Car Seat Laws in Mississippi
Mississippi has one of the lowest minimum fines, but AAP recommendations exceed state minimums significantly.
Rear-Facing
Until age 1 AND 20 lbs (minimum); AAP recommends until seat limit
Mississippi's law is a minimum — follow AAP recommendations
Forward-Facing
Age 1–4 or FF seat limit
Harnessed seat required
Booster Seat
Ages 4–7 or until 4'9"
Booster required
Seat Belt Only
Age 8+ or 4'9"; all passengers under 18 must be restrained
Seat belt must fit properly across chest and hips — not across the neck
Fine for Violations
Up to $25 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
Mississippi Code §63-7-301