Is It Mandatory to Use a Child Car Seat in Taxis in Paris?
- tscheiman
- May 21
- 3 min read
Planning a family trip to Paris? Learn if car seats are mandatory in taxis, understand French regulations, and discover how to book a taxi with a child seat in Paris.
Is It Mandatory to Use a Child Car Seat in Taxis in Paris?
Paris is one of the most beautiful cities to explore as a family. Whether you're hopping between landmarks or transferring from the airport to your hotel, safety is always top of mind—especially when traveling with young children. One of the most common questions parents ask before arriving: Do I need a car seat when taking a taxi in Paris?
The short answer is: yes, in most cases. French traffic law is clear when it comes to child safety in vehicles, but there are a few exceptions and practical options you should know about.
Understanding the Law in France
In France, children under 10 years old must travel in an approved child restraint system that is appropriate for their height and weight. This applies to all private vehicles and, yes, taxis too.
However, there is a catch: licensed taxis in Paris are technically exempt from this law. That means they are allowed to transport children without a car seat, especially within city limits. Still, this exemption doesn't mean it's the safest choice. Most Parisian parents and travel-savvy visitors choose to use a car seat regardless of the exemption.
When you're riding with a child under 10, the best approach is to plan ahead and secure a child seat – especially if you're traveling long distances, like airport transfers from Charles de Gaulle or Orly.
Booking a Taxi with a Child Seat in Paris
If you want peace of mind during your stay, it's a great idea to book a taxi that offers a child seat in advance. While most taxis hailed on the street won’t carry one, there are reliable ways to arrange a safe ride for your family.
One of the easiest options is using TaxiBambino.com, a service that connects families with taxis offering infant seats, toddler car seats, or booster seats depending on your needs. You simply enter your travel details and select the right seat – perfect for airport pickups, day trips, or evening outings.
Some ride-hailing apps also allow you to request a child seat, but availability is often limited and unreliable during peak hours.
Tips for Families Visiting Paris
Traveling in Paris with kids can be magical if you prepare in advance. Here are a few personal tips that have worked well for many families:
Use services that let you book child seats ahead of time. Taxis from TaxiBambino.com are a solid option.
If you're staying for more than a few days and plan to move around often, consider bringing a lightweight travel booster or renting a car seat locally.
For short inner-city journeys, the Paris metro and buses are stroller-friendly and usually more convenient than taxis during rush hour.
Final Thoughts
While French law allows some flexibility for taxis, your child’s safety shouldn’t be left to chance. Booking a taxi with a car seat in Paris is simple if you plan ahead, and it adds an extra layer of comfort to your family trip.
So is it mandatory? Technically, not always. But is it recommended? Absolutely.
For more travel tips and safe taxi options with child seats in cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, or Rome, visit our homepage at TaxiBambino.com.
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