When Can I Turn My Baby Around to Face Forward in the Car?

When can babies face forward in car seats? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children should remain in rear-facing car seats until they have outgrown the car seat height and weight limits.¹ Here's why.

While being one year old and at least 20 pounds used to be the standard for flipping car seats around, most experts now recommend using rear-facing child seats until children outgrow the manufacturer's top weight and height recommendations. This change means your child may be rear-facing until well beyond their second birthday.

There are some situations in which facing backward may seem uncomfortable for a child—such as long road trips when the little one’s legs are cramped against the back of the seat. You shouldn’t let the baby face forward in the car simply because they seem uncomfortable or don’t like to face the rear.

Tots are generally very flexible. Even when they seem cramped up by adult standards, they can actually be quite comfortable.

Adding a mirror that allows your child to see themselves (and you) while you are driving can help alleviate stress and boredom. And, taking breaks during long trips can give your little ones time to stretch their legs.

• Best Car Seats
• Best Booster Seats
• How Long Do Car Seats Last?
• What are the Child Passenger Safety Laws in Every State?
• When Can a Child Switch to a Regular Seatbelt?

1. American Academy of Pediatrics, “Car Seats: Information for Families," December 22, 2021. Accessed November 9, 2023.