Car Seat Laws in Arkansas
Arkansas was one of the first states to pass mandatory child restraint laws.
Rear-Facing
Until age 2 or until RF weight/height limit of seat (recommended)
State law requires rear-facing for infants under 1 AND under 20 lbs minimum
Forward-Facing
Age 2 through 5 or until FF seat limit
Must use seat with harness
Booster Seat
Ages 6–7 or until seat belt fits properly
Backless or high-back booster with seat belt
Seat Belt Only
Age 15 and under must wear seat belt
Seat belt must fit properly across chest and hips — not across the neck
Fine for Violations
Up to $100 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
Arkansas Code §27-34-104