What is the required age for children to be in a booster seat?

The requirement for children to use a booster seat until they reach 8 years old or 4'9" tall is based on safety guidelines established to ensure that children are adequately protected while traveling in vehicles. Booster seats are designed to elevate children so that the vehicle's seat belt fits them properly. This proper fit is crucial for protecting young passengers in the event of a crash, as it helps position the lap and shoulder belts correctly across the strongest parts of a child's body.

Using a booster seat until the specified age or height helps keep children secure and minimizes the risk of injury. For instance, if a child is too short to properly use a seat belt without a booster, they may be at an increased risk of injury during a collision.

While other options may suggest different age limits or situational criteria for transitioning from a booster seat, they do not align with established safety guidelines designed to protect children effectively in a vehicle setting. The state mandates ensure that children are in the safest possible restraints according to their size and maturity levels, making option B the most appropriate choice for ensuring age-appropriate protection.