Toddlers - Age 1 & 20 lbs to Age 4 & 40 lbs
When children outgrow their rear-facing seats (at a minimum age 1 and at least 20 pounds) they should ride in forward-facing child safety seats, in the back seat, until they reach the upper weight or height limit of the particular seat (usually around age 4 and 40 pounds).

Always read the child seat instruction manual. Each manufacturer provides specific instructions regarding proper use and installation of their child seats.

Ease of Use Ratings
Click HERE to check out our recently enhanced “Ease of Use” ratings in helping you choose the forward-facing toddler seat right for you and your child.

LATCH - Lower Anchors and Tether for Children
Click HERE for information on LATCH. A system intended to make child seat installation easier-without using seat belts.

LATCH Instructional Videos (click on the image for online viewing)
Forward-Facing Convertible Seat (download video)	Forward-Facing Car Seat (download video)

State/Local Installation Stations
Click HERE for a list of state/local installation stations in having your forward-facing toddler seat checked to ensure proper installation.

Child Seat Registration Form for Notification of Defects and Recalls
Click HERE to fill out a child seat registration form, whereby NHTSA will provide your respective child seat manufacturer with your contact information to notify you of any safety recalls regarding your child seat. Or, you may also fill out and send in the registration form attached to your child seat upon purchase.

4 Steps for Kids
Click HERE once your child outgrows their forward-facing seat (usually around age 4 and 40 pounds) to learn about Step 3: Booster Seats.

Other Useful Information

• Traffic Safety Fact Sheet - Child Restraint Use 2006