Car seat inspection in California

NHTSA’s inspection-station locator lists 100 child car-seat inspection stations in California, in 59 cities; cities with more than one are Los Angeles (18), Pasadena (5), Santa Monica (4). 9 are mobile stations that travel to events. Together they list 8 counties served. Across the country, stations are run by fire and police departments, hospitals, health departments, car dealerships and community groups.

At an inspection, a certified child passenger safety technician checks how your seat is installed and fitted to your child, and shows you how to do it yourself next time. Bring the car, the car seat, both manuals and, if you can, your child. Most stations work by appointment, and hours change, so call the number listed before you go. Many inspections are free; ask when you book.

Before the visit, check the seat itself: look up its make and model on the car-seat recall list, register it with the maker so recall notices reach you, and check the expiration date printed on the seat or label. This list is copied from NHTSA with contact person names removed. If a station has moved or closed, NHTSA’s own locator is the source to trust.