California’s seat belt and child car seat laws can be complex and confusing, especially after receiving a traffic ticket.
This blog post intends to guide our clients in Tulare County and across California through these rules so they know what to expect and how to protect their driving records.
Why California’s Seat Belt and Child Car Seat Law Matters
These seat belt and child car seat laws are enacted to keep families safe.
Officers enforce these rules on Tulare County highways, including State Route 99 and Highway 198.
A simple mistake or misapplication of the law can lead to steep fines. Auto insurance increases will likely follow a paid fine or conviction. Many drivers only discover the true cost when the renewal notice arrives.
Child Car Seat Basics Every Driver with Children Should Know
Children under eight must ride in the back seat. This rule protects them from airbag injuries. They must also sit in a system that matches their size and age.
Parents must ensure the seat meets state standards. That includes rear-facing, forward-facing, and booster systems.
Rear-Facing Car Seat Requirements
Kids two and younger must stay in rear-facing car seats until they reach 40 pounds and 40 inches. This position protects their head and neck in a crash.
Drivers must follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Incorrect installation can lead to tickets and safety risks.
Forward-Facing Car Seat Requirements
Once a child reaches the height and weight threshold, they may switch to a forward-facing seat. These seats must also be installed exactly as directed.
A ticket for misuse can still occur. Traffic court takes these violations seriously.
Booster Seat Laws
Children can shift to a booster seat when they outgrow forward-facing limits. Most booster seats begin around 65 pounds.
Penalties increase when a child rides without required restraints. Fines can reach $260 for repeat violations. These fines could be per passenger not in compliance, so they could add up quickly.
These are moving violations. DMV NOTS points will apply. Insurance companies may raise premiums after a paid fine or conviction.
When Children Can Sit in the Front Seat
Drivers often ask when a child may move to the front. Under the seat belt and child car seat laws, children under eight can only sit in front when no rear seats exist or all rear seats are taken by other children.
Rear-facing seats must never be placed in front of an active airbag. Violations can result in expensive tickets.
Seat Belt Requirements for Older Children
Once children outgrow restraint systems, they must use a seatbelt. Everyone eight and older must remain buckled. Those 16 and older must also comply or face penalties.
This rule applies anywhere in Tulare County—from Visalia’s city streets to rural stretches of State Route 65.
Penalties for Violations
Car seat or seatbelt offenses might seem minor. They are not. Fines can stack quickly. Failure to appear in court makes matters worse.
Ignoring a ticket can lead to misdemeanor charges under state law. Jail time or probation, and additional fines are possible. It is never wise to let a ticket sit unresolved. Ask a traffic attorney who regularly appears in Tulare County about your options.
Possible Legal Defenses
Some drivers have valid reasons for not complying. Emergencies or medical conditions may justify temporary exceptions.
Other considerations include:
- A parent or legal guardian other than the driver was responsible for the child.
- A temporary caregiver was transporting a child for urgent medical care.
- The restraint system failed despite proper installation.
A traffic attorney can review the situation and determine the best defense.
Ask Bigger & Harman About California’s Seat Belt and Child Car Seat Laws
A ticket under the seat belt and child car seat law can create long-term financial stress.
Consulting a traffic attorney before paying the fine could prevent DMV NOTS points, insurance hikes, and unnecessary penalties. We help drivers resolve these tickets in Porterville or Visalia Courthouse.
Call Bigger & Harman at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español at 859-1177. You can also email attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com or use our secure automated contact form.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Section
Q: What does California’s seat belt and child car seat law require?
A: The seat belt and child car seat law requires proper restraints for children based on age, size, and seating position, and seat belt use by all drivers and passengers.
Q: Do these violations add DMV NOTS points?
A: A paid fine or conviction will add DMV NOTS points, which will likely trigger higher auto insurance premiums at renewal.
Q: Can a child under eight ever sit in the front seat?
A: Only when no rear seats exist or all rear seats are occupied by other children.
References:
CA VC Section 27360, Child Safety Belt and Passenger Restraint Requirements.
CA VC Section 40508, Release Upon Promise to Appear.
The Bankrate.com article, Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2025.