How are you allowed to transport a five-year-old child in your car?

You answered correctly. According to German traffic law, children under 12 years old or shorter than 150 cm must be transported in a suitable and approved child restraint system, such as a child seat with a test mark. Using only the car’s standard three-point seat belt or a waist belt is not allowed for a five-year-old, as these do not provide sufficient protection. The child seat must be appropriate for the child’s age, weight, and size, and must carry a valid approval mark (such as ECE R44/04 or ECE R129). This rule is designed to maximize safety for young passengers, reducing the risk of injury in the event of a crash. Always check that the child seat is properly installed and that the child is securely fastened.