N.C. Child Restraint law

The law requires:
  • All children less than 16 years of age must be buckled up in both the front and back seats.
  • A child who is less than age 8 and less than 80 pounds must be restrained in a child restraint or booster seat.
  • Most children will meet the law by using a belt-positioning booster.
  • When a child reaches age 8 or 80 pounds, a properly fitting safety belt may be used instead of a child restaint.
  • If no seating position equipped with a lap and shoulder belt is available, a child weighing 40 pounds or more may be restrained in a properly fitted lap belt only.
  • Warning: Belt-positioning boosters must NEVER be used with just a lap belt.
Violations:
  • Two points applied to your driving record for violations of child restraint laws.
  • This law applies to all passenger vehicles with either in-state or out-of-state registrations.
  • The driver is responsible for properly restraining all children less than age 16 in the vehicle.
  • Cost: $25 fine plus court costs (at least $100).
Facts
  • Trauma from motor vehicle crashes is the leading cause of death and serious injury to children in North Caolina.
  • Studies have shown that child restraints DO save lives, but only if they are used CORRECTLY.
  • The back seat is the safest place for a child to ride.
  • Air bags save lives, but are designed for adults! Children under age 13 riding in front seats can be seriously injured or killed when an air bag deploys.