Three healthcare professionals standing in front of a colorful mural with mountains, trees, and a sun, each with a child car safety seat at their feet.

New Mexico Child Safety Seat Distribution Program

The New Mexico Child Safety Seat Distribution Program, funded by the New Mexico Department of Transportation Traffic Safety Division, helps qualifying low-income families get car seats at a low cost — and teaches you how to use them safely.

With around 40 distribution sites across New Mexico, families can access:

  • Affordable car seats

  • Hands-on education on proper installation and use

  • Support from trained safety technicians

Each location has its own eligibility requirements, so be sure to check with a site near you for specific details.

FAQs

  • Through the New Mexico Child Safety Seat Distribution Program, eligible families can receive a car seat for a low, recommended fee of $35 — but no one is turned away for lack of funds. If you qualify, you’ll receive a seat for whatever you can afford.

  • Each car seat distribution site has their own qualifications families must meet before being issued a car seat. Most locations will ask families to provide proof of eligibility for Medicaid, WIC, or New Mexi-Kids.

  • We got you! All locations have staff who are certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians. If you receive a new seat, the technicians will teach you how to install and use your seat correctly.

    If a technician isn't available at your site, you can make an appointment at an upcoming Car Seat Check-Up Event near you, where a certified technician will
    assist you.

  • No. Distribution sites do not loan out car seats to families or to any other agencies or organizations.

  • Each eligible child in your household can receive one car seat through the program. However, we are only able to provide one seat per child — no extras or additional seats can be given.

    This helps ensure that we can serve as many families across New Mexico as possible.

  • Fees may vary by location, but for most qualifying families,
    the recommended fee is $35.

    Please note:

    • Cash, Credit, or money order only (no personal checks accepted)

    • All fees go directly back into the program to help other families in need

  • To find the nearest distribution site, please call us at 800-231-6145 or 505-856-6143.