Seat belts: who must buckle up in a car?

Article 172 requires drivers and passengers to use seat belts in covered vehicles fitted with them; the driver must check that the restraint devices remain efficient.

The requirement covers every occupant

A seat belt is not only a precaution for the driver. Article 172 requires the driver and passengers in the vehicle classes specified by law to use the belts whenever the vehicle is moving, if the vehicle is equipped with the required systems. In a car, buckle up in the rear seats too. A short journey or slow traffic does not remove the obligation while the vehicle is moving.

For example, in a car with rear belts, an adult sitting in the back must buckle up just like someone in front. Children are also covered by the separate restraint rule: below 1.50 m they need an approved system suitable for their weight. Do not use only an adult belt when a child is still within the height threshold for a child seat.

The driver checks that the system works

The law requires the driver to make sure the restraint devices remain efficient. Before travelling, check that each belt extends and retracts correctly, the buckle fastens and there are no visible cuts or damage. A belt that locks or is worn may not protect as designed; have it inspected instead of improvising a repair.

The driver should also make sure occupants can reach and fasten their belts without obstruction. Whether the car is rented, company-owned or borrowed, checking the devices before departure remains important. Quiz Patente Ufficiale lets you review chapters, B quizzes, explanations and mistakes to reinforce the rules; it does not inspect a car or replace maintenance.

Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps review B rules through chapters, quizzes, explanations and error review; it does not inspect or repair seat belts.