In a few occasions, you’re not required by law to wear a seat belt.
You don’t need to wear a seat belt if you’re:
- a driver who is reversing, or supervising a learner driver who is reversing
- in a vehicle being used for police, fire and rescue services
- a passenger in a trade vehicle and you’re investigating a fault
- driving a goods vehicle on deliveries that is travelling no more than 50 metres between stops
- a licensed taxi driver who is ‘plying for hire’ or carrying passengers
You might also be exempt due to a medical reason. If your doctor says you don’t have to wear a seat belt, you will receive a ‘Certificate of Exemption from Compulsory Seat Belt Wearing’ (Opens in new window). You’ll need to keep this in your vehicle and show it to the police if you’re stopped.
If you’re pregnant, you’re still required to wear a seat belt unless your doctor says otherwise. The same rule applies if you’re disabled.
It is important to inform your vehicle insurer if you’re exempt from wearing a seat belt.
If you’re vehicle doesn’t have seat belts, for example it’s a classic car and was originally made without seat belts, you are not allowed to carry any children under 3 years old in it. Children over 3 are only allowed to sit in the back seats.