Infants - from birth to at least 1 year old
For the best possible protection keep babies in the back seat, in rear-facing child safety seats, as long as possible up to the height or weight limit of the particular seat. At a minimum, keep babies rear-facing until a minimum of age 1 and at least 20 pounds.

Always read the child seat instruction manual. Each manufacturer provides specific instructions regarding proper use and installation of their child seats.

Ease of Use Ratings
Click HERE to check out our recently enhanced “Ease of Use” ratings in helping you choose the rear-facing infant seat right for you and your child.

LATCH - Lower Anchors and Tether for Children
Click HERE for information on LATCH. A system intended to make child seat installation easier-without using seat belts.

LATCH Instructional Videos (click on the image for online viewing)
Rear-Facing Car Seat (download video)	Rear-Facing Convertible Seat (download video)

State/Local Installation Stations
Click HERE for a list of state/local installation stations in having your rear-facing infant seat checked to ensure proper installation.

Child Seat Registration Form for Notification of Defects and Recalls
Click HERE to fill out a child seat registration form, whereby NHTSA will provide your respective child seat manufacturer with your contact information to notify you of any safety recalls regarding your child seat. Or, you may also fill out and send in the registration form attached to your child seat upon purchase.

4 Steps for Kids
Click HERE once your child outgrows their rear-facing seat (at a minimum age 1 and at least 20 pounds) to learn about Step 2: Forward Facing Seats.

Other Useful Information:

• Traffic Safety Fact Sheet - Child Restraint Use 2006