CPST Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the CPST exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 CPST Exam Format at a Glance
📚 CPST Topics to Study (21)
✍️ Sample CPST Questions & Answers
1. What is the practical difference between a front-pull (no-rethread) harness adjuster and a rear-pull harness adjuster?
Rear-pull adjusters are routed behind the seat back, requiring the child to be lifted out each time the harness needs to be tightened or loosened.
2. A caregiver wants to donate their expired child restraint to a charity. What should a CPST advise?
Expired seats should be rendered unusable before disposal — cutting the straps and marking it 'expired/do not use' prevents accidental use by a future recipient.
3. Which federal agency has authority over child restraint safety standards in the United States?
NHTSA sets and enforces Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) that govern child restraint performance and safety requirements.
4. Which tool is commonly used to check the tightness of seat installation?
The "tug test" is the most common method used by CPSTs and parents to check the tightness of a child safety seat installation. This involves firmly tugging on the seat at the belt path to ensure it moves no more than one inch side-to-side or front-to-back. While a force gauge can provide a measurable value, the tug test is the practical, everyday method for verifying a secure installation.
5. What should be done if a safety seat fails inspection?
If a safety seat fails inspection, it means it is compromised and cannot provide adequate protection in a crash. Replacing or repairing the seat ensures it meets safety standards and can effectively protect the child, which is crucial for preventing injuries. Continuing to use a faulty seat or removing it without replacement would endanger the child.
6. A caregiver asks if a second-hand child restraint from a trusted family member is safe to use. What is the most important first step a CPST should recommend?
Before using any second-hand seat, it is essential to verify the manufacture and expiration dates and check NHTSA's database to confirm the seat has no open recalls.