Car Seat Safety Guide

Find the right car seat type for your child based on their age, weight, and height. Based on AAP and NHTSA guidelines.

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Car Seat Stages Overview

1

Rear-Facing Infant Seat

Age: Birth to 12-15 months
Weight: 4-35 lbs (varies by seat)

Infant-only car seats come with a base that stays in the car and a carrier that snaps in and out. Convenient for carrying a sleeping baby.

2

Rear-Facing Convertible Seat

Age: Birth to 2-4+ years
Weight: Up to 40-50 lbs rear-facing (varies by seat)

The AAP recommends keeping children rear-facing as long as possible, until they reach the maximum weight or height allowed by the seat. Many convertible seats now allow rear-facing up to 40-50 lbs.

3

Forward-Facing with Harness

Age: 2-5+ years (after outgrowing rear-facing)
Weight: 20-65 lbs (varies by seat)

Once your child outgrows the rear-facing limits, switch to forward-facing with a 5-point harness. Use the top tether strap — it reduces head movement by 4-6 inches in a crash.

4

Booster Seat

Age: 4-8+ years
Weight: 40-100 lbs (varies by seat)

Booster seats position the vehicle's seat belt correctly on the child's body. The lap belt should lie across the upper thighs (not the stomach), and the shoulder belt should cross the chest and shoulder (not the neck).

5

Seat Belt Only

Age: 8-12+ years (when belt fits properly)
Weight: Over 80 lbs and at least 4'9" tall

Children can use the vehicle seat belt alone when they pass the 5-step seat belt fit test. Most children are ready between ages 8-12.

Always check your specific car seat's manual for exact weight and height limits. Car seat laws vary by state. When in doubt, visit a free car seat inspection station — find one at NHTSA.gov.

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