What Is the Difference Between Booster Seats & Car Seats?

Car seats have an internal set of harnesses to secure the child in the seat, while the vehicle's restraint harnesses are used to secure the car seat to the vehicle seat. Booster seats are designed to raise the child up so the vehicle's restraint system properly secures the child and the booster seat in place.

  1. Rear-Facing Car Seat

    • Never use a car seat in the front seat of a vehicle. A rear-facing car seat is safest for children from birth to at least age 1 and up to at least 20 pounds.

    Forward-Facing Car Seat

    • A front-facing car seat is required for children younger than 4 who weigh less than 40 pounds who no longer require a rear-facing car seat. Always refer to the car seat instruction manual to ensure the proper installation and use of the child safety seat.

    Booster Seat

    • Once a child has reached 4 and weighs at least 40 pounds, she can begin using a booster seat in the back seat of the vehicle. Continue using a booster seat until she is about 8 years old or 4 foot 9 inches tall and the vehicle's restraint system fits properly across her upper thighs and chest.

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