Idaho Car Seat Laws

According to Idaho State Law, until children are 8yrs old and at least 4’9, they must be secured in a proper rear-facing car seat, forward-facing car seat or booster seat depending on their age.

After reading through all this info, you’ll feel confident driving around the Gem State with your children.

• Toddlers and babies must remain in a rear facing car seat until they’re 2 years old, or until they reach the the highest weight and height limit allowed by the car seat manufacturer.
• After the rear facing car seat, children go on to a forward facing car seat. Children should stay in the forward facing seat until they reach the upper height and weight limits of car seat, which is generally 4 years old and 40-65 pounds.
• Then, children may use a booster seat. Be sure to NEVER use only a lap belt with a booster seat.

Best Rear Facing Car Seats

• Car Seat Safety Laws - The Safest Rear Facing Car Seats

Free car seat installation inspections

Almost all fire departments, police stations and EMTs offer installation checks. For a complete list, visit this page on the NHTSA’s website.

Child Restraint RECOMMENDATIONS by Age and Size

Idaho Child Restrain Recommendations provided by, Idaho Transportation Dept: Highway Safety

Rear Facing Seat

• To 2 years of age, or until the highest weight and height limit allowed by the car seat manufacturer.

Forward Facing Seat

• To upper height and weight limits of car seat, approximately 4 years and 40-65 pounds.
• The top tether should be used until child weighs 40 pounds.

Booster Seat

• From approximately 4 to at least 8 years old or 4’9”
• Use a high back or backless belt positioning booster
• Lap-belt only seating positions should not be used with booster seat

Adult Seat Belt

• Age 8 or older and at least 4’9”
• Lap belt lays across upper thighs and shoulder belt across chest; knees bend at seat edge

Car Seat Recommendations: Choosing the Right Seat

Choose the Right Seat

Child Restraint Basics – Pocket Card

The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) created a pocket card which provides child restraint basic recommendations to parents and caregivers. The card features restraint types and positions based on a child’s height, weight and age. The card is free.

Idaho State Statutes on Passenger Safety

Idaho Statute 49-672: Passenger Safety for Children

Idaho’s pricing for infractions and penalties: Infraction schedule