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Certification

Become a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST)

Protecting Children Starts With You

Are you passionate about keeping children safe on the road? Whether youโ€™re a community member, healthcare provider, or LA County employee, earning your Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Technician Certification is a meaningful way to make a difference.

What Is a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST)?

CPSTs are trained professional certified to educate parents and caregivers on the proper installation and use a car seats, booster seats, and seat belts. Technicians work in a variety of settings โ€“ hospitals, fire departments, schools, non-profits, and public agencies โ€“ to ensure children are protected every time theyโ€™re on the road.

How do I get certified?

  • ๐Ÿ“„ Step 1: Meet Eligibility Requirements
    • Be at least 18 years of age.
    • Be committed to attending the entire 4-day course.
  • ๐Ÿ“š Step 2: Register for a CPS Certification Course
    • Visit the Safe Kids Worldwide certification site:
    • https://cert.safekids.org/
    • Select โ€œFind a Courseโ€ to search for available sessions in Los Angeles County and surrounding areas.
    • TIP: Register early โ€“ classes fill up quickly and space is limited.
  • ๐Ÿซ Step 3: Attend the 4-Day CPS Technician Certification Course

Course Breakdown:

Day Topics Covered

Day 1

๐Ÿ“˜ Introduction to CPS, crash dynamics, child development, and ๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ occupant protection

Day 2

๐Ÿ”„ Types of car seats, installation techniques (๐Ÿ‘ถ rear-facing, ๐Ÿง’ forward-facing, ๐Ÿ‘ฆboosters)

Day 3

๐Ÿคฒ Hands-on skills assessments, โš ๏ธ misuse scenarios, teaching caregivers

Day 4

๐Ÿ“ Final written exam and ๐Ÿ” car seat check event with the public
  • Total Time Commitment: Approximately 32 hours over 4 days.
  • Includes classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and public interaction.
  • Must attend all days in full to become certified.
  • Step 4: Pass All Requirements
    • Written Exam (multiple choice)
    • Skills Assessments (demonstrate correct installation techniques)
    • Participation in a real-world car seat checkup event

Why Get Certified

  • Make a difference: Help prevent injuries and save lives.
  • Advance your career: Certification adds credibility to professionals in public health, law enforcement, healthcare, and education.
  • Serve your community: Provide essential safety education at public car seat check events and outreach programs.

Upon successful completion, youโ€™ll receive a CPST Certification valid for 2 years.