Compliance
Child Labor Laws by State + Federal (2025)
By Staff Report
Dec. 27, 2024
Summary
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Minor labor laws are in place to provide safeguards that prioritize the health, well-being, and education of young employees.
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Child labor laws in the US are designated by the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA).
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Many states default to the federal minor labor standards, but several have designated their own.
Minor labor laws are in place to provide safeguards for people under 18 who are employed and, generally, still attending school. These laws help employers like you prioritize young employees’ health, well-being, and education.
These safeguards restrict the number of hours a minor can work during a day or week. They also prohibit the kind of work minors are allowed to do.
Every state varies in its minor labor rules, so it’s important to understand and stay compliant with employment legislation in your area. Employers who violate minor labor laws are subject to hefty fines – punishment can even escalate to imprisonment if the government decides you’ve violated the laws willfully or repeatedly.
Federal minor labor laws
Child labor laws in the US are designated by the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA). If a state doesn’t have its own child labor laws, it must default to the federal minor labor laws. Many states use a combination of federal law and their own state modifications.
The FLSA states that minors under 16 may not work more than eight hours per day and 40 hours per week when school is not in session, and they may not work more than 3 hours per day and 18 hours per week when school is in session.
It also has laws around the nightly hours that minors under 16 can work. During the school year, federal law states that minors under 16 cannot work after 7 pm or before 7 am. From June 1st through Labor Day, it states that minors under 16 can work until 9 pm.
Minor labor laws by state
States can default to the federal minor labor laws or write their own in accordance with federal laws. For instance, some states allow minors under 16 to work just three hours per day on a school day in accordance with federal law, whereas other states give employers and minors more flexibility with the hours they’re allowed to work when school is in session.
Some states also allow minors to work outside these laws with expressly written consent from a parent or legal guardian and/or the school the minor attends.
All the specificities of each state’s minor labor laws can be found in the table below. (NOTE: if a box is blank, then there are no hourly or time restrictions for that age group in that state.)
Federal/FLSA
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week when school is not in session. 3 hours per day and 18 hours per week when school is in session.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Alabama
- Work Permit: Mandatory if under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week when school is in session. 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week when school is not in session.
Must have a 30-minute documented meal break for more than 5 hours.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm during student summer vacation) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 10 pm before a school day to 5 am (up to age 19, if enrolled in school)
Alaska
Work Permit: Mandatory if under 17 or for 16 and 17-year-olds if the employer is licensed to sell alcohol.
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: 40 hours per week during school vacations between 5AM and 9PM. When school is not in session, they can work for a total of 23 hours a week with work done between 5AM and 9PM.
- 16 and 17: Max 6 days per week.
Minors must have a 30-minute break when scheduled to work six consecutive hours or work five consecutive hours before continuing to work.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: Between 5AM and 9PM
- 16 and 17: None
Arizona
Work Permit: Not required
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week when school is not in session. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 9:30 pm (or 11 pm before a non-school day) to 6 am. For students working door-to-door sales or deliveries, prohibited hours are after 7 pm.
- 16 and 17: None
Arkansas
Work Permit: Not required except for entertainment industry
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week, 6 days per week.
- 16 and 17: 10 hours per day, 54 hours per week, 6 days per week.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (or 9 pm before a non-school day) to 6 am.
- 16 and 17: 11 pm (midnight before a non-school day) to 6 am before a school day (this is for 16-year-olds only – there are no requirements for 17-year-olds).
California
Work Permit: Required for minors under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week when school is not in session. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week when school is not in session. When school is in session, 4 hours per day (8 on a non-school day or any day preceding a non-school day), 48 hours per week.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am.
- 16 and 17: 10 pm (or 12:30 am before a non-school day) to 5 am.
Colorado
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week when school is not in session. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am.
- 16 and 17: None
Connecticut
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. (Minors 14 & 15 are generally not permitted to work when school is in session)
- 16 and 17: Generally, when school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 6 hours per school day (8 hours on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), 32 hours per week. But these hours may vary per industry. You can check the more detailed guidelines here.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm July 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am.
- 16 and 17: 10 pm or 11 pm (midnight if no school the next day) (depending on the establishment the minor is working in) to 6 am
Delaware
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 18.
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 4 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 12 hours per day, combined school and work.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: No specific nightwork limitations, but minors are required to have 8 consecutive hours of non-work, non-school time in each 24-hour day.
Florida
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on Saturday and Sunday), 15 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: Under Florida’s HB49 which went into effect in July 2024, certain restrictions has been relaxed for 16 and 17-year-old minors. They can exceed the 30-hour weekly limit provided there’s appropriate consent. If they’re scheduled to work 8 or more hours, they must have a meal break of at least 30 minutes after no more than 4 hours of continuous work.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm to 7 am before or on a school day. 9 pm to 7 am during holidays and summer vacation.
- 16 and 17: 11 pm to 6:30 am when school is scheduled the following day.
Georgia
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Hawaii
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm to 7 am (9 pm to 6 am during school breaks).
- 16 and 17: None
Idaho
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: 9 hours per day, 54 hours per week
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 9 pm to 6 am
- 16 and 17: None
Illinois
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 24 hours per week. The combined hours of school and work may not exceed 8 hours per day.
