Rear-Facing Car Seat Law in Colorado

Colorado law requires that infants and young children ride in rear-facing car seats to reduce the risk of injury or death in the event of a crash. These safety measures align with national child passenger safety guidelines and are strictly enforced across the state.

Rear-Facing Requirements by Age

Colorado Revised Statute § 42-4-236 mandates that children under the age of one and weighing less than 20 pounds must be secured in a rear-facing child restraint system in a rear seat of the vehicle whenever available. However, child safety experts and pediatricians strongly recommend keeping children rear-facing until at least age two or until they reach the upper height or weight limit of the car seat manufacturer’s specifications.

Car Seat Types for Rear-Facing Use

There are three main types of car seats approved for rear-facing use:

• Infant-Only Seats: Designed specifically for newborns and smaller babies, generally supporting 4–35 pounds.
• Convertible Seats: Can be used both rear- and forward-facing, offering longer use for growing children.
• All-in-One Seats: Transition from rear-facing to forward-facing to booster mode, designed to grow with your child.

Always check the label and manual for specific height and weight limitations.

Placement and Installation

The safest spot for any child under 13 years old is the back seat. For rear-facing seats, ensure:

• The harness is snug and at or below the child’s shoulders.
• The chest clip is at armpit level.
• The seat is installed at the correct recline angle to keep the infant’s head from falling forward.

Car seats must be installed per both vehicle and seat manufacturer instructions. Free installation checks are available through Colorado State Patrol's Child Passenger Safety program and local health departments.

Legal and Safety Penalties

Failure to follow the rear-facing seat law in Colorado can result in fines and points on your driving record. First offenses typically carry a $65 fine and a $6 surcharge. More serious cases may be charged under child endangerment laws. Officers may also require proof of corrected behavior (e.g., a proper car seat installation) before dismissing a citation.

Common Exceptions

Colorado law allows limited exceptions, including:

• If the vehicle has no rear seats (e.g., a single-cab truck), the car seat may be placed in the front seat only if the airbag is deactivated.
• Children with medical needs that contraindicate rear-facing positioning, provided a licensed physician certifies this in writing.

Resources for Parents and Caregivers

For help choosing and installing the right seat, Colorado offers educational programs and seat inspection stations statewide. Always register your car seat to receive recall notices and safety updates.

For additional guidance on child safety and Colorado driving laws, visit:

• Rear-Facing Car Seat Law in Colorado
• Colorado's Hands-Free Driving Law Explained
• Colorado Driver’s License Eligibility Guide
• Colorado Express Lane Fines and Rules

You can also consult the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for up-to-date national guidelines.