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Frequently Asked Questions

Seat Belts

What is the law relating to seat belts?

Read the Highway Code for a summary of the main legal requirements for wearing of seat belts.

Are there any exceptions to the wearing of seat belts?

Yes. Hackney Carriage taxi drivers are exempt from wearing seat belts while on duty (whether they have a passenger or not). Private Hire taxi drivers are only exempt when carrying a fare-paying passenger. They must wear a seat belt at all other times. Some of the most common exemptions for people who are 14 years and over are:

  • Delivery people such as milk float drivers.
  • Motorists reversing.
  • Emergency vehicle staff in certain circumstances.
  • People holding a Medical Exemption Certificate. (A seat belt Medical Exemption Certificate is only issued by a doctor).

Ask the Police - Frequently Asked Questions Database

To access an extensive bank of police based frequently asked questions, visit the Ask the Police website.

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