The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is committed to child passenger safety through its federally funded Child Safety Seat Program, known as Project Safe-Child. This initiative is designed to educate parents and caregivers in Washington DC about the critical importance of correctly using child safety seats every time a child travels in a vehicle. The program provides District residents with infants or toddlers a free car seat, and older children a free booster seat, along with essential guidance on proper installation and secure buckling techniques. Project Safe-Child is a collaborative effort involving DDOT, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), the DC Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and Safe Kids Washington DC, all working together to protect children on the road.
Access Free Car Seats and Car Seat Inspections in DC
Project Safe-Child ensures access to free car seats for all District of Columbia residents who possess a valid government-issued ID. These resources are available through two primary avenues:
Voucher Program for Car Seats
Through the voucher program, eligible DC residents can obtain vouchers for free car seats. It’s important to note that voucher distribution at the DDOT Headquarters, located at 250 M Street, SE, and other locations throughout the District, including schools, health centers, and youth centers, is by appointment ONLY. Voucher distribution locations include:
- Children’s National Hospital
- Garfield Elementary School
- Tubman Elementary School
Booster Seat Program
For older children, Project Safe-Child offers a booster seat program providing free booster seats. These are available for children who are at least four years old and weigh a minimum of 30 pounds.
Vouchers for car seats and booster seats are redeemed at designated locations where Certified Passenger Child Safety Technicians are present. These technicians not only distribute the seats but also provide crucial hands-on assistance with proper installation and comprehensive education for parents and caregivers. This education emphasizes the ongoing importance of child safety seats and their correct usage. Free car seat inspections are also available at these locations without the need for an appointment, ensuring ongoing support for families.
Child Passenger Safety Workshops
Project Safe-Child offers FREE 2- to 4-hour workshops dedicated to child passenger safety. These workshops cover essential topics including District laws pertaining to child restraints, guidance on selecting the appropriate car seat for a child’s age and size, and detailed instruction on correct car seat installation. A significant focus is placed on reinforcing the habit of properly buckling up children on every single ride, no matter the distance. These valuable workshops are held monthly at various locations throughout the District and can also be requested for specific groups or organizations.
National Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) Certification
For individuals seeking in-depth knowledge and skills in child passenger safety, Project Safe-Child supports a comprehensive National Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) Certification Training Program. This intensive 32-hour, four-day program prepares participants to become nationally certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians. The curriculum encompasses car seat safety best practices and equips technicians with the skills to effectively assist families at public safety events, conduct private car seat clinics, and lead informative workshops. The training method includes a mix of classroom-based learning, practical indoor and outdoor exercises, hands-on skills assessments involving car seats and vehicles, and participation in community safety checkup events.
For further details regarding the Free Car Seat Program Dc and its various components, please contact:
District Department of Transportation
250 M Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Contact: Karen Gay, [email protected], (202) 409-0234, or [email protected].
