Starting November 1st, Hong Kong private cars must use child safety seats | Parents should know how to avoid a $2000 fine

The Hong Kong government today reminded local and cross-border private car drivers that, starting November 1 , all private cars operating in Hong Kong carrying child passengers must use child restraint devices (CRDs) , such as child safety seats, to enhance passenger safety. Violators may be fined up to $2,000.

Under the new regulations, unless a child under the age of 8 is 1.35 meters tall or taller, they must use a compliant CRD (Car Relay Detector) whether sitting in the front or back seat. Passengers aged 8 or older, or those 1.35 meters tall or taller , must use a CRD or wear an adult seatbelt. Police can issue a fixed penalty notice of **$230** to drivers who violate the rules, and serious cases may be referred to the courts, with a maximum fine of $2,000.

The government advises parents to prioritize the applicable height and weight range of child safety seats when purchasing them, and to check for markings indicating compliance with international or national safety standards . Installation must be performed according to the instruction manual. If in doubt, parents can contact the manufacturer or retailer to ensure compliance with Hong Kong law.

In addition to traditional child safety seats, there are also portable CRDs available on the market, such as seat belt adjusters, wearable safety vests, or foldable booster seats. However, these products lack side protection pads and backrests , so their protection in side collisions is relatively weak, and parents should choose them with caution.

Since February this year, the government has strengthened its publicity and public education efforts. The Transport Department, together with the police, the Education Bureau, the Information Services Department, RTHK, the Road Safety Council, and the Consumer Council, has been promoting the legal requirements to parents through websites, infographics, videos, media, and social media platforms. The Transport Department has also repeatedly reminded parents to purchase compliant products as early as possible after Easter, before children's product expos, and before the start of the school year.

Parents who have not yet prepared a child safety seat should take immediate action to avoid legal penalties and, most importantly, to ensure their child's safety every time they ride in a car.

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