Car seat rental in Portugal

13, Mar 2022
Car seat rental in Portugal

Car seat rental in Portugal is necessary whenever you plan to visit a city or travel through Portugal in your own or rented car. In addition to the obligation imposed by Portuguese law, car seats are the most important safety measure for transporting children. The correct use of car seats effectively contributes to reducing the probability of death or serious injury in the event of an accident.

Car seat rental in Portugal – Age required

Portuguese law establishes the obligation to use a car seat for all children from birth until reaching a height of 135 cm or age 12 years. So, if you plan to visit mainland Portugal, you can rent a car seat, and it will be delivered and later collected at the locations you indicate (check this information).

Car seat rental in Portugal – Fines

The obligation to use a car seat to transport children is described in article 55 of the Portuguese Highway Code. Thus, the breach of this article is considered in Portugal a serious offence, which is sanctioned by a fine, which can vary between € 120 and € 600 for each child transported that does not comply with the law.

What types of car seats are available in Portugal

In Portugal, car seats are classified into groups. Thus, the following groups are defined:

Car seat in the front seat

Car seats must be installed in the back seat of the car. In the event of an accident, the likelihood of more serious injuries is lower when the child is in the rear seat.

However, in case of extreme need, car seats can be used in the front seat of the car.

This can only happen in the following situations:

  • If the child is under 3 years of age and transport is carried out using a rearward-facing restraint system, in which case the front airbag in the passenger’s seat (airbag) cannot be activated;
  • If the child is 3 years of age or older and the car does not have seat belts in the rear seat, or does not have this seat.

Here it is extremely important to deactivate the airbag. In the event of an accident, if the passenger seat airbag is activated, the child will be in danger.

Important note

In cars that are not equipped with seat belts, the transport of children under 3 years of age is prohibited.

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