No, you cannot legally or safely get into an Uber without a car seat for a child who requires one. All 50 states have laws mandating the use of child restraint systems, including car seats and booster seats, based on a child's age, weight, and height. Uber's own policy requires riders to provide and properly install their own car seats for children. The only exception is Uber Car Seat, available in select cities like New York, which allows you to request a vehicle equipped with a car seat for a small fee.
The primary reason is safety. Standard seat belts are designed for adults and can cause severe internal injuries or fail to restrain a small child properly in a crash. Rideshare vehicles are not exempt from traffic laws. A driver can refuse the ride if you arrive without a car seat, as they could be held liable for a violation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provides clear guidelines on the types of seats needed at different stages of a child's development.
| Child's Age/Size | Recommended Seat Type | Key Safety Rationale |
|---|
| Infant to 2+ years | Rear-Facing Car Seat | Protects fragile neck and spinal cord in a crash. |
| 2-4 years (or outgrows rear-facing) | Forward-Facing Car Seat | Harness distributes crash forces across stronger body points. |
| 4-8+ years (or outgrows harness) | Booster Seat | Positions seat belt correctly on hips and chest, not abdomen/neck. |
| 8-12+ years (or 4'9" tall) | Seat Belt Alone | Belt fits properly when child's knees bend at seat edge. |
| All Ages | Back Seat | Safest place for children under 13. |
Planning ahead is crucial. If you're traveling, consider bringing a travel-friendly car seat or renting one from a car rental agency. For occasional needs, the Uber Car Seat option is worth checking for availability in your area. The inconvenience of carrying a seat is minimal compared to the catastrophic risk of traveling without one.
