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When do babies walk?

The CDC's milestone checklist lists “Takes a few steps on his own” by 15 months, and “Walks without holding on to anyone or anything” by 18 months. Most children (75% or more) do these by those ages, and many walk sooner. If your child isn't walking alone by 18 months, the CDC says talk with your child's doctor.

Checked October 29, 2026.

What the CDC's checklists say

Milestones from the CDC's “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” checklists, word for word
ByThe CDC's milestoneMonth page
1 yearWalks, holding on to furnitureYour baby at 12 months
15 monthsTakes a few steps on his ownYour toddler at 15 months
18 monthsWalks without holding on to anyone or anythingYour toddler at 18 months

Each row is from the CDC's checklist for that age (1 year, 15 months, 18 months), checked October 29, 2026.

What “by 15 months” means

Developmental milestones are things most children (75% or more) can do by a certain age. The CDC puts each milestone at the age by which at least 75% of children would be expected to do it, so that even one missing milestone leads to a conversation with the doctor instead of “wait and see”. So “by 15 months” isn't an average. Many children do it sooner, and the checklists don't list everything a child learns.

What it can look like

Cruising along furniture, then a few wobbly steps between you and the sofa, then walking across the room.

What helps

  • Kneel a few steps away with open arms, and move back a little each time.
  • Let them push a sturdy laundry basket or box across a flat floor, away from stairs.
  • Clear a stretch of flat floor so there's room to practice.

Talk to your pediatrician if…

Your baby isn't doing this by 15 months, the age on the CDC's list, has lost a skill they once had, or you're worried for any reason.

You know your child best. Don't wait. If your child is not meeting one or more milestones, has lost skills he or she once had, or you have other concerns, act early. Talk with your child's doctor, share your concerns, and ask about developmental screening.

If you or the doctor are still concerned, the CDC says to ask for a referral to a specialist, and to call your state's early intervention program (find the number on the CDC's list). You do not need to wait for a doctor's referral or a medical diagnosis to make this call. If your child is younger than 3 years old, contact your local early intervention system.

More from the CDC: Concerned about your child's development? If your child seems unwell, call your pediatrician, or 911 in an emergency.

Sources