Ensuring the safety of children in vehicles is paramount, and Riverside County offers comprehensive Car Seat Programs to support residents in this crucial aspect of child passenger safety. These programs range from educational courses for traffic violation offenders to low-cost car seat distribution, and even professional training for Child Passenger Safety (CPS) technicians. Riverside County is committed to making roads safer for its youngest passengers through these vital initiatives.
Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program (VOPD)
The Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program (VOPD) is designed as a two-hour educational intervention for individuals who have received citations for car seat or seat belt violations in Riverside County. This program offers participants the opportunity to have their fines reduced upon completion of the class. A key requirement for those cited for car seat infractions is to bring a federally approved car seat, free of recalls, to the class to ensure they are using compliant and safe equipment.
Trained professionals lead the VOPD classes, delivering essential education on the critical importance of seat belt use for all occupants. Furthermore, the program emphasizes the serious risks associated with the incorrect or lack of child restraints in vehicles. Participants gain valuable knowledge and practical understanding to better protect child passengers.
For more detailed information about the Vehicle Occupant Diversion Program, please reach out to (951) 358-7171.
Low Cost Car Seat Distribution Program
Recognizing the financial barriers some families face in accessing safe car seats, Riverside County has established a widely recognized Low Cost Car Seat Program. This initiative provides car seats, booster seats, and crucial safety education to eligible residents. Families who are enrolled in low-income assistance programs such as Medi-Cal or WIC are encouraged to apply. The registration process begins by calling 1-800-455-4942. Eligible participants are required to attend a one-hour safety class, available in both English and Spanish, after which they will receive a car seat or booster seat.
Classes are conveniently held at 10 locations across Riverside County. It is important to note that these classes are for adults only, as childcare services are not available on site. To partially sustain the program and ensure its continued operation, a modest fee of $30 per child seat is required. This fee must be paid in advance via money order by all participants.
To connect with a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician for expert guidance, please call 1-951-358-7171.
Become a Certified CPS Technician
For those passionate about child passenger safety and interested in taking a more active role, Riverside County supports the training and certification of Child Passenger Safety Technicians.
National Standardized Child Passenger Safety Renewal Course in Riverside County
This renewal course is specifically designed for previously certified CPS technicians whose certification has expired. This course allows technicians to regain their certification without repeating the full 32-hour initial training. The curriculum provides a concise review of the essential technical information from the most recent National Standardized Child Passenger Safety Technician Training Program curriculum (updated in 2004) and includes hands-on skills evaluation to verify competency.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Standardized Child Passenger Safety Technician Training
For individuals seeking comprehensive training to become nationally certified CPS technicians, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Standardized Child Passenger Safety Technician Training is offered in a five-day intensive format. This course delivers the most thorough training and resources in child passenger safety. Successful completion of both the course and a practical skills clinic are mandatory steps to achieve national certification as a CPS technician. Participants benefit from extensive hands-on practice alongside classroom-based learning, ensuring they are well-prepared to educate and assist families in correctly using car seats.
