Crime & Safety

Ask a Trooper: Where Does the Law Draw the Line on Booster Seats?

Public Information Officer Lt. J. Paul Vance of the state police provides answers to your law enforcement questions.


This story was written and reported by Field Editor Jayme Kunze.

Reader Question:
  What's the law regarding car seats and booster seats and when can children ride in front seats? I have a seven- and nine-year-old, and they ask when they can be out of booster seats and sit in front.  I have heard all sorts of answers, but would like it clarified once and for all.

Response from Lt. J. Paul Vance: Any person who transports a child six years of age and under or weighing less than sixty pounds in a motor vehicle on the highways of this state shall provide and require the child to use a child restraint system approved pursuant to regulations adopted by the DMV. 

Any person who transports a child seven years of age or older and weighing sixty or more pounds in a motor vehicle on the highways of this state shall provide and require the child to use a seat safety belt. 

Vehicle manufacturers suggest that children 12 and under sit in the back seat of a motor vehicle due to the impact of an airbag on a child.  

No state statute addresses children sitting in the front seat.


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