The Car Seat Rules
Transp. Code 545.412 — younger than eight, unless taller than four feet nine
In Texas, a person commits an offense by operating a passenger vehicle while transporting a child younger than eight years of age, unless the child is taller than four feet, nine inches, without keeping the child secured in a child passenger safety seat system according to the seat manufacturer's instructions.
| The question | What the section says |
|---|---|
| The questionWho it covers | What the section saysA child younger than eight, unless taller than four feet, nine inches |
| The questionWhat the child rides in | What the section saysA child passenger safety seat system meeting federal crash test standards, used per its maker's instructions |
| The questionThe offense | What the section saysA misdemeanor, fine of not less than $25 and not more than $250 |
| The questionA defense | What the section saysDriving in an emergency or for a law enforcement purpose |
- It does not apply to a vehicle transporting passengers for hire, apart from certain contracted Medicaid transport.
- It does not apply when every seating position with a safety seat or safety belt is occupied.
- A passenger vehicle includes a car, light truck, sport utility vehicle, and a van designed for 15 or fewer passengers.
Sources for this section (1)
- Transp. Code 545.412 — Child passenger safety seat systems; offense
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Texas attorney.