Child Passenger Seat Safety
Get hands-on help choosing, installing, and using your child's car seat from a nationally certified Child Passenger Safety Technician.
A safer ride starts with the right fit
Car seats are not one-size-fits-all. The right seat and installation depend on the child's age, height and weight, the specific car seat, and the vehicle. Even experienced parents and caregivers can run into confusing belt paths, anchors, tethers, recline angles, or harness adjustments.
During an inspection, Sgt. Josh Stein will work with you—not simply install the seat for you—so you leave feeling confident that you can secure the seat and buckle your child correctly on every trip.
What the certification requires
National Child Passenger Safety Certification is managed by Safe Kids Worldwide using a curriculum developed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The intensive course usually runs three to four days and requires attendance throughout the entire program.
Classroom instruction
National best practices, child restraint systems, vehicle compatibility, and caregiver education.
Hands-on training
Practical work with multiple car seat types and real vehicles.
Skills and written tests
Passing written quizzes and hands-on skills assessments is required.
Community checkup event
Candidates demonstrate both technical ability and clear caregiver communication.
What we can check
- Whether the seat is appropriate for your child’s age, height, and weight
- Rear-facing and forward-facing seat installation
- Booster seat and seat belt fit
- Seat belt, lower-anchor, and top-tether use
- Harness height, tightness, and chest-clip position
- Expiration, recall, damage, and seat-history concerns
Prepare for your appointment
- 1Call ahead to schedule and allow approximately 30–60 minutes for each seat.
- 2Bring your child when possible, along with their current height and weight.
- 3Bring the car seat instructions and your vehicle owner’s manual.
- 4Try installing the seat before arriving. The appointment is designed to help you learn and practice.
Schedule a child safety seat check
Call the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office and ask to schedule an appointment with Sgt. Josh Stein. For expectant families, Safe Kids recommends scheduling four to six weeks before the baby's due date.
(260) 925-3365