Indiana Seat Belt Law

Indiana requires the use of seat belts.

The seat belt laws in Indiana dictate that all passengers in a vehicle must wear seat belts, regardless of where in the vehicle they are seated. And a number of laws outline the use of seat belts and child restraint systems.

Backseat

Since July 1, 2007, Indiana law has required that all occupants of a vehicle, including those in the back seat or in pickup trucks, wear safety belts. Previously, passengers 16 or over in the back seat or in a pickup truck did not need to wear seat belts.

Child Restraint Systems

All children under age 4 in Indiana must ride in a safety seat that complies with federal regulations.

Booster Seat

Children in Indiana cannot wear a seat belt without a booster seat and seat belt guide until they are 8 years old.

Primary Offense

Failure to wear a seat belt is a primary offense in Indiana, meaning drivers can be pulled over if a police officer suspects they or their passengers are not wearing a seat belt.

Children in Front Seat

Indiana recommends children under 12 not ride in the front seat, but this is not a law that can result in a citation.

References

• Indiana: Buckle Up Indiana. On July 1, it's the Law.
• City of Bloomington: Seat Belt Information
• White County Sheriff's Office: Indiana Seat Belt Laws