WASHINGTON, D.C., USA — Child seat rules and regulations are always changing, making it hard for anyone to stay up to date on the proper protocol for car seats.
If you're confused about safety regulations, what laws are in place for car seats or are just looking for some resources to help answer your burning questions, this will help.
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Child restraint laws for DC, Maryland and Virginia
DC Child Restraint Laws
- Children under 8 y/o must be in car/booster seat
- Children under 13 y/o must ride in the back seat
- All children should ride rear facing until 2 y/o
- Follow manufacturers weight and height specifications
- Fines vary across jurisdictions
Maryland Child Restraint Laws
- Children under 8 y/o must ride in an appropriate child restraint unless the child is 4ft, 9 inches or taller
- Children under 13 y/o must ride in the back seat
- children 8 to 16 y/o must be secured in a vehicle seat belt
Virginia Child Restraint Laws
- All children must ride rear facing until 2 y/o or as long as the safety seat manufacturer allows
- Forward facing car seats shouldn't be used until the child is 1 y/o, weighs 20 pounds and has reached the weight and height limits specified by the manufacturer of the rear facing seat
- Keep child in booster seat until the child is 8 y/o and 4ft, 9 inches tall
- The child must be at least 4 ft, 9 inches and 8 y/o
Child seat Resources in DC, Maryland and Virginia
Here are some resources that will help make sure you are properly securing your child into their car seats and proper car seat installation.
DC Resources
Maryland Resources
Virginia Resources
