---
title: What are the car seat laws in the US?
description: The NHTSA recommends using a car seat for as long as your child fits within the manufacturer's guidelines. Transition to a booster seat when appropriate.
---

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# What are the car seat laws in the US?

The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) recommends keeping your child in a car seat for as long as possible, as long as the child fits within the manufacturer's height and weight requirements.

Use the NHTSA [car seat recommendations for children by age](https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/car-seats-and-booster-seats#35091) as a guide. Children should stay in a car seat and transition to a booster seat when the vehicle seat belts fit properly. This is usually when a child reaches about 4 feet 9 inches in height and is between 8 and 12 years old. Most children will not fit in a seat belt alone until they are 10 to 11 years old. For more information, check out this [blog](https://www.babyquip.com/blog/car-seat-safety-laws?hsLang=en)for state-by-state laws and guidelines.

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