Georgia’s Car Seat and Seat Belt Laws

To reduce the number of vehicle-related child injuries, Georgia requires all minor children—with a few exceptions—to use an appropriate restraint system when riding in a motor vehicle. The type of restraint system required depends on the height, weight, and age of the child.

Georgia's Car Seat Laws for Children Under 8 Years Old

Georgia law requires that all children under eight years old be restrained in a certified child restraint system, appropriate to the child’s height and weight. Here are the requirements for children in the under-eight category. (Ga. Code Ann. § 40-8-76 (2024).)

If a vehicle doesn’t have shoulder belts or rear seats or they are all being used by other children, a child who’s over 40 pounds can lawfully sit in the front seat or use a lap-only belt.

Georgia's Rear-Facing Car Seat Rule

Generally, infants and small children should be in rear-facing car seats.

Georgia's Forward-Facing Car Seat Rule

Children who are at least 21 pounds and at least one year old can use a forward-facing seat.

Georgia's Booster Seat Rule

Generally, children who are at least 40 pounds can use a booster seat.

Georgia's Car Seat and Seat Belt Laws for Children Over 8 Years Old

Children who are at least eight years old aren’t required to use a child restraint system but must still wear a seat belt until reaching age 18. The state encourages children to remain in a booster seat until the child is at least 40 pounds and four feet, nine inches tall.

Penalties for Violations of Georgia's Child Car Seat Laws

Failure to properly restrain a child under eight years old carries a $50 fine. Any subsequent violation will result in a $100 fine. Seat belt violations for children over eight years old will result in a $25 fine.

Exceptions to Georgia's Car Seat Laws

Taxis and buses are exempt from child restraint laws. Children with certain documented medical conditions might also be exempt from the normal child restraint rules.

More Information and Resources

For more information about child restraint systems, check the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control. It’s also a good idea to register your car seat to be notified regarding recalls.