No,Texas does not require short adults to use a booster seat while driving.

A viral graphic claiming that any driver under 5 feet 2 inches tall must legally use a booster seat to drive in Texas has been circulating online.State officials say the post is a hoax.

Not a hoax:Texas does have a passenger safety seat law — everyone must be buckled up.(That includes you,backseat drivers.)

Other parts of the law are designed to protect children,and with more kids riding in cars now that school is back in session,it’s a good time for a refresher.

What Texas law actually says

It’s illegal to drive with a child younger than 8 in your vehicle unless that child is secured in a child passenger safety seat system,installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.(If the child is taller than 4 feet 9 inches,a regular seat belt is sufficient.)

Car seats and boosters vary widely in their requirements,so it’s worth getting to know the specific seat you’re using as your child grows and keeping its manual for reference.

Get a free seat check

You don’t have to figure it out alone.TxDOT and other organizations offer free car seat safety checks across the state year-round,during which certified technicians ensure a seat is installed correctly.

For Houston-area appointments,visitlovemycarseat.orgorsafekidsgreaterhouston.org.

Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s Center for Transportation Safety also supports child passenger safety research and outreach atcts.tti.tamu.edu/child-passenger-safety.

Child Passenger Safety Week is coming up

Child Passenger Safety Week runs September 20–26,2026.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA)uses the week to educate parents and caregivers on how to select,install and use car seats,booster seats and seat belts correctly.

Core safety tips for the week — and every week

• Keep infants and toddlers rear-facing until they hit the top height or weight limit for their specific seat.
• Don’t rush the transitions.Moving a child to a forward-facing seat or a booster too early is a common mistake.
• Check the harness fit.After buckling your child in,try pinching the shoulder strap material between your thumb and finger.If you can grab a fold or pinch of loose strap,the harness is too loose.
• Watch seat expiration.Avoid using a secondhand seat unless you know its full history — most seats expire 7 to 10 years after manufacture.

Why it matters

Car crashes remain a leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13,and NHTSA research shows many of those deaths and injuries are preventable with the correct seat,properly installed.One more tip:register any car seat or booster with the manufacturer so you’re notified in case of a recall.Parents can find more information atnhtsa.gov/carseat.