Do You Know the Rules for Transporting Children in Portugal?



And how to choose the most suitable car seat? In this article, we’ll answer these questions and share some tips to help you travel safely and with peace of mind.



Legislation on Child Transport in Portugal



In Portugal, the transport of children by car is regulated by Article 55 of the Highway Code.

According to this law, children up to 12 years of age and under 135 cm in height must be transported using a child restraint system (CRS) that is approved and suitable for their size and weight.



Children must travel in the back seat.

They may only travel in the front seat if:



the vehicle has no rear seat or seat belts,



they are aged 3 or over, or



if they are under 3 years old, in a rear-facing seat with the airbag deactivated.



Approved Car Seat Standards in Europe



There are currently two regulations in force: ECE R44/04 and ECE R129 (i-Size).



ECE R44/04:

Classifies car seats into five groups (0, 0+, I, II, III) based on the child’s weight.

This regulation will remain valid until 1 September 2024, allowing continued use of seats already purchased.



ECE R129 (i-Size):

Based on the height of the child and requires rear-facing travel until at least 15 months of age.



Independent Car Seat Tests



To choose a safe car seat, you can consult independent crash tests that evaluate quality and safety, such as ADAC and the Plus Test.



ADAC:

A German automobile organisation that performs frontal and side impact tests at various speeds and angles, evaluating five aspects:

safety, installation and usability, ergonomics, toxic materials, and handling and cleaning.

Scores range from 0 to 5.5, with results closer to zero being better.



Plus Test:

A Swedish voluntary certification that measures neck strain in frontal collisions.



These tests complement — but do not replace — official homologation standards.



Isofix: A Safe Fixing System



Isofix is a car seat attachment system that eliminates the need for the car’s seat belt.

It consists of two anchor points on the base of the car seat that clip into metal hooks located between the vehicle’s seat and backrest.



Some models also include a third anchor point, which can be a top tether strap or a support leg.



Isofix makes installation simpler and safer, significantly reducing the risk of incorrect fitting.



Car Seat Groups



Car seats are divided into groups according to the child’s weight or height:



Group 0 (up to 87 cm):

For newborns and babies up to about 12–18 months. Must be rear-facing.



Group 0+ I (up to 105 cm):

For children from birth up to around 4 years.

Rear-facing is mandatory until 15 months, after which it can face either direction — though rear-facing remains safer in a frontal collision.

These seats may use a five-point harness or impact shield.



Groups II & III (125–135 cm):

For children aged 4 to 12 years or up to 135 cm in height.

Use the vehicle’s seat belt and include a high backrest and headrest for additional protection.



Rear-Facing Travel



Rear-facing travel means that the car seat is installed opposite to the direction of travel.

This is the safest way for children to travel, especially in the first few years, as it reduces impact on the head, neck and spine in the event of an accident.



The i-Size regulation requires children to travel rear-facing until 15 months, but it is recommended to extend this position up to 4 years or longer, depending on the child’s height and the seat’s specifications.



Safety Tips for Travelling



Ensure the car seat is correctly installed and that the child is properly fastened. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Avoid second-hand seats, as they may be damaged or outdated.



Do not leave loose objects inside the car — store them in the boot or secure them, as they can become projectiles during sudden braking.



Avoid bulky clothing that interferes with the harness fit. Use blankets over the straps instead.



Never leave children alone in the car and make regular stops during long journeys so they can stretch, eat and drink.



Choose high-back seats, which offer better comfort and safety.



Travelling with your children can be a fun and rewarding experience when you take the right precautions.

With these tips, you’ll ensure a safer and more relaxed journey for everyone.

Safe travels!



References



Código da Estrada (CE) – Article 55. Diário da República nº 169/2013, Série I de 2013-09-03.



What is the ISOFIX system and how can parents use it? Maxi-Cosi™ – Car Seats, Pushchairs and More.