Child Restraint Systems

General Guidelines for Child Restraint Systems (Car seats)

As always, check your state requirements for additional information or numbers that are different from what is shown here. Be familiar with these numbers even if you do not have children. You never know when you may be transporting younger passengers.

Infant to 1 year old Weight up to 20 pounds Approved car seat placed in rear (or middle mini-van) seat. Child seat should be facing the rear. Toddler 1-5 years old Weight 20—40 pounds Approved car seat placed in the back (or middle minivan) seat. Car seat should face forward. Child 5—8 years old Weight at 40—80 pounds Approved booster seat used along with standard seatbelts. 8 years old and up ** Weight over 80 pounds Standard seatbelts. Do not sit in front seat unless it is unavoidable.

**Check to see if your state has minimum height restrictions for seatbelt use. Age and weight may not matter if height restrictions are not met.