Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) Restraint System

Additional Resources

The Facts - 3 out of 4 car seats are not used correctly

Every year, thousands of young children are killed or injured in crashes, mainly because 3 out of every 4 children in child safety seats are not properly secured, or even worse, not restrained at all.

Confused About How to Use It Right?

In too many instances, parents are confused about how to correctly install their child's seat, don't know that every seat doesn't fit in every car, or they don't realize that their vehicle is equipped with the Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system.

LATCH - Easier to get it right

NHTSA is here to help you. Nearly every car seat and most vehicles manufactured since September 1, 2002, are required to have the LATCH system. LATCH makes it easier to get the child seat in right - the first time and every time.

Take Action Today to Protect Your Child

We know that as a parent or caregiver, you will do everything in your power to protect your children. You'll find here all the information you need to understand and use the LATCH system correctly and safeguard your child. Always follow the installation instructions provided by your car seat manufacturer and your vehicle owner's manual.

LATCH Information	English	Spanish
Installation Instructions
Definitions
FAQs
Poster
Simple Facts - Handout

LATCH Instructional Videos (click on the image for online viewing)
Rear-Facing Car Seat (download video)	Rear-Facing Convertible Seat (download video)	Forward-Facing Convertible Seat (download video)	Forward-Facing Car Seat (download video)