Planning a Florida road trip with kids in 2025? Here’s the simple, up‑to‑date guide to child seats that every visitor should read before pickup. We’ll cover what the law requires, how to rent the right seat, and quick safety checks—so you can focus on the fun.
Florida child seat law, made easy (2025)
The rule: If a child is 5 years old or younger, they must ride in a crash‑tested, federally approved restraint. Ages 0–3 require a separate infant/toddler seat or an integrated child seat. Ages 4–5 can use a booster, an integrated seat, or a child seat that fits their height and weight. From 6–17, a seat belt is mandatory in every seating position.
Tourists take note: Florida’s law applies to everyone driving in the state—no exceptions for out‑of‑state licenses. When in doubt, choose the more protective option and keep kids in a booster until they pass the five‑step belt fit test (knees bend at the edge of the seat, lap belt low on hips, shoulder belt across chest, back flat, and they can stay seated like that for the whole trip).
Renting the right seat with Hola Car Rentals
With Hola Car Rentals you can add infant, convertible, or booster seats during booking and still keep costs under control. Our All‑Inclusive+ rate is designed for peace of mind: maximum coverage, transparent pricing, and perks like Cashback on tolls. Flying into Miami? Start at Miami Airport car rental. If you’re heading to the theme parks, compare Orlando car hire to find the best pick‑up point.
Quick safety checklist before you roll
- Rear‑facing as long as possible. It’s the safest orientation for infants and toddlers within your seat’s limits.
- Harness at armpit level. The chest clip sits at the sternum—not the belly or neck.
- No bulky coats in the seat. Use thin layers and a blanket over the harness if needed.
- Install once, check twice. The seat should move less than an inch at the belt path.
Common traveler questions
Can I use rideshare without a car seat? Florida’s restraint law applies regardless of who’s driving. If your child needs a seat in a rental car, they’ll also need one in rideshare.
Can my 5‑year‑old just use a seat belt? The law allows a booster or child seat at 4–5, and most kids aren’t belt‑ready until 8–12. Use a booster until the belt fits correctly.
Where should we book? For beach stays, Downtown options are convenient—see Downtown Miami car hire. If your trip crosses coasts later, keep plans flexible and compare New York car hire at JFK or Los Angeles Airport car rental for multi‑city itineraries.
Why book with Hola Car Rentals
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick‑up.
- All‑Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage and no hidden fees—save up to 60%.
- Free travel insurance up to US$150,000 and maximum liability coverage on selected itineraries.
- Cashback on tolls to cut driving costs across Florida.
Ready to roll? Reserve your family‑friendly car and child seat with Hola Car Rentals today and drive Florida with confidence.
