Does Your Child Pass the 5-Step Test?

Moving out of a booster car seat can be an exciting step for children, giving them a feeling of confidence and independence. Many children are eager to make the transition so that they can feel more grown up, especially if their friends are no longer in boosters. However, this is not a step you want to take too early.

It’s important to remember that vehicle seat belts are designed for adults, not children. While your child has certainly come a long way since their infant and toddler days, they may still need that extra “boost” in order for the vehicle seat belt to fit them properly and perform as intended.

Each state and province has its own requirements for moving out of the booster stage. Even if your child has met those requirements, you should still ensure that the vehicle seat belt fits them properly before making the transition.

We recommend that you only move your child out of their booster seat if they can pass the 5-Step Test. Here's what to look for:

1. Can your child sit with their back flat against the vehicle seat?
2. Do your child's knees bend naturally over the front edge of the vehicle seat?
3. Is the lap belt sitting low across your child's hips and thighs (not their stomach)?
4. Does the seat belt sit across the middle of your child's shoulder (not their neck or face)?
5. Can your child stay seated correctly like this for the entire trip without slumping?

If you answered “no” to any of these questions, your child should continue using their booster seat.

Once your child meets local requirements and can pass the 5-step test, they’re ready to buckle up using just the vehicle seat belt! Remember, even after moving out of a booster, children should continue to ride in the back seat for safety. Again, regional requirements for moving to the front seat vary. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children remain in the back seat until they turn 13.

By keeping your child in a booster until the vehicle seat belt fits them properly, you can help ensure they stay safe on every ride.