Driving with kids in West Virginia? Here’s exactly what West Virginia law requires for car seats and booster seats — the age and weight thresholds, the fines, and the front-seat rules — drawn from the official West Virginia Legislature and the statute itself, not a blog summary.
Law data last verified against official state sources: October 4, 2026.
Quick answer
West Virginia requires children under 8 to ride in a child passenger safety device meeting federal standards (under-8s at 4’9″+ may use a belt). Misdemeanor fine: $10–$20.
West Virginia car seat requirements by age and size
| Stage | What West Virginia law requires |
|---|---|
| Rear-facing | Not specified in state law (statute requires a “child passenger safety device system” meeting federal standards; no rear/forward/booster stages). |
| Forward-facing | Not specified in state law. |
| Booster seat | Not specified as a separate stage in state law (children under 8 must be in a child passenger safety device system; a child under 8 who is at least 4′ 9″ tall may use a safety belt). |
| Seat belt only | Age 8 (or under 8 if at least 4′ 9″ tall). |
Fines and penalties in West Virginia
Fine: Misdemeanor — fined not less than $10 nor more than $20.
Front seat rules in West Virginia
Front-seat rule: not specified in state law. Note: .
The official law
- Statute: W. Va. Code § 17C-15-46
- Official source: West Virginia Legislature
Research note: West Virginia’s statute sets no rear/forward/booster stages — only an age-triggered restraint requirement.
West Virginia car seat law FAQs
What is the fine for a car seat violation in West Virginia?
Fine: Misdemeanor — fined not less than $10 nor more than $20.
When can my child stop using a booster seat in West Virginia?
Not specified as a separate stage in state law (children under 8 must be in a child passenger safety device system; a child under 8 who is at least 4′ 9″ tall may use a safety belt). Age 8 (or under 8 if at least 4′ 9″ tall).
Does West Virginia law require rear-facing car seats?
Not specified in state law (statute requires a “child passenger safety device system” meeting federal standards; no rear/forward/booster stages).
Can my child ride in the front seat in West Virginia?
Front-seat rule: not specified in state law. Note: .
Where can I read the official West Virginia car seat law?
Statute: W. Va. Code § 17C-15-46 Official source: West Virginia Legislature.
Check another state
Driving across state lines? Requirements change at the border — use our interactive car seat law checker to look up any state by your child’s age, weight, and height.
Related state guides:
This page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Child passenger safety laws change — always verify current requirements with your state’s DMV, highway safety office, or the official statute linked below before making decisions.