Car Seat Laws in New Mexico
New Mexico has a primary enforcement seat belt law for all occupants.
Rear-Facing
Until age 1 AND 20 lbs (minimum); AAP recommends rear-facing until seat limit
Follow seat manufacturer guidelines beyond the legal minimum
Forward-Facing
Age 1–4 or FF seat limit
Harnessed seat required
Booster Seat
Ages 5–7 or until 4'9"
Booster seat with seat belt
Seat Belt Only
Age 8+ or 4'9"; all occupants 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 Mexico Statutes §66-7-369