Overview

• German law requires children under 12 years old and shorter than 150 cm to travel in approved child seats matched to their size and weight in any seating position with a seatbelt.
• Failing to use a suitable child seat or securing one incorrectly can incur fines from €30 to €75 and one point on the driving record.
• ADAC recommends keeping children in rear-facing seats until at least their second birthday to maximize protection in frontal collisions.
• Common mistakes include using seats that no longer fit a child’s growth, loose or twisted harness belts, and booster cushions without backrests.
• Unsecured items in the cabin can become dangerous projectiles in a crash, so experts advise regular seat inspections to prevent wear and ensure proper belt routing.