Car Seat Laws in Iowa
Iowa has a primary seat belt enforcement law covering all occupants.
Rear-Facing
Until age 1 AND 20 lbs (minimum law); AAP recommends until seat limit
Iowa's law is a minimum — follow AAP and seat manufacturer guidance
Forward-Facing
Age 1–6 or FF seat limit
Harnessed seat required
Booster Seat
Ages 6–10 or until 4'9" tall
Booster required until seat belt fits correctly
Seat Belt Only
Age 11+ (or booster outgrown); all occupants under 18 covered
Seat belt must fit properly across chest and hips — not across the neck
Fine for Violations
Up to $195 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
Iowa Code §321.446