Car Seat Laws in Missouri
Missouri requires all vehicle occupants to be restrained, regardless of age.
Rear-Facing
Until age 2 or RF seat limit (recommended)
State law requires rear-facing for children under 1
Forward-Facing
Age 2–3 or FF seat limit
Harnessed car seat required
Booster Seat
Ages 4–8 or until 4'9"
Booster seat with seat belt
Seat Belt Only
Age 8+ or 4'9"; all passengers must wear seat belt
Seat belt must fit properly across chest and hips — not across the neck
Fine for Violations
Up to $50 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
Missouri Revised Statutes §307.179