California sets a rear-facing requirement and a back-seat rule that catch out visiting families. See the age, weight and height thresholds that apply, and where the state rule is stricter than general guidance.
California Car Seat Laws 2026 — Check Your Child’s Seat Is Legal
California has some of the strictest car seat laws in the US. Know exactly what CVC §27360 requires for your child’s age and size.
Enter your child’s age, weight, and height. The checker applies California CVC §27360 and AB-2926 to tell you exactly which seat type is required.
California car seat fines carry a base of $100 for a first offence and $250 after that, plus penalty assessments and one DMV point, which is how the commonly quoted $490 total is reached — one of the highest in the country. AB-2926 (January 2026) updated rear-facing requirements.
California parents, rideshare drivers, and anyone transporting children in California.
- California CVC §27360
- AB-2926 (Jan 2026 update)
- FMVSS 213 / NHTSA federal standard
Disclaimer: This tool is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, safety, or professional advice. Sunferno Automotive Accessories cannot verify how products are installed, used, or attached in your specific vehicle or situation — proper installation, use, and securement are solely the responsibility of the user. Laws and regulations vary by jurisdiction and change over time; always confirm current requirements with your local authorities or a qualified professional. Sunferno products must be used strictly in accordance with manufacturer instructions and applicable regulations.