National Seat Check Saturday highlights the importance of using the correct child safety seat in a vehicle. Held every year on the fourth Saturday of September, the day encourages parents and caregivers to make sure car seats are properly selected, installed, and used.
History of National Seat Check Saturday
National Seat Check Saturday is part of Child Passenger Safety Week, a campaign supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The observance was created to help reduce child injuries and deaths in motor vehicle crashes by promoting proper car seat use.
Certified child passenger safety technicians often take part by checking car seats, answering questions, and helping families understand age, height, and weight requirements. The day reminds caregivers that even a good car seat may not protect a child properly if it is installed or used incorrectly.
Interesting Facts About National Seat Check Saturday
- National Seat Check Saturday is observed on the fourth Saturday of September each year.
- Car seats should be chosen based on a child’s age, height, weight, and developmental stage.
- Rear-facing seats, forward-facing seats, booster seats, and seat belts are used at different stages of childhood.
- Many car seats are installed incorrectly, which can reduce their effectiveness in a crash.
- Certified technicians can help parents and caregivers check whether a child safety seat is installed properly.
Ways to Observe National Seat Check Saturday
Check your child’s car seat instructions and your vehicle owner’s manual to make sure the seat is installed correctly. Visit a local car seat inspection event or ask a certified child passenger safety technician for help. You can also share reliable safety information with other parents and caregivers and remind them to check that children are riding in the right seat for their size and age.
When Is National Seat Check Saturday in 2026?
National Seat Check Saturday is observed on the fourth Saturday of September each year.
Observations
| Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
| Saturday | September | 26 | 2026 |
| Saturday | September | 25 | 2027 |
| Saturday | September | 23 | 2028 |
| Saturday | September | 22 | 2029 |


