Booster Seat Guidelines | Booster Seat Information


booster seat guildelines

There are some important booster seat guidelines to consider when transitioning your child from convertible car seats. Most children will outgrow their convertible car seats around age four.

In general, your child is ready to make the move to a booster seat when she is four years of age, at least forty pounds and has grown too tall for her car seat.

She should continue using the booster until age eight.

Most states mandate the use of booster car seats for young children and impose a fine for not doing so. Specific state laws vary on required booster seat guidelines usage – age, height and for how long they must be used.

For specific state by state requirements, visit The Governor’s Highway Safety Association.

Booster car seats are necessary to keep your child safe. Prior to about age eight or when your child reaches a height of 4’9″, seat belts do not fit properly and can actually cause serious injury in a collision.

Booster seats come in two general types: those with high backs and backless. High back booster seats should be used in vehicles that lack head rests or have low seat backs.

Backless booster seats can be used in vehicles with head rests or high seat backs. Both types are safe and achieve the goal of safely positioning the vehicle’s seat belt for your child.

To Ensure Proper Usage:

  • Refer to the user manual to ensure proper installation
  • Seat children in the backseat and away from air bags
  • When seated, verify proper placement of the seat belt, with the lap belt positioned across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt across the chest

More Child Car Seat Safety Resources:

Safe Seats 4 Kids

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

American Academy of Pediatrics

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

What does your State Law say about car seats?

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