Seat belts and child seats in France (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: Seat belts are compulsory where a seat has one. Children under 10 must be in an approved child restraint and may not ride in the front seat except in set cases.

RuleWhat applies
Seat belt compulsory in front seatsPassenger carsYes [1]
Seat belt compulsory in rear seatsPassenger carsYes [1]
Child restraint required untilPassenger carsChildren under 10 must be secured in an approved child restraint suited to their size and weight, unless their build suits the seat belt or they have a medical exemption. [2]
Children in the front seatPassenger carsCarrying a child under 10 on a front seat is prohibited, with exceptions: rear-facing restraint with the front airbag deactivated, no rear seat or no belts in the rear, or rear seats unusable or occupied by other restrained children under 10. [3]
Rear-facing child seat in front with active airbagPassenger carsNo [3]

Notes

  • The duty applies where the seat is fitted with a belt. Exemptions include a medical certificate and taxi drivers on duty.

Sources

  1. Légifrance: Article R412-1 - Code de la route (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Légifrance: Article R412-2 - Code de la route (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  3. Légifrance: Article R412-3 - Code de la route (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.