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NJ Car Seat Law
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Keeping children properly restrained is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injuries in a motor vehicle crash.

New Jersey law establishes the following minimum child passenger safety requirements:

Birth to Age 2

Children under 2 years old and weighing less than 30 pounds must ride in a rear-facing child safety seat equipped with a five-point harness. Children should remain rear-facing until they reach both the age and weight requirements, even if their legs appear cramped.

Ages 2 to 4

Children under 4 years old and weighing less than 40 pounds must remain in either a rear-facing or forward-facing child safety seat with a five-point harness, secured in the rear seat whenever one is available.

Ages 4 to 8

Children must continue to ride in an appropriate forward-facing child safety seat or booster seat in the rear seat until they are at least 8 years old or 57 inches (4 feet 9 inches) tall. Once either requirement is met, they may use the vehicle's standard lap and shoulder seat belt.

Age 8 and Older

Children 8 years of age or older, or who are 57 inches or taller, may use the vehicle's standard seat belt. Although New Jersey law does not specify when a child may ride in the front seat, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children remain in the back seat until at least age 13 for maximum safety.

Vehicles Without a Rear Seat

If a vehicle does not have a rear seat, such as certain pickup trucks or sports cars, a child may ride in the front seat using the appropriate child safety seat or booster seat. Never place a rear-facing child safety seat in front of an active passenger-side airbag. If a rear-facing seat must be installed in the front seat, the passenger-side airbag must be turned off, if the vehicle is equipped with that feature.

Penalties

Failure to comply with New Jersey's child passenger safety laws may result in fines as provided by state law.

Need Help with a Car Seat?

The Waldwick Police Department offers assistance with child
passenger safety seats, including:

  • Proper car seat installation

  • Car seat inspections

  • Instruction for parents and caregivers on correct use and installation

To schedule an appointment or request assistance, please contact the Waldwick Police Department:

Email: csanchez@waldwicknj.org
Phone: (201) 652-5700

Helpful Resources

For additional information on child passenger safety, proper
car seat installation, and current New Jersey laws, visit the following trusted
resources: