The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is committed to the safety of our youngest residents. Through the federally funded Child Safety Seat Program, DDOT provides crucial resources and education to parents and caregivers in Washington DC, emphasizing the life-saving importance of proper car seat use for every child, on every ride. This collaborative initiative, involving DDOT, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), the DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and Safe Kids Washington DC, ensures District families have access to free car seats and expert guidance.
Access Free Car Seats and Booster Seats
Project Safe-Child offers District residents with infants and toddlers an invaluable resource: free car seats. Furthermore, booster seats are available at no cost for children who are at least four years old and weigh a minimum of 30 pounds. To obtain a free car seat, residents with a valid government-issued ID can participate in the voucher program.
Vouchers are distributed by appointment only at the DDOT Headquarters, located at 250 M Street, SE. For added convenience, vouchers are also available at various locations throughout the District, including:
- Children’s National Hospital
- Garfield Elementary School
- Tubman Elementary School
- Various health and youth centers
Redeem your voucher and receive your free car seat, or obtain a booster seat directly, at designated distribution points. Crucially, Certified Passenger Child Safety Technicians will be on-site to expertly install the car seats. These technicians will also provide parents and caregivers with essential education on the correct and consistent use of child safety seats, ensuring your peace of mind and your child’s safety. Free car seat inspections are also readily available at these locations, without needing an appointment.
Enhance Your Knowledge with Child Passenger Safety Workshops
Deepen your understanding of child passenger safety by attending a FREE 2- to 4-hour workshop. These workshops are designed to comprehensively cover District laws regarding child passenger safety, guide you in selecting the appropriate child restraint system for your child, and demonstrate correct installation techniques. A key focus is reinforcing the critical habit of properly buckling up children on every single journey, no matter how short. Workshops are conveniently offered monthly across the District and can also be arranged upon request to suit community needs.
Become a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician
For those passionate about child safety and looking to make a significant community impact, the National Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) Certification Training Program offers an unparalleled opportunity. This intensive 32-hour, four-day program equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to become nationally certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians. The curriculum combines classroom learning with practical, hands-on activities, both indoors and outdoors. Participants will engage in skill assessments using various car seats and vehicles, and participate in a community safety checkup event, gaining real-world experience. Upon certification, CPSTs play a vital role in educating families at public safety events, conducting private car seat clinics, and leading workshops, contributing to safer communities for children.
Contact Us for More Information
For further details about the Free Car Seat Program and its initiatives, please reach out to the District Department of Transportation.
District Department of Transportation
250 M Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Contact: Karen Gay, [email protected], (202) 409-0234, or [email protected].
