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.

Go here for a list of the current top rated Rear-Facing Car Seats.

Every parent in Idaho must read this article. Below, we’ll go over everything you need to know about Idaho’s latest child seat safety laws and supply you with the online resources you need to keep your child safe. After reading through all this info, you’ll feel confident driving around the Gem State with your children.

Idaho car seat laws

  • 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.

Additional resources

  • The top rated 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 the bottom of this page on the NHTSA’s website.
  • WHALE Window Stickers: The state of Idaho participates in a program called WHALE (“We Have A Little Emergency”) to help first responders identify children in safety seats in the event of an emergency. You can find out more information about getting a WHALE card for your child in this brochure.
  • Idaho Child Restrain Recommendations via Idaho Transportation Dept: Highway Safety
  • Idaho Statute 49-672: Passenger Safety for Children
  • Idaho’s pricing for infractions and penalties: Infraction schedule