Car Seat Laws in New York

New York car seat laws require children under four to ride in a child safety seat. Children under eight need to use a child restraint system.
Written by Bonnie Stinson
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
background
New York car seat laws require children younger than four to ride in a child safety seat. Children under the age of eight need to use a child restraint system. And children under the age of two must ride in a rear-facing car seat.
Breaking New York’s car seat laws could earn you fines, along with putting young passengers in danger. That’s why the driving expert and
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We can even help you land the lowest
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—so read on!

What is the car seat law in New York?

If a child is younger than four, they must ride in a child safety seat. And all children under eight are legally required to use a child restraint system in New York.
A child restraint system can mean a booster seat, safety seat, harness, or vest. But children under the age of two must ride in a rear-facing car seat.
Key Takeaway In New York, children under the age of two must ride in a rear-facing car seat. Children under four need a safety seat, while children under eight need a child restraint system.

What are the penalties for breaking the car seat law in New York?

If you violate the New York car seat law, you could be fined $50.
If the child in violation of the car seat law is under the age of 16, the maximum fine is $100 and the driver gets three points on their driving record.
Key Takeaway You will receive a fine and three points on your record if you break the car seat law in New York.

Can breaking the car seat law impact my driving record?

Yes, in New York the state will add three points to your driving record if you break the car seat law.
If you were pulled over for a separate offense (like speeding), you could be facing a penalty of more than three points.
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How breaking car seat laws can impact insurance in New York

Breaking car seat laws is considered a moving violation in New York and you will get points on your record, which will ultimately impact your insurance.
The amount you pay for insurance is determined by risk. If you are a risky driver, you’ll have to pay more for coverage. Points on your record (say, for allowing a seven-year-old to ride without a child restraint system) demonstrate high risk, which will impact your insurance.
Not only could your premium skyrocket, but some companies might even refuse to insure you.

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