Car Seat Transition Guide
You’re not alone—many parents wonder when it’s time to move their child to the next car seat stage. In fact, about 1 in 4 kids move too soon—often because fit is about height and weight, not just age. At The Pump Station, our Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPST) can help you decide the right time and the right seat for your little one—so you can avoid switching too early or too late.
When to Move from Infant to Convertible Seat
Check your baby’s current fit and compare it to your seat’s manufacturer limits. Your baby may be ready to move to a rear-facing convertible or all-in-one car seat if:
• They exceed the car seat’s weight limit
• They exceed the car seat’s height limit
• There is less than 1 inch from the top of their head to the top of the seat shell
💡 Parent Tip: Long or bent legs are not a sign your child needs to move to the next seat. Rear-facing is safest as long as your seat allows.
When to Move to a Booster Seat
Your child is ready for a booster seat when they have outgrown their forward-facing seat with a harness—based on height and weight limits, not just age.
Typically, this is between ages 4–8, or when your child is about 4’9” tall. The booster helps position the seat belt so it sits across the stronger parts of the body—hips and chest—rather than the stomach or neck.
State Law Variances
Booster seat laws vary from state to state:
• Some require boosters until age 8
• Others use a height requirement, like 57 inches (about 4’9”)
Check your state’s laws—and any you may travel to—so you’re always compliant and safe.
The Safest Car Seat
The safest seat isn’t necessarily the most expensive—it’s the one that:
• Fits your child’s height and weight
• Fits properly in your vehicle
• Is installed and used correctly every time
Proper installation can reduce fatal injury risk by up to 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers. However, nearly half of all car seats are installed incorrectly. That’s why The Pump Station offers FREE installation checks and education with our certified CPSTs.
Pump Station Perks
• Certified CPST on staff to help select, install, and check your car seat
• Guidance on when to move to the next seat based on your child’s size and needs
• Free installation checks to ensure your seat is secure
• Ongoing support as your child grows—so you can be confident you’re always using the safest seat for your little one
Your child’s safety is our priority. Schedule your car seat check with The Pump Station today—because the safest seat is the one that fits your child, your car, and is installed properly.
Email Adam@PumpStation.com or call the store at 310-998-1981 to schedule your private appointment.
