Definition: In order to standardize the attachment of child safety seats in passenger vehicles, automakers adopted the "Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children" system, commonly known as LATCH.
LATCH-ready vehicles provide two lower metal hooks (usually located between the seat and back cushion) for the attachment of clasps connected to child safety seats. A third LATCH anchor allows an upper hook and tether to be affixed, and usually is located on the vehicle ceiling or behind the seat in which the child safety seat is installed.
The LATCH system is now required on all vehicles sold in the United States, having become a requirement by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in September 2002.
Alternate Spellings: Latch, latch