Where to get a free or low-cost car seat
- Medicaid health plans: some plans give car seats to members who are pregnant or have young children. Call the number on your card.
- WIC offices and local health departments often run car seat programs or can refer you.
- Hospitals and birthing centers may offer seats or classes for new parents.
- Safe Kids coalitions hold car seat events in many communities.
- Fire and police departments sometimes give seats or host check-up events.
- Call 2-1-1 to find programs near you.
Get a free car seat check
Many car seats are installed incorrectly. Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians check installations for free at inspection stations and events. NHTSA's website lists car seat inspection locations by ZIP code.
Car seat safety tips
- Keep children rear-facing as long as the seat allows
- Do not use a seat that has been in a crash, is past its expiration date or has missing parts
- Register your seat with the manufacturer so you get recall notices
- Be careful with secondhand seats if you do not know their history
Choosing the right seat
- Rear-facing seats for babies and young toddlers
- Forward-facing seats with a harness once children outgrow rear-facing limits
- Booster seats until the adult seat belt fits correctly
Follow the height and weight limits on your seat's label and your state's law.
Frequently asked questions
Does WIC give free car seats?
WIC itself does not always provide seats, but many WIC offices partner with car seat programs or can refer you to one.
Do car seats expire?
Yes. Most seats have an expiration date on a label or stamped into the plastic, often 6 to 10 years after manufacture.
Related help
Find help in your state
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- New York
- Pennsylvania
- Ohio
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- Michigan
- Illinois
- All 50 states + DC
Reviewed November 2026. This page was researched using official government and program sources. Programs change often, so please confirm details with each program before applying. How we research.