North Dakota’s Child Car Seat and Seatbelt Laws

North Dakota has different seatbelt and car seat requirements depending on the passenger's age and size and the seat location. Below is an overview of the requirements and violation penalties associated with North Dakota's child restraint laws.

North Dakota's Car Seat Laws

Until a passenger turns 18 years old, he or she must be properly secured with a seatbelt or child restraint system.

ND Children Under 8 Years Old—Car Seats, Boosters, and Seatbelts

All children under eight years old must be properly secured in an appropriate child restraint system. The appropriate restraint may be a rear- or forward-facing car seat or booster seat, depending on the child's age, weight, and height. All restraints should be used consistent with the manufacturer's instructions.

A child who's at least 57 inches tall is not required to use a child restraint system. In other words, children who are at least this size need only a normal seatbelt to comply with the law

ND Children Under 18 years old—Seatbelts are Mandatory

Children who have outgrown child restraints must still wear seatbelts.

Fines and Points for Child Car Seat and Seatbelt Violations in North Dakota

The driver will be liable for any minor passenger not properly secured. A violation will result in a $25 fine and one demerit point.

Exceptions to North Dakota's Child Restraint Laws

The restraint requirement does not apply to vehicles not manufactured with seatbelts or in medical emergencies.

Information and Resources About Car Seats, Boosters, and Seatbelts

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.