Car Seat Laws in Connecticut
Connecticut requires all passengers (not just children) to wear seat belts.
Rear-Facing
Until age 2 or RF seat weight/height limit (recommended)
Children under 1 must be rear-facing by law
Forward-Facing
Age 2–4 or until FF seat limit
Harnessed forward-facing seat required
Booster Seat
Ages 4–7 or until 4'9" tall
Must be used until seat belt fits properly
Seat Belt Only
Age 8+ or over 4'9" tall
Seat belt must fit properly across chest and hips — not across the neck
Fine for Violations
$199 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
Connecticut General Statutes §14-100a