Car Seat Laws in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is the only US state without a mandatory seat belt law for adults, but children under 18 are still required to be restrained.
Rear-Facing
Until age 2 or RF seat limit (recommended)
State law requires rear-facing until age 1 minimum
Forward-Facing
Age 2–6 or FF seat limit
Harnessed car seat required
Booster Seat
Ages 7–12 or until 4'9"
Booster or vehicle seat belt required
Seat Belt Only
All passengers must wear seat belt; NH is the only state with no adult seat belt law, but children under 18 ARE required
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
New Hampshire RSA 265:107-a