Car Seat Laws in Istanbul, Turkey: What Parents Need to Know About Taxis, Rental Cars and Safe Travel with Kids

Traveling with kids in Istanbul is a wonderful experience — the city is vibrant, rich in culture, and full of surprises at every corner. But as a parent, I know that transportation safety comes first. Whether you’re booking a taxi, renting a car, or using your own vehicle, understanding Turkey’s car seat laws is key to ensuring your children are protected during the journey.

Here's everything I’ve learned while traveling in Istanbul with my little ones — plus how Taxibambino in Istanbul can help you find safe, child-friendly transportation.

What Does Turkish Law Say About Car Seats?

In Turkey, child car seat laws are relatively strict compared to many countries. According to Turkish traffic law, children under 150 cm in height and under 36 kg in weight must use an appropriate child restraint system (CRS) when traveling in private vehicles.

Children are not allowed in the front seat unless they are older than 10 years and meet size and weight requirements. These rules apply to all private cars and rental vehicles. (source – Turkey Ministry of Interior)

While enforcement varies, especially in taxis, the law is in place to protect children — and not following it can lead to fines and unnecessary risks.

What About Taxis in Istanbul?

Here’s where it gets a bit tricky for traveling families. Taxis in Istanbul are not legally required to carry or use child car seats, which means most standard yellow cabs won’t have one available. This makes spontaneous rides stressful if you have toddlers or young children.

That’s why I always book in advance through Taxibambino’s Istanbul service, which lets me reserve a taxi or private car with a properly installed child seat. Whether I need a baby capsule, toddler seat, or booster, they match the right seat to my child’s age and weight.

It’s the easiest way to avoid the “do I risk it or not?” dilemma at the curb after a long flight.

Renting a Car in Istanbul with a Car Seat

If you're planning to explore Istanbul or the nearby coastlines with a rental car, you'll need to ensure the vehicle is equipped with a certified child seat. Most major rental agencies in Istanbul offer CRS options — but in my experience, you really have to book the seat well in advance and double-check compatibility and safety certifications.

For peace of mind, I recommend using Taxibambino’s Istanbul car rental with child seat, which partners with vetted providers offering high-quality, compliant car seats. That way, you skip the guesswork and can hit the road as soon as you land.

Private Vehicles and Resident Families

If you live in Istanbul or are visiting friends and using their car, the same child seat rules apply. Make sure the seat is ECE R44/04 or i-Size compliant, securely installed, and suitable for your child's size. Fines aside, traffic in Istanbul can be chaotic, and a good seat is your best line of defense in unpredictable driving conditions.

When visiting family, I always ask them in advance what equipment they have — and if needed, I arrange a seat via a local provider or pack my own travel booster seat.

Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead for Safer, Easier Travel in Istanbul

Istanbul is an unforgettable city to explore as a family — but don’t let car seat confusion get in the way. Whether you're arriving at IST or SAW airport, heading to Sultanahmet, or venturing out to the Bosphorus, making sure your child is safely and legally seated is one of the most important things you can do.

With Taxibambino in Istanbul, you can book taxis, private drivers, or rental cars — all equipped with the right child seat, tailored to your family’s needs. No stress. No compromises. Just safe, smooth travel for you and your kids.