When can my son face forward?

My son is 11 months old..and is turning one August 15th.  We are going on a road trip tomorrow and i was wondering if it would be ok to turn his seat around?

He is about 22 pounds 30 inches long.

[Diane1003]

From what I understand the magic point is one year...  My husband turned my son's around a few weeks - maybe 2 before his birthday and all was well.  I wasn't excited about it but - it's not like we got pulled over and anyone asked...

[Helen72]

I think it's when baby reaches 1 year or 20 pounds.

[Linzola1]

we waited until Julian was1 year and we thought he was20lbs buthe was19. The doctorsaid1 year rather than the 20lbs because Julian is in the 90th percentilefor his length!

[Liss908]

He is fine!!  In my opinion turn him around now .  If you get pulled over just say he's 1.  His weight is good. So do it . It will be fun for him and you all!

[Nutkin]

I had thought once they come out of the new born car seat and into a bigger car seat one they face forward? My son is 5 months and sooner rather than later he will go into a bigger seat as he’s getting big now.

[30something13]

They are asking that parents keep their babies facing rear till they reach the maximum wieght for the rear facing. Most car seats are 30-35 lbs and the head be no more then and inch higher then the back of the seat. As far pst the first B_day you can get. They will be changing the law to that effect this summer. But deffiently the child has to be 1 year and weigh 20lbs. WHen rear facing most car seats say the strap has to go right below the shoulder and forward facing right above but you ahve to check the car seat instructions. I know it is temping especailly when it will be a long riad but it is just not safe! If you where in a wreck and something happend you could NOT say he was a year and you could get child endangerment charges! Even if you are good drivers others aren't!! the roads and weather change. I suggest you buy a couple toys new for the ride that he has not played with that will keep him occupied!