A Parent's Guide to Buying and Using Booster Seats

When do you use a booster seat?
After your child outgrows the child safety seat.

Children who have outgrown child safety seats should be properly restrained in booster seats until they are at least 8 years old, unless they are 4’9” tall.

- National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration

REAR FACING SEATS in the back seat from birth to at least 1 year old and at least 20 pounds.

BOOSTER SEATS in the back seat from about age 4 to at least age 8, unless 4’9” tall.

FORWARD-FACING TODDLER SEATS in the back seat from age 1 and 20 pounds to about age 4 and 40 pounds.

SAFETY BELTS at age 8 and older or taller than 4’9”. All children age 12 and under should ride in the back seat.