The Car Seat Rules
S.C. Code 56-5-6410 — rear facing under two, a booster from four, the adult belt at eight or fifty-seven inches
- Under two: a rear facing seat in a rear seat, until the child exceeds the seat maker's height or weight limit.
- At least two, or younger and outgrown the rear facing seat: a forward facing seat with a harness in a rear seat, until outgrown.
- At least four and outgrown that: a belt positioning booster in a rear seat, used with lap and shoulder belts, never a lap belt alone.
- At least eight, or at least fifty-seven inches tall: the adult belt, if it fits across the thighs and hips, crosses the center of the chest, and the child can sit back with knees bent at the seat's edge.
That is how a driver transporting a child under eight in a car, pickup, van or recreational vehicle secures the child. A child who cannot use a standard seat for documented medical reasons may ride in one designed for their needs.
A violation carries a fine of up to $150, which the court waives for a person who shows, by the appearance date, that they have acquired, bought or rented a compliant seat. Any seat that met federal standards when made satisfies the article. A particular case is a question for a licensed South Carolina attorney.
Sources for this section (2)
- S.C. Code 56-5-6410 — Child passenger restraint systems
- S.C. Code 56-5-6450 — Penalty for violation of article; waiver of fine
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed South Carolina attorney.