New Car Seat Regulations
Beginning June 30, 2025, all car seats sold in the United States must comply with new federal safety regulations designed to provide enhanced protection for children during side-impact collisions. The updated standards, issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), represent a major step forward in child passenger safety.
A Long-Awaited Update
For years, consumer safety advocates have pushed for stricter federal guidelines addressing side-impact crashes—one of the most dangerous types of vehicle accidents for children. While existing standards focused primarily on front-impact collisions, the new rules require manufacturers to design and test car seats for side-impact performance as well.
“These regulations are based on decades of crash data and extensive testing,” said NHTSA Administrator Sophie Johnson. “They are specifically crafted to better protect children’s heads, necks, and torsos in the event of a side collision.”
Key Features of the New Regulations
The updated federal standard, known as FMVSS 213 (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213), now includes:
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Side-impact testing protocols using a specially designed sled test simulating T-bone crashes at 30 mph.
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Enhanced head and neck protection requirements, particularly for infants and toddlers in rear-facing and forward-facing seats.
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Improved labeling and instructions to ensure parents and caregivers correctly install and use the seats.
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Mandatory compliance for all manufacturers by June 30, 2025, with no grace period for older models manufactured after that date.
What Parents Need to Know
Consumers are encouraged to check manufacturing dates and certification labels when purchasing new car seats after June 30. Seats that do not meet the updated requirements will no longer be allowed on the market. Existing car seats manufactured before the deadline may still be used, provided they have not expired and are in good condition. However, safety experts recommend upgrading to a compliant model when possible.
“Parents should not panic if they own an older seat, but they should be aware of the improved safety benefits offered by newer models,” said Jessica Hernandez, a certified child passenger safety technician. “Any car seat used correctly is far better than one used improperly or not at all.”
Industry Response and Availability
Most major manufacturers, including Graco, Britax, Chicco, and Evenflo, have already introduced compliant models to retailers. Many have welcomed the new standards, stating that they align with the companies’ own internal safety protocols.
Retailers are expected to clear out non-compliant inventory in the coming weeks. Starting July 1, consumers should begin to see updated labels indicating compliance with the new side-impact standard.
Resources and Support
NHTSA has launched an information campaign to help parents and caregivers navigate the transition. A list of certified car seats and a downloadable installation guide are available at www.nhtsa.gov/carseat.
Final Thoughts
The new car seat regulations mark a significant milestone in vehicle safety policy. By addressing the dangers of side-impact crashes more directly, the federal government hopes to reduce injuries and save lives—especially among the most vulnerable passengers on the road.
For parents, caregivers, and child safety advocates, this change offers reassurance that car seats are now safer than ever before.
