How to Buy a Booster Seat

Children need to be properly restrained in a vehicle to ensure their safety. State regulations and booster seat manufacturers offer guidelines for purchasing safety seats for older children. Use these steps to buy the right booster seat for your child.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Measure your child's weight and height to see which booster seat fits his body type. Children up to 40 pounds can use a convertible booster seat that features a 5-point harness system. The harness can be removed when the child grows big enough to use the vehicle seat belt. Use booster seats without the harness for children over 40 pounds.

2. Check your state's booster seat requirements and regulations on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website. Laws vary by state, so confirm that the seat you choose conforms to your state's regulations.

3. Visit a store that sells booster seats with your child. Have your child sit in the seat to ensure he fits properly and is comfortable. Purchase the seat from the store or a website.

4. Install the booster seat in your vehicle after reading the vehicle's manual for special instructions. If your vehicle was manufactured after the year 2000, use the LATCH system to safely install the booster seat.

5. Find an inspector to make sure you installed the booster seat properly. Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website or call 1-888-327-4236 to locate an inspector in your area.

Tips & Warnings

• All children under 4 feet 9 inches must use a child safety seat.
• A booster seat without a back should be used only if your vehicle has a built-in headrest.

Resources

• The Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety website offers information on child safety seats.
• Booster Seat is a booster seat information website created by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.