smaller towns across the country.

A family taxi in France with a child seat or booster provides peace of mind and ensures every journey starts safely.

FAQ: Car Seat Laws and Family Travel in France

Are car seats mandatory in France?Yes. Children under 10 years old or shorter than 135 cm must use an appropriate child restraint in private and rental vehicles.

Do taxis in France have to provide child car seats?No. Taxis are legally exempt if a seat is not available, but pre-booking a taxi with a child seat is strongly recommended.

Can I bring my own car seat to France?Yes. Many families bring their own, particularly for infants, although it may be less convenient for taxis and transfers.

Do rental cars in France include child seats automatically?No. Child seats must be requested separately, and availability is not guaranteed.

Can I book a taxi with multiple child seats in France?Yes. With Taxibambino.com, you can request multiple age-appropriate seats when booking in advance.

Safety Isn’t Optional — It’s Essential

Traveling through France with children should be relaxed and enjoyable. While understanding the law is important, planning ahead is what truly ensures your family’s safety.

🚕 Book your taxi with child car seats in France via Taxibambino.com and travel with confidence, knowing your child’s safety is taken care of from the very first ride.