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Parents in Boise often search for clear answers on car seat and booster seat requirements in Idaho because keeping kids safe on the road is a constant concern. Understanding the law helps reduce the risks of a car accident while also preventing unnecessary fines. At Andrew Injury Law, we explain these rules in plain language so families know what’s legally required and what safety organizations recommend.
According to Idaho Code §49-672, any child who is six years old or younger must be properly secured in a child safety restraint that meets federal motor vehicle safety standard 213. The law applies to noncommercial vehicles manufactured with seat belts after January 1, 1966. The statute also makes clear that failure to use a car seat cannot be used as evidence of contributory negligence in a civil case.
Idaho law requires all children six and under to be secured in a child safety restraint whenever they ride in a noncommercial vehicle.
As said by the American Academy of Pediatrics – Idaho Chapter car seats and boosters are one of the simplest and most effective tools for protecting children. When installed correctly, they reduce the risk of fatal injury in a crash by 71% for infants and by 54% for toddlers.
The type of car seat your child needs depends on both age and size. Infants should always ride in a rear-facing seat for as long as possible, ideally until they reach the maximum weight or height allowed by the manufacturer. Once a child outgrows the rear-facing seat, a forward-facing car seat with a harness is the next step. After this stage, a booster seat ensures the vehicle’s seat belt fits correctly across the chest and lap.
Many safety organizations recommend that children continue using a booster until they pass the seat belt fit test, usually between 8 and 12 years old. Parents searching for booster seat requirements in Idaho often find this stage confusing, so understanding the seat belt fit test is key.
The driver of the vehicle is responsible for ensuring proper child safety. Parents, guardians, or anyone transporting a child under six must follow the restraint requirements.
The ticket is issued to the driver, not the child’s parent if they are not present. This applies even if the driver is a relative, babysitter, or friend providing transportation.
Violating the Idaho Code can result in a fine, which is treated as an infraction under the state’s penalty schedule. While the dollar amount may vary over time, even a small fine can cause unnecessary expenses.
The law includes a few narrow exceptions. If every seat belt in the car is already occupied, the unrestrained child must sit in the back seat if one is available. Another exception applies when a child is removed from the restraint for nursing or another immediate physiological need. Outside these situations, compliance is mandatory.
Yes, the law still applies in rideshares because the statute covers noncommercial motor vehicles generally. Uber and Lyft policies also expect riders to comply with local laws. This means parents should bring their own car seat or booster when traveling with young children.
Idaho has no statute setting a specific age for riding in the front seat. Safety advocates generally advise that children stay in the back seat until at least age 13. Airbags can cause serious harm to younger passengers, making the back seat the safer option.
Matt Andrew has been an attorney and member of the Idaho Bar since 2007 and has a varied and fascinating legal career. Since 2013, Matt has focused on representing seriously injured people in personal injury and workers’ compensation cases. Matt has successfully tried multiple cases to verdict before the Idaho District Courts and the Idaho Industrial Commission.
Member of the Idaho Bar since 2007
Bar Number: #7698
Location: Meridian, Nampa, and Caldwell, Idaho.
LinkedIn Profile: Matthew Andrew, JD, MBA
At the end of the day, following car seat and booster seat requirements in Idaho makes a huge difference in protecting your child from serious harm in a crash. Beyond safety, knowing the law protects you from penalties and strengthens your ability to focus on recovery if a collision happens. Our team at Andrew Injury Law is ready to guide families through the legal process after a car accident. Call us today at 208-517-7670 to discuss your case.
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4 months ago 
Matt was very helpful in explaining the law and setting realistic expectations about my mothers case. He listened to the facts and gave solid advice about what to do next. I know his time is valuable and limited so I appreciated his complementary consultation and advice. I will definitely turn to him in the future.
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If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, please fill out the form below for your free consultation or call us at 208-517-7670
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Matt Andrew was so helpful and encouraging regarding our small auto accident negotiation. We received clear and comprehensive suggestions and outline of action for us to take. We are grateful to have spoken with him directly and on the first phone call to his office. Great attitude and genuine interest in helping. Definitely recommend.
Matt is a “Tell it like it is”, Attorney. He will scour the data, and go to bat for you. He becomes your liaison, so you can really focus about just getting better, and though he wont loan you any money, he’ll tell you what you need you need to do to survive if you’re out of work for a bit. Attorneys aren’t cheap, you’ll end up with more if you use one. Heed his advise for the strongest case argument in your favor.
I called Matt he was driving he took my information and he immediately called me back, he answered my question and gave me advice on how to handle the situation, he very helpful for my situation, he was thorough
Andrew Injury Law is a personal injury law firm in Idaho. We focus on representing individuals who suffer injuries from someone else’s negligence. We use a compassionate and aggressive approach to help our clients after an injury. Our team knows that injuries can be life-altering. Our Boise injury lawyer fights for our clients every step, leading to trial if necessary. Get in touch with the Boise injury lawyers from Andrew Injury Law today.
Andrew Injury Law represents people who need help during the most challenging times. Injuries are life-changing in many ways. Even a minor injury can leave you out of work for weeks with mountains of medical bills. Permanent injuries require more medical attention and bring more bills. Our team is here to help you every step of the way. Call our personal injury lawyer in Caldwell for a free case review.
You must get legal representation immediately when you suffer an injury or lose a loved one. The insurance companies are vultures looking to diminish your claim. They don’t care about the pain you are suffering. They only care about their bottom line. When you file a personal injury claim, you will pursue justice and compensation for your injuries and losses. Andrew Injury Law helps injured individuals seek compensation from negligent parties. We offer free case reviews, so call our office today.
Our primary goal is to hold the at-fault party responsible by getting you financial reimbursement for your injuries. Schedule a free consultation today with our Meridian personal injury lawyer from Andrew Injury Law.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Attorney Matthew Andrew, who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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If you or a loved one has been seriously injured, please fill out the form below for your free consultation or call us at 208-517-7670
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