At what age is a child required to be in a car seat in California?

In California, the law requires that children must be secured in a car seat until they are either under eight years old or less than 4 feet 9 inches tall. This regulation is designed to ensure the safety of children in the event of a vehicle collision. Car seats provide crucial support and protection for young passengers, significantly reducing the risk of serious injury.

The specific requirements reflect both age and height to account for the varying sizes and development of children. A child who is under eight years old is still in a developmental stage where standard seat belts may not fit properly, which can lead to serious injury in an accident. Similarly, the height requirement ensures that even slightly older children who have not reached a sufficient height for standard seat belts to function safely must remain in a car seat.

When considering other age options, while the ages specified in the incorrect answers might seem reasonable, the law specifically mandates the combination of age and height to enhance child safety in vehicles. This reflects the understanding that different children grow at different rates, and a one-size-fits-all age may not capture every child's safety needs.