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September 20-26, 2026 · Third week of September, ending with Seat Check Saturday

Child Passenger Safety Week in California

Most car seats are installed wrong in some way. One week each September is dedicated to fixing that, ending with free Seat Check Saturday events.

Child Passenger Safety Week runs September 20-26 in 2026, closing with National Seat Check Saturday on September 26, when certified technicians check installations for free at fire stations, hospitals, and CHP offices across California.

California car seat law, by age

  • Under 2 years: rear-facing seat, unless the child weighs 40 pounds or more or is 40 inches or taller (Vehicle Code §27360).
  • Under 8 years: secured in a car seat or booster in the back seat.
  • 8 or older, or 4 feet 9 inches or taller: a properly fitting seat belt is legal, though a booster is still safer until the belt fits without it.
  • The driver is the one cited when a child under 16 is improperly restrained.

The week is the easiest time of year to get an installation checked, since agencies publicize local events. CHP offices also check seats year-round by appointment, free of charge.

Frequently asked questions

When can my child stop using a booster seat in California?

At age 8, or once they reach 4 feet 9 inches tall, a child may legally use a seat belt alone. Safety agencies recommend keeping the booster until the lap belt sits on the hips and the shoulder belt crosses the chest without cutting the neck.

How long must a child ride rear-facing in California?

Until age 2, unless the child weighs 40 pounds or more or is 40 or more inches tall. Rear-facing longer than the legal minimum is recommended when the seat allows it.

Where can I get my car seat checked for free?

CHP offices check installations year-round by appointment at no cost, and Seat Check Saturday (September 26, 2026) adds free walk-up events at fire stations and hospitals statewide.

Related guides

Official resources