Each Canadian province and territory has their own laws that govern the use of car seats, booster seats, and seat belts according to the child’s age, height, and weight. The law is the minimum safety standard that can be enforced. It is often safer to remain in each stage until the maximum limit of your child’s seat has been reached. Check your seat for the height, weight, and age limits.
Learn more about the best way to choose, install, and use a car seat.
Learn more about when to use a booster seat and when to transition to the adult seat belt.
Car seat and booster seat laws in Newfoundland and Labrador
It is the law in Newfoundland and Labrador that children travelling in vehicles are safely secured in a car seat or booster seat that is appropriate for their age, weight, and height, and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Rear-facing car seat
All infants must be secured in a rear-facing seat until they’re at least 9 kg (20 pounds). Note: According to Canadian car seat regulations, no car seat may be used forward facing before 10 kg (22 pounds).
Forward-facing car seat
A child must be at least 1 year and 9 kg (20 pounds) before using a forward-facing seat. A child must remain in a car seat with a 5-point harness until they are a minimum of 18 kg (40 pounds).
Booster seat
A child must weigh a minimum of 18 kg (40 lb) before moving to a booster seat. The child must continue to use a booster seat until they’re 9 years old or both 37 kg (81.5 pounds) and 145 cm (4 feet 9 inches) tall.
Seat belt
According to the law, a child may use an adult seat belt once they are 9 years old, however, it is safest to remain in a booster seat until they’re also 145 cm (4 feet, 9 inches) tall and 37 kg (81.5 pounds).
The driver is responsible to ensure that all passengers under the age of 16 are securely buckled in the right car seat, booster seat, or seat belt.
For more information on Newfoundland and Labrador Child Passenger legislation call Child Safety Link at 1-866-288-1388 or visit the Newfoundland and Labrador Government website.