Arizona’s child restraint laws differ depending on the age and size of the child. The law also provides exceptions for certain types of vehicles and situations.

Here are the basics of the law and penalties for a violation.

Children Under Five Years Old

Arizona law requires all children under the age of five to be properly restrained in a child restraint system. A child restraint system can be rear-facing, forward-facing, or a booster seat so long as they all comply with federal safety regulations.

Children Between Five and Eight Years Old

Children between the ages of five and eight must be in a restraint system if they are under 4’ 9”. Once a child is over the age of five and at least 4’9”, he or she must use a seatbelt.

Exceptions

Arizona’s child restraint law does not apply to a person who:

• is driving a vehicle that was originally manufactured without seatbelts
• is driving a recreational vehicle
• has a CDL license and is driving a commercial vehicle
• must transport a child in an emergency to get medical care
• is driving an authorized emergency vehicle and is transporting a child for medical care.

Penalties

The fine for violating the child restraint law is $50. However, if the driver purchases a car seat that complies with federal safety guidelines, the judge will generally drop the fine.

Child Car Seat Recalls

From time to time, recalls are issued for child car seats. To find out about recalls, you can register with the NHTSA to receive recall information about the seat you have or search for recalls that have already been issued.