Car Seat Laws in Washington
Washington state requires all vehicle occupants to wear seat belts or appropriate restraints.
Rear-Facing
Until age 2 or RF seat limit (recommended)
Washington updated its law to require RF until age 2
Forward-Facing
Age 2–7 or FF seat limit
Harnessed seat required through age 7
Booster Seat
Ages 8–12 or until 4'9"
Booster seat required
Seat Belt Only
All passengers required
Seat belt must fit properly across chest and hips — not across the neck
Fine for Violations
Up to $124 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
Washington Revised Code §46.61.687