Proudly Canadian Owned and OperatedCar Seat Requirements Checker
Find out what car seat your child needs based on Canadian provincial regulations. Enter your child's details below for a personalized recommendation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the car seat laws in Canada?
Car seat laws in Canada vary by province, but generally children must ride in a rear-facing car seat until at least 10 kg (22 lbs), a forward-facing seat with harness until at least 18 kg (40 lbs), and a booster seat until they are 145 cm (4'9") tall or between 6-9 years old depending on the province.
When can my child switch from rear-facing to forward-facing?
While provincial minimums vary (typically 9-10 kg), Transport Canada and child safety experts strongly recommend keeping children rear-facing until at least age 2. Many convertible car seats allow rear-facing up to 18 kg (40 lbs) or more.
When can my child stop using a booster seat in Canada?
This depends on your province. Most provinces require a booster until the child is 145 cm (4'9") tall. Age requirements range from 6 (Alberta) to 9 (BC, Ontario, Quebec). Children must meet BOTH age/weight AND height requirements.
Do I need a car seat when visiting Canada?
Yes! Canadian car seat laws apply to everyone driving in the province, including visitors and tourists. If you're flying into Canada, you can rent a car seat from WeeTravel — we deliver to hotels and airports in Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Victoria.
Can I use a car seat from the United States in Canada?
Car seats must meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS) or US FMVSS standards to be used legally in Canada. Most US car seats comply. Look for the CMVSS or FMVSS label on the seat.
What type of car seat do I need for a newborn?
Newborns need a rear-facing infant car seat or a rear-facing convertible car seat. Infant seats are convenient for travel as they have a detachable carrier. Make sure the seat is installed at a 45° angle and the harness fits snugly.
Car Seat Laws in Canada by Province
Car seat requirements in Canada are set by each province and territory. While the specifics vary, all provinces require children to progress through four stages of car seat safety: rear-facing infant seats, forward-facing seats with a harness, booster seats, and finally a regular seatbelt.
In British Columbia, children must use a booster seat until age 9 or 145 cm tall. Ontario requires a booster until age 8, 36 kg, and 145 cm. Alberta has the youngest age cutoff at 6 years old. Regardless of provincial minimums, safety experts recommend keeping children in each stage as long as possible.
Travelling to Canada and need a car seat? Rent a car seat from WeeTravel — we deliver clean, certified car seats to your hotel or airport in Vancouver, Toronto, Calgary, and Victoria.