The Illinois Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Safety Programs and Engineering (BSPE) supports child passenger safety (CPS) and the state’s over 1800 certified CPS technicians and instructors by offering training, continuing education, and support materials to educate caregivers on the proper use of car seats, booster seats and seat belts.

According to Illinois law, children must be restrained in an appropriate car seat/booster seat until age eight (8), and rear-facing until at least age two (2), but proper selection and use are best determined on a case-by-case basis. It is recommended that children stay restrained in their car seats until they outgrow the height and weight limit set by the seat’s manufacturer. This often means keeping children rear-facing beyond age 2 and in boosters far beyond age 8.

In Illinois and across the United States, 4 out of 5 car seats are installed incorrectly. Simple mistakes can have devasting consequences. Finding the right seat for your child depends on many factors, and the easiest way to ensure everyone is traveling safely is to have your car seat checked by a certified CPS Technician. Car seat inspection stations operate across Illinois. Search the map to find an active inspection station in your area or go to NHTSA.gov to learn more.