In Illinois, a child can legally sit in the front seat of a vehicle once they are 12 years old. However, it is strongly recommended by safety experts and state guidelines that children under 13 years of age continue to ride in the back seat, as it is safer for them. The law also emphasizes using appropriate child restraints based on the child's age, height, and weight, and advises keeping younger children in the back seat for their safety. If the vehicle has no back seat, a child may sit in the front seat only if properly restrained and the front passenger airbag is disabled.
Key Points on Illinois Child Front Seat Laws:
- Children under 8 years must be properly secured in appropriate child safety seats (rear-facing, forward-facing, or booster seats depending on age and size) and ride in the back seat.
- Children aged 8 to 12 should continue to ride in the back seat and preferably use booster seats until they fit adult seat belts properly.
- Children 12 years and older can legally sit in the front seat.
- Safety experts recommend children under 13 remain in the back seat due to increased injury risks.
- If no back seat is available (e.g., two-seater vehicle), children can sit in the front only if restrained properly and with the airbag turned off.
These regulations align with the Illinois Child Passenger Protection Act and safety recommendations from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the American Academy of Pediatrics.
