Does anyone know what the age limit is for car seats in California?

Question

My son just turned 7 last week and im thinking he's ready to ride without a car seat. He is a light kid maybe 45-50 lbs.

Answer 1

According to California law, your son may ride without a car seat or booster seat right now. California states 6 years old or 60 pounds.
However, our states do not do a good job of protecting our kids when it comes to writing these laws, so here is what you SHOULD do despite the law to keep your son the safest in the vehicle.
He is ready to ride without his booster seat when he can pass the 5 step test: If he can sit all the way back against your vehicle seat without slouching with his knees bent comfortably over the edge of the vehicle seat, the lap belt fits low and snug on his hips or upper thighs and the shoulder belt fits comfortably across the center of his collar bone without touching his neck or sliding off his shoulder. If he can sit like this for the entire trip, he is ready for just the seatbelt.
Keep in mind most kids do not pass this test until they are 8 years old or around 4'9" tall. Some kids need boosters til around 9 or 10 years old. Your child should be tested in each vehicle he rides in, he may pass in one car and not another.

HTH,

Kelly

Answer 2

Most states don't use an age, as all children are different. They will, however, specify a height and/or weight under which the child should be in a booster. Go by the local police or fire station and let them take a look at your car, your son, and his car seat. They are much more knowledgeable than most people on Y/A, and can tell you exactly what you need to do to keep your son safe. I know that it is hard, too. They really want out of those seats, don't they? I know my daughter did.

Answer 3

Weight

Answer 4

look on his car seat, there is usually a age/weight range and as long as he is the correct age and weight you are ok.