Texas Driver's License Knowledge TestTraffic Laws and RegulationsMedium
A driver is operating a vehicle with a child who is 8 years old and 4 feet, 5 inches tall. According to Texas law, where must this child be secured?
- AWith a regular seat belt in the back seat.
- BWith a regular seat belt in the front seat.
- CIn a federally approved child safety seat or booster seat in the back seat.
- DIn a federally approved child safety seat in the front seat.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. With a regular seat belt in the back seat.
In Texas, children under 8 years old OR under 4 feet 9 inches tall must be secured in a child safety seat or booster. Since this child is 8 years old but still under 4'9" (4'5" = 53 inches), they must still be in a child safety seat or booster. However, the question asks where they must be secured. Children should always be in the back seat if possible, especially when using a child safety seat or booster, to ensure maximum safety.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The child is under 4'9", so a regular seat belt alone is not sufficient; a booster is still needed.
- C. While technically correct that a booster seat is needed due to height, the question asks 'where' they must be secured. The back seat is the safest and preferred location. However, the child is 8, but still under 4'9". So, they need a booster. The best answer combines both the restraint type and location. The critical detail here is the height. 4'5" (53 inches) is less than 4'9" (57 inches). Therefore, a child safety seat or booster is required. And the back seat is the safest place. Option D implies a regular seatbelt which is incorrect.
- D. Child safety seats are generally for the back seat; front seat is less safe and often prohibited with airbags.
Texas Child Safety Seat Law (Height/Age)
In Texas, children younger than 8 years old OR less than 4 feet 9 inches tall must be secured in a child passenger safety seat system, typically in the back seat.
- Under 8 years old OR
- Under 4 feet 9 inches (57 inches) tall
- Must use child safety seat/booster
- Back seat is safest location
Memory trick: Eight years or 4'9"; back seat is fine.