Which child would require a child passenger restraint system?

1. A 9-year-old who is 4 feet 10 inches tall
2. A 10-year-old who is 5 feet 3 inches tall
3. A 7-year-old who is 4 feet 8 inches tall ✓

Answer: C. A 7-year-old who is 4 feet 8 inches tall

The 7-year-old who is 4 feet 8 inches tall needs a child passenger restraint system.

Why this is the answer

The handbook sets the cutoff two ways: a child must ride in a federally-approved child passenger restraint system if they are under 8 years old, or if they are shorter than 4 feet 9 inches. This child meets both parts, so a restraint is required in a rear seat. Only children who are 8 or older, or who reach 4 feet 9 inches, may use a regular safety belt instead.

Why the other answers are wrong

• A. A 9-year-old who is 4 feet 10 inches tall — This child is 9 years old and 4 feet 10 inches tall, so both the age and height conditions for a restraint system are past.
• B. A 10-year-old who is 5 feet 3 inches tall — At 10 years old and 5 feet 3 inches, this child is well beyond the age and height limits that call for a child passenger restraint system.

Remember it

Remember it as a two-part test: a child still needs a restraint if they are under 8 years old or shorter than 4 feet 9 inches, whichever one applies to them.