Car Seats in Singapore: Rules and Regulations

Car seats in Singapore are mandatory for all children under the age of 8. This article contains practical advice and insights into the laws governing the use of child seats and baby capsules in Singapore and provides useful information on how you can ensure that you fully protect the safety of your baby and children while transporting them by car or taxi.

The laws governing car seats in Singapore

• All children under the age of 8 should be securely fastened in a government approved car seat, booster seat or child restraint when traveling in a vehicle, whether this is their parent’s vehicle, or not. Any drivers who transport children without suitable car seats and restraints in Singapore will be fined $120 SGD and will be awarded three points on their driving license.
• The only people exempt from this law are taxi drivers who cannot be reasonably expected to carry a variety of different child seats and restraints. Ideally you should take your own seat with you when transporting a child in a taxi. Alternatively you should ensure that your child remains still throughout the journey.
• Children who are below the age of 8 but who are too large to sit in a car seat may use a booster seat. The seat must boost the child to the height at which they can use adult seat belts safely and securely.

Using car seats in Singapore

The type of seat you will need will depend upon the age and size of the child that you will be transporting. However, there are a number of basic steps that you should follow in order to ensure that your child is transported safely at all times.

• Ensure that you use the right type of seat or restraint for your child’s weight and height. Don’t be tempted to purchase a car seat that is for slightly older children so that it will last longer. This will not adequately protect your child during transit.
• Make sure that you install the car seat or restraint properly and that it fits your car. Never use a seat that is not fully secure.
• Position your babies and children in rearward facing seats for as long as you can as these offer the highest levels of protection.
• Never use car seats on seats that are facing an airbag as this is very, very dangerous.

Recommended seat types by age and weight

In addition to purchasing a suitable car seat or restraint you may also need the following:

• Sun shades and UV protectors for car windows to protect your baby’s delicate eyes.
• A mirror so that you can position near any babies who are traveling a rear facing capsule as this will allow you to observe them from the driver’s seat.
• A head support for very young babies.
• A ‘baby in car’ sign or notice for the back window.

Please never overlook the laws and risk the safety of your precious children. Car seats in Singapore are necessary when transporting your children. Take a look at our car safety checklist for further advice.

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