TCA 55-8-189
Transporting child in truck bed
MISDEMEANOR CClass C Misdemeanor
Sentence enhancement may apply
What does this charge mean?
Transporting child in truck bed — Class C misdemeanor. Up to 30 days in jail and $50 fine. Penalty may be enhanced for prior offenses or aggravating factors.
Penalty Details
ClassificationClass C Misdemeanor
Maximum Jail30 days
Maximum Fine$50
Penalty SummaryClass C misdemeanor; 30 days; fine up to $50
(a) A person commits an offense who, on the streets of any municipality, roads of any county, or the highways of this state, transports a child under six (6) years of age in the bed of a truck with a manufacturer‘s ton rating not exceeding three-quarter (3/4) ton and having a pickup body style. (b) (1) A person commits an offense who, on any interstate defense highway or state highway, transports a child between six (6) years of age and under twelve (12) years of age in the bed of a truck with a manufacturer’s ton rating not exceeding three-quarter (3/4) ton and having a pickup body style. (2) A city or county may prohibit, by ordinance or resolution, a person from transporting a child between six (6) years of age and under twelve (12) years of age in the bed of a truck with a manufacturer’s ton rating not exceeding three-quarter (3/4) ton and having a pickup body style on city or county roads or highways. (c) This section does not apply to a person transporting a child in the bed of such vehicle when that vehicle is being used as part of an organized parade, procession, or other ceremonial event, and when that vehicle is not exceeding the speed of twenty miles per hour (20 mph). (d) This section does not apply when the child being transported is involved in agricultural activities. (e) A violation of subsection (a) or subdivision (b)(1) is a Class C misdemeanor.
View on official sourceLast verified: Feb 26, 2026
Quick Facts
MISDEMEANOR C
TCA Section55-8-189
Max Jail30 days
Max Fine$50