How old should a child be to ride in the car without a carseat or what is the weight the child should be?

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Answer

This varies from state to state as far as the law goes, but the recommendation is 8 and 80. 8 years old and 80 pounds. Of course they go into a booster (preferably one with a high back and restraint guides). Another indication that they are ready for a regular seat belt is when the bend of their knees go over the seat (you know, when they can sit with their legs bent, not straight out). The safest bet is 8 and 80.

Answer

Although the 8 and 80lbs is a good guideline many kids don't fit into that criteria very well. So here is a 5-step test that makes things more clear. Once they can pass this 5-step test (no matter what age. Many kids at age 10 still need a booster) they can ride in a seat belt only.

1. Does the child sit all the way back against the auto seat?

2. Do the child�s knees bend comfortably at the edge of the auto seat?

3. Is the lap belt touching the top of the thighs, not the tummy?

4. Is the shoulder belt centered on the shoulder and chest?

5. Can the child sit like this the whole trip?

HTH!

Jen E AKA Carseatmom- Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician and mom to 3 in seats!

First answer by anonymous. Last edit by ID0000000000. Question popularity: 108 [recommend question]

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