Vehicle Safety for Children

 

Rhode Island requires children to ride in the back seat secured in an approved car seat or booster seat until they are 8 years old, 57 inches tall, or weigh 80 pounds. Infants and toddlers must remain rear-facing until at least 2 years old or 30 lbs. [1, 2]

Key Requirements

• Under Age 2: Must be in a rear-facing car seat in the back seat.
• Age 2 to 8: Must be in an approved child restraint system (rear-facing, forward-facing, or booster seat) in the back seat.
• Ages 8–17: Can sit in the front or back, but must be secured with a seat belt.
• Exiting a Booster: Children who meet all three of the following can transition to a regular seat belt: Age 8 or older, at least 57 inches tall, and 80+ pounds. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]

Exemptions & Fines

• Pickup Trucks / Vehicles without rear seats: Children may ride in the front, but must still be properly restrained in their car seat/booster (with the passenger-side airbag turned off, if applicable).
• Penalties: Fines for a first-time child restraint violation are typically $85. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Full details can be found on the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles or the Rhode Island State Police resources. [1]