Car Seat Laws in Kentucky
Kentucky requires children under age 8 to sit in the back seat.
Rear-Facing
Until age 2 or RF seat limit (recommended)
State law requires rear-facing until at least age 2
Forward-Facing
Age 2–7 or FF seat limit
Harnessed seat required through age 7
Booster Seat
Ages 8–9 or until 4'9"
Booster seat required
Seat Belt Only
Age 10+ in back seat; all ages in front
Seat belt must fit properly across chest and hips — not across the neck
Fine for Violations
Up to $45 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
Kentucky Revised Statutes §189.125