Rear-Facing Car Seat Laws by State
Rear-facing car seat rules vary by state — most require rear-facing until age 1 or 2. Here is the national picture and how to check your state.
Rear-facing car seat rules vary by state — most require rear-facing until age 1 or 2. Here is the national picture and how to check your state.
Rear-facing is the safest position for young children. State laws set a legal minimum: about 24 states require rear-facing until at least age 2 (including California, Colorado, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington and D.C.); others require it until age 1 or 20 lbs; a few have no specific rear-facing rule and simply require an appropriate restraint.
Even where the law allows forward-facing at 1 or 2, pediatric and safety groups recommend rear-facing until the seat’s height or weight limit. Look up your exact rule on your state page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old must a child be to ride rear-facing?
Most states require rear-facing until age 1 or 2 (or 20-40 lbs). About half of states now require age 2.
Can I rear-face longer than the law requires?
Yes — safety experts recommend rear-facing until the seat’s height or weight limit, even if the law allows switching earlier.
Where is the front seat allowed for a rear-facing child?
Never — rear-facing seats must never be placed in front of an active airbag.