European seats?

mydogteaser

New member
My brother is in the Navy and he is stationed in Italy. He and his wife are expecting their first baby in December. My SIL told me today that she is excited to buy a European seat because then when they get back to the States their baby will have something unique. (Her words, not mine.) Is it legal to use a European car seat in the States?

Heidi
 
ADS

InternationalMama

New member
No, it's not legal to use a European car seat in the US. It may be legal if you are visiting (sometimes people say you can use one if you're visiting for 2 weeks or less, but I've never seen this verified), but it is definitely not legal if you live here.

It is legal, however, for people in the US military to use US seats while living overseas and a US seat will almost certainly be cheaper, in addition to being better for travel. (Almost all EU infant seats cannot be used with a lap belt only and most are not approved for use in aircraft. None are FAA-approved (obviously).)
 

mydogteaser

New member
That's what I thought! She tried to tell me that it is legal to use them in the U.S. if they meet the same safety standards. (Which made me laugh since the U.S. isn't exactly on par with Europe with child restraint laws and standards.) I will pass on the info to her. Thanks!

Heidi
 

wendytthomas

Admin - CPST Instructor
Staff member
Mainland Europe we're beyond them in terms of carseats (we rear face and harness longer, they require boosters longer). Scandinavia we're catching up to.

Wendy
 

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