Check safety certification, expiration date, and recall history

Before using any car seat, confirm it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 213 (FMVSS 213) by checking the label on the seat. Also verify the expiration date and check for recalls. An expired, recalled, or non-compliant seat may not protect your child in a crash.

What to Check

• Certification label: Every car seat sold in the U.S. must have a label stating it meets FMVSS 213. This label is typically on the side or back of the seat.
• Expiration date: Car seats expire, usually 6-10 years after manufacture. Plastic and foam degrade over time, especially with heat and UV exposure in vehicles. The date is printed on a sticker or molded into the plastic shell.
• Recall status: Check the NHTSA recall database at nhtsa.gov/recalls or register your seat with the manufacturer to receive recall notices automatically.

Tips

• Never use a car seat after a moderate or severe crash -- the structure may be compromised even if no damage is visible. NHTSA defines criteria for when a seat must be replaced after a crash.
• Do not buy used car seats unless you know the full history (no crashes, no recalls, not expired)
• Register your car seat with the manufacturer so you receive recall notifications directly
• If a seat is recalled, contact the manufacturer for a free repair kit or replacement -- do not continue using it unmodified