California Seat Belt & Child Safety Laws
Seat belts and child safety seats save thousands of lives each year. California has some of the strictest occupant protection laws in the country, and violations are primary offenses — meaning officers can pull you over for seat belt violations alone.
Seat Belt Laws
All occupants of a vehicle must wear a seat belt. The driver is responsible for ensuring all passengers under 16 are buckled. Wearing a seat belt incorrectly (under the arm, behind the back) does not satisfy the legal requirement and significantly reduces protection. Seat belts must be worn as designed — across the shoulder and chest.
Child Restraint Requirements
Children under 2 years old and under 40 lbs must be in a rear-facing child seat. Children under 8 must be secured in a federally-approved car seat or booster seat in the back seat. Children may move to an adult seat belt when they are 8 years old or 4'9" tall. Never place a rear-facing child seat in front of an active airbag.
Key Rules at a Glance
- Who must wear seat belts: All occupants — driver is responsible for those under 16
- Rear-facing seat requirement: Children under 2 years and under 40 lbs
- Child safety seat age: Required until age 8 or 4'9" tall
- Rear-facing seat & airbag: Never place in front of an active airbag