can taxis provide car seats

[MadelynMarie]

Generally, no, you cannot rely on a taxi to provide a car seat. You are almost always expected to bring your own appropriate child restraint system. This is the standard practice across most cities in the United States. While taxi companies are often exempt from the strict car seat laws that apply to private vehicles, the legal responsibility for your child's safety ultimately falls on you, the parent or guardian. Rideshare services like Uber and Uber Car Seat are exceptions in some markets, but availability is limited and requires advance planning.

The primary reason is liability. Taxi drivers are not trained to properly install various car seat models, and an incorrectly installed seat can be more dangerous than no seat at all. Furthermore, the logistics of storing multiple sizes of seats to fit children of different ages and weights is impractical for most taxi fleets.

Your best course of action is to be prepared. Bring your own car seat. Many are designed to be lightweight and portable for travel. If you're flying, you can typically check the car seat for free with your airline. Alternatively, you can rent a car seat from your car rental company if you're also renting a vehicle.

The table below outlines the typical legal stance and options in major U.S. cities:

City/Service	Car Seat Law for Taxis	Uber/Lyft Policy	Alternative Options
New York City	Exempt from car seat laws	Drivers can refuse riders with young children and no seat	Uber Car Seat available in select areas (request in app)
Chicago	Exempt; parents are responsible	Policy similar to taxis; driver discretion	Use public transit (buses/trains) which are exempt
Los Angeles	Exempt from laws, but recommended	No provision; must provide your own	Rent a car with a car seat included
San Francisco	Exempt; safety is rider's duty	No service-provided seats	Use a travel-specific car seat like the Cosco Scenera Next
Washington D.C.	Taxis are exempt from requirements	Must bring your own seat	Some baby gear rental companies offer car seat delivery

The safest choice is never to compromise. If you cannot bring a seat, consider using a service that guarantees one or opt for public transportation where exemptions are clearer.

[DeLandon]

As a mom of two, I never get in a cab without our own car seats. It's just not a risk I'm willing to take. I treat it like diapers or wipes—it's an essential item I have to pack. We have a lightweight, inexpensive one we use just for travel and taxis. It’s a hassle, sure, but it’s non-negotiable for my kids' safety. I’ve heard of Uber offering seats in big cities, but I wouldn't bet my child's life on one being available.

[AlejandroDella]

From a legal standpoint, taxis are often granted exemptions from standard child passenger safety laws. However, this exemption shifts the burden of responsibility to you, the passenger. If you are involved in an accident, the fact that the taxi was legally exempt may not protect you from civil liability if your child is injured. The law may not require it, but physics certainly does. Always err on the side of caution and provide your own certified child restraint.