Car Seat Laws in Colorado
Colorado requires all children under 16 to wear a seat belt or appropriate restraint.
Rear-Facing
Until age 1 AND 20 lbs (minimum law); AAP recommends rear-facing until seat limit
Follow the seat manufacturer's limits, not just the legal minimum
Forward-Facing
Age 1–4 or until FF seat limit
Must use harnessed seat
Booster Seat
Ages 4–8 or until 4'9" tall
Booster with vehicle seat belt required
Seat Belt Only
Age 8+ or 4'9" tall
Seat belt must fit properly across chest and hips — not across the neck
Fine for Violations
Up to $65 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
Colorado Revised Statutes §42-4-236