Car Seat Laws in Montana
Montana has a primary seat belt enforcement law for front seat passengers.
Rear-Facing
Until age 1 AND 20 lbs (minimum law); AAP recommends until RF seat limit
Montana's law is a minimum — always follow seat manufacturer guidelines
Forward-Facing
Age 1–5 or FF seat limit
Must use a harnessed seat
Booster Seat
Ages 6–7 or until seat belt fits properly
Booster required
Seat Belt Only
Age 6+ in front seat; all under 18 must wear seat belt
Seat belt must fit properly across chest and hips — not across the neck
Fine for Violations
Up to $100 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
Montana Code Annotated §61-13-103