Washington Car Seat and Booster Seat Laws

Rear-Facing Car Seat

Law states no preference.

Car Seat

Children ages 7 and under who are less than 4' 9" tall must be properly restrained in an appropriate child safety seat.

Booster Seat

Children ages 7 and under who are less than 4' 9" tall must be properly restrained in an appropriate child safety seat.

Seat Belt

• Children ages 8 to 15 or those under age 8 who are taller than 4' 9" must be restrained regardless of seating position.
• If a seating position is equipped with lap belts only, children weighing more than 40 pounds do not need to use a child safety seat.
• Children ages 7 and younger who are 4' 9" or taller.

Seating Position

Children 12 and under should sit in the back seat when practical.

Fines & Penalties

Maximum fine for first offense is $124 to driver if the passenger is under 16, and to passenger if 16 or older.

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