After testing car seats for over a decade, I pay close attention to states with above-average child crash fatality rates — and Wisconsin is one of them. At 4.6% of all traffic deaths involving children, Wisconsin has the highest percentage of child traffic fatalities of any state in the country.
Wisconsin recorded 569 traffic fatalities in 2023, with over 118,000 total crashes and nearly 30% of fatal crashes involving impaired drivers. With fines reaching $175 for violations involving children under 4, Wisconsin takes its child restraint law seriously.
This guide covers every requirement of Wisconsin’s child passenger safety law under Wisconsin Statute 347.48, from rear-facing seats through the booster seat transition.
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Wisconsin car seat laws by age
Rear-facing car seats: Wisconsin law requires children under 1 year old or under 20 pounds to ride in a rear-facing child safety seat in the back seat (if the vehicle has one). While the law sets the minimum at age 1 and 20 pounds, the AAP and NHTSA recommend keeping children rear-facing until at least age 2, or until they reach the maximum height and weight limits of their rear-facing seat.
Forward-facing car seats: Children at least 1 year old and 20 pounds, but under 4 years old or under 40 pounds, must be in a forward-facing or rear-facing child safety seat in the back seat (if available). Wisconsin allows parents to keep children rear-facing during this stage, which safety experts strongly recommend.
Booster seats: Under Wisconsin Statute 347.48, children ages 4 through 7 who weigh between 40 and 80 pounds and are no taller than 4 feet 9 inches must ride in a booster seat or forward-facing car seat in the back seat. A child can transition out of a booster when they reach age 8, weigh more than 80 pounds, or exceed 4’9″ tall — whichever comes first.
Seat belt: Children 8 years and older must wear a seat belt. Wisconsin’s seat belt law covers all front-seat occupants and all passengers under 16.
Back seat requirement: Wisconsin law requires children in car seats and booster seats to ride in the back seat when the vehicle is equipped with one. This is a legal requirement, not just a recommendation.
For help choosing the right seat for your child’s current size, check out our best-rated convertible car seats guide.
Fines and enforcement
Wisconsin has significant fines for child restraint violations that vary by age:
Children under 4: The total penalty is $175.30 for any violation.
Children ages 4-8:
- First offense: $150.10
- Second offense: $200.50
- Third and subsequent offenses: $263.50
Wisconsin has primary enforcement for child restraint violations, meaning officers can stop you solely for observing an unrestrained child in your vehicle.
These are among the higher child restraint fines in the country, reflecting Wisconsin’s serious approach to child passenger safety.
Special situations
Taxis and rideshares: Wisconsin’s child restraint law applies to all motor vehicles. Parents using Uber, Lyft, or taxis must provide their own child restraints. There is no exemption for hired vehicles.
Vehicles without back seats: The back-seat requirement applies when the vehicle is “so equipped.” If your vehicle has no back seat, children may ride in front with appropriate restraints. Never place a rear-facing car seat in front of an active airbag.
Leaving a child unattended: Wisconsin law prohibits leaving a child under 6 unattended in a vehicle for any period of time that could be harmful to the child’s health or safety.
Crash replacement: Replace any car seat involved in a moderate-to-severe crash, even without visible damage. Many manufacturers offer free crash replacements, and insurance policies frequently cover the cost. See our guide on what to do with old car seats.
What to do if you get a ticket
If you receive a child restraint citation in Wisconsin, here’s your action plan:
1. Get compliant immediately. With fines up to $263.50 for repeat offenders and Wisconsin’s high child fatality rate in crashes, proper restraint use is critical. Make sure your child is in the right seat for their age, weight, and height.
2. Get a free or low-cost car seat. Wisconsin has programs through local health departments, hospitals, and Safe Kids coalitions that provide free or discounted car seats. Visit our free car seats in Wisconsin page for a complete list of resources.
3. Get your installation checked. Find a certified car seat technician near you through the NHTSA car seat inspection locator to make sure your seat is properly installed.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can my child stop using a booster seat in Wisconsin?
Your child can stop using a booster seat when they reach age 8, weigh more than 80 pounds, or are taller than 4 feet 9 inches — whichever comes first. After that, they must use a regular seat belt.
Does Wisconsin require rear-facing car seats?
Yes. Wisconsin requires children under 1 year old or under 20 pounds to be in a rear-facing seat. The AAP recommends rear-facing until at least age 2. See our car seat safety basics for detailed guidance.
What is the fine for a car seat violation in Wisconsin?
For children under 4, the penalty is $175.30. For children ages 4-8, it starts at $150.10 and increases to $263.50 for repeat offenses.
Does Wisconsin require car seats in the back seat?
Yes. Wisconsin law requires children in car seats and booster seats to ride in the back seat when the vehicle has one. This is a legal requirement.
Are car seats required in Uber or Lyft in Wisconsin?
Yes. Wisconsin’s child restraint law applies to all motor vehicles, including rideshares. Parents must provide their own car seat. Browse our safest car seat brands for portable options.
Why does Wisconsin have such high child traffic fatality rates?
Wisconsin has the highest percentage of child traffic fatalities in the U.S. at 4.6%. Contributing factors include rural road conditions, impaired driving, and inconsistent car seat use. Proper restraint use is the single most effective way to protect your child.
