A 7 year old should be in a booster seat. Booster seats are designed to safely raise the child up so that the seat belt fits correctly, and provide optimal protection during a car crash. When using a booster seat, make sure that lap portion of the belt is securely across your child’s hips and thighs, not stomach; while the shoulder portion should fit snugly across their chest and shoulders. It is recommended that children stay in a booster until they reach 4 feet 9 inches tall or 80-100 pounds (whichever comes first). Be sure to check with your local laws regarding carseat use as some states have different regulations for when it's time to transition out of a booster.