When travelling to a new country, understanding local driving laws is key, especially when you're on the road with children. Every country has its safety standards for child passengers, and Switzerland is no different. Whether you're visiting for a family holiday or planning a scenic road trip through the Swiss Alps, knowing the car seat regulations isn’t just helpful, it’s necessary for your children’s safety and your peace of mind.
If you’re renting a car in Switzerland, you’ll need to be clear on which type of car seat your child requires and how to install it correctly. The rules may differ from what you're used to, so it's worth getting familiar with them before you arrive. To help you stay prepared and worry-free, we’ve broken down the key points you need to know before setting off.
Switzerland is well known for its strict safety regulations. The country has well-maintained roads, but safety remains a top priority, and that includes child car seat laws. These laws exist to protect children from serious injury or death in car accidents. A child’s body is not as strong or developed as an adult’s, so they need extra protection while travelling in a vehicle.
Using the correct car seat greatly reduces the risk of injury if a crash happens. Even though Switzerland is considered one of the safest countries in Europe for driving, accidents can still occur. This is why it’s essential to follow the car seat laws carefully, whether you’re driving your car or renting a car in Switzerland for your travels.
In Switzerland, all children under 12 years old or under 150 cm tall must use a child car seat or booster seat that meets European safety standards. This rule is based on both the child’s age and height. If your child is younger than 12, they are required to use a car seat or booster. However, if your child is older than 12 but still shorter than 150 cm, they must continue to use a special seat to stay protected. On the other hand, if your child reaches 150 cm in height before turning 12, they can stop using a child seat and start using the car’s regular seat belt.
The reason height is so important is that adult seat belts are not designed for small children. If a child under 150 cm uses a seat belt without a booster, the belt may sit too high across their stomach or neck, which can cause serious injuries in an accident. Booster seats help by lifting the child so the seat belt fits properly and safely across the shoulder and hips, just like it does for an adult.
When travelling in Switzerland, it’s important to choose the right type of car seat for your child. The type of seat you need depends on your child’s age, weight, and height. Swiss law also requires that all child seats meet European safety standards. Here’s a simple guide to the main types of child car seats:
Rear-facing seats are specially designed for babies and young toddlers. In Switzerland, it is strongly recommended that children ride rear-facing for as long as possible, but at the very least until they are 15 months old. Rear-facing seats provide the best protection for a child’s head, neck, and spine, especially in the event of a sudden stop or crash. These seats are usually suitable for children from birth up to about 13 kg, depending on the model. Some models allow rear-facing use up to 18 kg, which lets you keep your child safer for longer.
Once your child has outgrown the rear-facing seat, you can switch to a forward-facing car seat with a built-in harness. These seats are designed for children who weigh between 9 kg and 18 kg, or until they are around 4 years old. The harness in these seats holds your child securely in place, preventing too much movement in the event of an accident. This helps to reduce the risk of injury during a collision.
When your child has outgrown the forward-facing car seat, it’s time to move on to a booster seat. Booster seats are for older children who are not yet tall enough to use the car’s adult seat belt safely. A booster seat raises the child so that the seat belt fits properly across their shoulder and lap, rather than across the neck or stomach, which can be dangerous.
Children usually use booster seats from about 4 years old until they are 12 years old or 150 cm tall, whichever comes first. Booster cushions without backrests are still legal in Switzerland, but experts recommend using booster seats with backrests, as they offer extra protection, especially from side impacts.
In Switzerland, only approved car seats are allowed. Your child’s seat must have an ECE label, which proves it meets European safety regulations. There are two types of approved labels to look for:
Both types of seats are legal in Switzerland, but i-Size (R129) is safer and is becoming more popular. When you choose a car seat, always check for the orange ECE approval label to make sure it meets one of these recognised safety standards.
Choosing the right car seat is only the first step, using it correctly is just as important. Improper installation or use is a common cause of injury in car accidents, even when the seat itself meets all safety standards. To keep your child as safe as possible, follow these straightforward tips:
Not following car seat laws in Switzerland can result in serious legal and safety consequences. Drivers who don’t use proper child restraints may face fines issued by the police. Beyond financial penalties, there’s also the issue of liability. If your child isn’t secured and an accident happens, you may still be held legally responsible for their injuries, even if you weren’t the one who caused the crash. Additionally, ignoring these safety regulations might affect your travel or car insurance, potentially leading to denied coverage in the event of an injury.
When you rent a car, you can usually rent a car seat at the same time. Most rental companies offer car seats for different ages and sizes. However, these seats must still meet Swiss and European safety rules. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Switzerland is one of the best countries in Europe for road trips. The roads are clean, safe, and well-marked. Whether you’re visiting the mountains, the lakes, or charming cities like Zurich, Lucerne, and Geneva, driving is a great way to explore. If you’re travelling as a family, knowing the local driving rules is crucial. That includes understanding speed limits, tolls, and, of course, car seat laws. If you’d like to learn more about driving in Switzerland, visit What You Need to Know to Drive Through Switzerland with Ease
Planning a family road trip in Switzerland? Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the country at your own pace. With Final Rentals, you can ensure a smooth, stress-free experience—complete with the right car seat to keep your children safe.
Want to feel even more prepared? What You Should Know Before Getting Behind the Wheel in Switzerland.
Yes, if your car seat meets European safety standards (ECE R44/04 or ECE R129). If it doesn’t, you may need to rent a certified car seat.
It’s the law, so you must ensure your child uses the seat. Try to make the experience fun with toys or games. Comfort is also key, make sure the seat fits well.
No, the car seat law applies to all private cars in Switzerland. Exceptions are rare and usually only apply to emergency vehicles.
Travelling with children can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences. Exploring Switzerland by car lets you see beautiful places at your own pace, from the snowy Alps to the clear lakes and green valleys. But safety should always come first. By understanding and following the car seat laws in Switzerland, you’ll keep your family safe and avoid fines or legal problems.
Choose the right car seat, install it correctly, and enjoy your trip with peace of mind. When you’re ready to start your Swiss adventure, rent a car in Switzerland with Final Rentals and travel safely and comfortably with your loved ones!
