Tennessee Car Seat Laws

Tennessee had 208,605 car crashes in 2018 and almost 1,000 of them were fatal.

But you don’t have to be part of those statistics. We’ve got some vital info below on how to keep you and your little ones safe:


Tennessee Infant/Toddler Car Seat Law

Tennessee law states that all infants and toddlers under the age of 12 months and who weigh 20 or fewer pounds, must be secured in a rear-facing or infant-only car seat. 

Tennessee Forward-facing Car Seat Law

According to the Tennessee law, Children under the age of 3, who weigh more than 20 pounds shall be secured in a forward-facing car seat.

Child Booster Seat Laws in Tennessee

From 4 years of age until they are under 8 years and no taller than 4 feet 9 inch, children must be secured in a booster seat.

When Can My Child Sit in the Front Seat in Tennessee?

Tennessee law says that your child should sit in the back seat until the age of 8. Tennessee High Office safety recommends that your child should sit in the back seat until they are 13.

Leaving Child in Car Law in Tennessee

It is illegal to leave a child in a car when:

  • The conditions can be dangerous for the child.
  • There is no other child who is 12 or older.
  • There are keys anywhere in the passenger compartment or engine running.

Is it Illegal to Smoke in a Car with a Child in Tennessee?

There are no laws in Tennessee regarding smoking with child passengers.

Taxi Car Seat Law in Tennessee

Taxis are exempt from child restraint laws in Tennessee but it’s their responsibility to let parents use a child restraint system if they want. (Source)

Tennessee Law Car Seat - Replacement After Accident

There are no guidelines in Tennessee law regarding seat replacement. You can always follow the seat manual for further instructions.  

Places to Get Car Seat Help in Tennessee

Here are some resources that can help you with the car seat inspection and provide you further help.

Good Car Seat Videos for Tennessean Parents

Franklin Fire Dept Car Seat Safety

Installing a Car Seat Properly

Car Seat save lives

Child Passenger Safety - 5 Step Test

The Inch Test

Rear-Facing Seat with a Seat Belt

Rear-Facing Convertible with Seat Belt

High-Back Booster Seat

Using a Backless Booster Seat

Child Passenger Safety - Harness Fit


About Safe Parents

Safe Parents was founded by seat safety expert, Peter Z. We are dedicated to safe parenting and providing with parents resources to help protect and guide their kids.

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