Its not illegal that I'm aware of I do it as there not enough seats usually for short distances and not on highways. You may want to check what your booster seat manual says(because I believe if you don't follow the manufacturers instructions thats illegal) I believe some of them say don't use in front seat. Make sure you put the seat all the way back. I just realized you said the airbag can be turned off then that is totally fine just double check the booster seat but I'm pretty sure the manual I saw said with active airbag.