Car Seat Laws in Alaska
Alaska strongly follows NHTSA and AAP recommendations which exceed minimum state law requirements.
Rear-Facing
Until age 2 OR until child exceeds RF weight/height limit (recommended)
Follow the seat's weight and height limits — keep rear-facing as long as possible
Forward-Facing
After rear-facing until FF weight/height limit of seat
Use a harnessed forward-facing seat as long as the child fits
Booster Seat
Until 4'9" tall or age 8–12 (until seat belt fits)
A properly fitting seat belt must lie flat across chest and hips
Seat Belt Only
Age 16 and under must be restrained in any vehicle
Seat belt must fit properly across chest and hips — not across the neck
Fine for Violations
Up to $50 per violation
⚠️ Law vs. AAP Recommendations
State law sets the legal minimum. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends keeping children rear-facing as long as possible within the seat's weight and height limits — often beyond the legal minimum age. Always follow the seat manufacturer's guidelines and AAP recommendations for maximum safety.
📋 Legal Source
Alaska Statute §28.05.095