Requirements guide
Understand age, height, weight, and seat belt fit.
Read requirementsState law page
California Booster Seat Laws & Requirements (2026)
California requires children under 8 to be secured in an appropriate child passenger restraint system in the rear seat, with a 4'9" seat-belt exception.
| Field | California snapshot |
|---|---|
| Age requirement | Under 8 in an appropriate child passenger restraint system; ages 8 through 15 must be in an appropriate restraint or safety belt. |
| Height requirement | A child under 8 who is at least 4'9" may use a safety belt instead of a child restraint system. |
| Weight requirement | Under 2 must ride rear-facing unless 40+ lb or 40+ inches; otherwise follow manufacturer height/weight limits. |
| Fine / penalty | Base fine commonly cited as $100 first violation and $250 subsequent; local penalty assessments may increase total cost. |
| Last checked | 2026-07-23 |
| Verification level | Official state source verified |
| Under 2 | Rear-facing unless 40+ lb or 40+ inches |
| Under 8 | Appropriate child passenger restraint system in rear seat |
| Under 8 and 4'9"+ | May use a properly fitted safety belt |
| Ages 8-15 | Appropriate child restraint or safety belt required |
| Fine | Base fine commonly cited as $100 first, $250 subsequent |
Sources
Law and source links
Agency source: https://www.ots.ca.gov/child-passenger-safety/
Statute/source text: California Vehicle Code sections 27360 and 27360.5
Safety guidance
Even when California law allows a seat belt, NHTSA, CDC, and AAP guidance may still recommend a booster until the vehicle belt fits properly.
Age guide
See when children typically start and stop using boosters.
Read age guideForward-facing guide
Know when to move from harnessed seat to booster.
Read transition guide