Drivers and passengers are required by Missouri law to wear a seatbelt at all times while the vehicle is being operated. It is also the driver’s responsibility to ensure that any passenger under the age of 16 has their seatbelt on. Individuals who are 16 and older are in charge of themselves. Failing to properly use a seatbelt can result in a fine and court costs. In regard to child safety restraints:
Children under the age of 4 years old or less than 40 pounds must be buckled into an appropriate child safety seat.
Children between the ages of 4 and 7 who weigh at least 40 pounds must be buckled into an appropriate child safety seat or booster seat.
Children over 8, or who weigh at least 80 pounds, or are 4’9” or taller, must have an appropriate booster seat or a seat belt.
The only exceptions to Missouri’s seatbelt laws are: a doctor’s letter stating that a physical condition prevents use of a seatbelt, those riding in an automobile manufactured prior to 1968, postal carriers, vehicles designed to carry more than 10 people, trucks, and cycles, and vehicles for activities related to agricultural work.