A family picking up a rental car at an airport in California, with parents installing a child seat in a blue SUV.

California child seats and rentals: what the law expects of you

California requires proper child restraints for young passengers. Reserve seats early with Hola Car Rentals or add th...

2 min de lecture

Quick Summary

  • California law requires children to travel in appropriate child restraints based on age, height and weight.
  • You can add a child seat to your booking, but reserving early guarantees availability at the counter.
  • Plan installation time at pick up and choose a vehicle class that fits your family layout.

What the rules mean for visitors

After landing at LAX and joining the 405 or 105, you will see clear messages about seat belt and child restraint compliance. The rule is simple for travellers. Children must ride in a suitable restraint and usually in the back seat. Because the specifics depend on your child’s size, it is best to plan your equipment before you fly. When you compare Los Angeles car hire deals with Hola Car Rentals, you can add child seats during checkout.

Adding a seat at pick up

Child seats are available at most locations in infant, convertible and booster formats. You can request one at the desk, but stock is first come first served. Reserving in advance with Hola Car Rentals places a seat on your booking so the team can prepare it. San Francisco travellers who want to road trip Highway 1 should secure the unit ahead of time using our San Francisco pick up options. Families starting in America’s Finest City can review sizes and classes through our San Diego airport counters page and match a vehicle to their seats.

Practical fitting tips

Give yourself extra time at the garage to install the restraint carefully and check the angle and belt routing. Many models use ISOFIX or LATCH points that are easier to access in SUVs and minivans. Sliding doors and second row space make buckling simpler, which is why our family minivan options are popular with parents of toddlers and infants.

Should you bring your own seat

Many families do. If you bring one, pack the manual, check that it is approved for use in the United States, and inspect any base for airline wear before installing. If you prefer to travel light, booking a seat with Hola Car Rentals is the easiest route. For timing and planning around family fleets at LAX, we have a dedicated explainer on when to book a family minivan in LA.

Why families choose Hola Car Rentals

Hola Car Rentals makes family travel straightforward with Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick up, All Inclusive+ Rate with maximum coverage, and No additional fees, save 60 percent guaranteed on selected deals. Pick the car class that suits your layout, reserve the seats you need, and collect everything in one smooth stop at the airport.

Make your California trip easier from the first buckle. Book with Hola Car Rentals and travel confident that your crew is seated safely and comfortably.