- 16 and 17: None
Must provide a scheduled meal period of at least 30 minutes no later than the 5th consecutive hour of work
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Indiana
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: Can work up to 8 hours on school days, 9 hours on non-school days, and 30 hours per school week. Written parental consent required for some hours.
Workers under age 18 must get a 30-minute break if they work for 6 or more consecutive hours.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: Can work until 12:00 a.m.(16 year olds) or 1am (17 year olds) on non-school nights. Specific conditions apply and parental consent is required for some hours.
Iowa
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 6 hours per day, 28 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: May work the same hours as those who are 18 years old.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 9 pm (11 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am.
- 16 and 17: None
Kansas
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 10 pm to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Kentucky
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: Three 3 hours per day on school day, 8 hours per day on non-school day, and 18 hours per week. When school is not in session, they may work 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: When school is in session, 6 hours per school day (8 on a non-school day), 30 hours per week.To work more than thirty (30) hours, they must complete the Certificate of Satisfactory Academic Standing Form and the Parent/Guardian Statement of Consent Form. When school is not in session, no restrictions.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: May not work before 7 AM or after 7 PM (9 PM June 1 through Labor Day).
- 16 and 17: May not work before 6 AM or past 10:30 PM (11 PM with parental permission) preceding school day or 1 AM preceding non-school day.
Louisiana
Work Permit: Mandatory for minors under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week. Minors under 16 must get a 30-minute break for 5 hours of work.
- 16 and 17: None but they must get an eight-hour rest break before the next day of work
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 16-year-old enrolled minor: 11 pm to 5 am before a school day. 17-year-old enrolled minor: 12 am to 5 am before a school day.
Maine
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, no more than 6 days in a row. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week, no more than 6 days in a row.
- 16 and 17: When school is not in session, 10 hours per day, 50 hours per week and there are less than 3 scheduled school days or during the first of the week, no more than 6 days in a row. When school is in session, 6 hours per day (8 hours on the last scheduled day of the school week), 24 hours per week with 3 or more school days in a week, no more than 6 days in a row.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm during school summer vacation) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 10:15 pm (12 am before a non-school day) to 7 am (5 am before a non-school day).
Maryland
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under the age of 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 4 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week. Must have a 30-minute break when working for more than 5 consecutive hours.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: No specific nightwork limitations, but minors are required to have 8 consecutive hours of non-work, non-school time in each 24-hour day.
Massachusetts
Work Permit: Required for minors under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day on a school day (8 hours on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays), 18 hours per week, 6 days per week.
- 16 and 17: 9 hours per day, 48 hours per week, 6 days per week.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 10 pm (11:30 pm before a non-school day) to 6 am *Exception for restaurants and racetracks: 12:00 am to 6 am (only on a non-school night).
Michigan
Work Permit: Generally required for those under 18. Not required for minors 16+ who have completed the requirements for high school (or an equivalent) and provide proof to the employer. A work permit is also not required for 17-year-olds who have passed the GED.
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: No more than 48 hours total school and work combined per week, 6 days per week.
- 16 and 17: When school is not in session, a maximum of 48 hours per week. When school is in session, a maximum of 24 hours per week.
Workers under 18 must have a documented uninterrupted 30-minute break if they work more than 5 hours.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 9 pm to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 10:30 pm (11:30 pm on Fridays, Saturdays, and school vacations) to 6 am.
Minnesota
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 16 during the school year
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm outside of the school year) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 11 pm to 5 am before a school day, or 11:30 pm to 4:30 am with written permission from a parent or legal guardian.
Mississippi
Work Permit: Required for those under 16 in mills, canneries, workshops, and factories.
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: 8 hours per day, 44 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm to 6 am
- 16 and 17: None
Missouri
Certification requirements:
- Age Verification: Not required
- Work Permit: Required for minors under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day.
- 16 and 17: None
Break time is up to the discretion of the employer except for youth workers in the entertainment industry, where youth workers must take a meal break after working no more than five and a half hours. They are also entitled to a 15-minute rest period, counted as work time, after every two hours of continuous work.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day; 10:30 pm if the minor works at a regional fair) to 7 am.
- 16 and 17: None
Montana
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm outside of the calendar school year) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Nebraska
Work Permit: Required for those under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Nevada
Work Permit: Mandatory for minors under the age of 14
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: None
- 16 and 17: None
New Hampshire
Work Permit: Mandatory for minors under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: When school is in session, no more than 6 consecutive days nor more than 30 hours per week. When school is not in session, no more than 6 consecutive days nor more than 48 hours per week. Specific restrictions apply for minors employed in manufacturing and they may not work more than 10 hours per day in manufacturing, more than 101/4 hours per day in manual or mechanical labor, nor more than 8 hours per night, if working at night.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
New Jersey
Work Permit: Mandatory for minors under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: During summer vacation, 10 hours per day, 50 hours per week. Outside of summer vacation, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm to 7 am with limited exceptions
- 16 and 17: 1 pm to 6 am while school is in session or after midnight on days not followed by a school day. When school is not in session 11 pm to 6 am or 3 am in restaurants and seasonal amusements.
New Mexico
Work permit: Mandatory for workers under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm for non-school day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
New York
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week, 6 days per week.
- 16 and 17: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 4 hours per day on days preceding a school day, 8 hours on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, 28 hours per week, 6 days per week.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 21st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 10 pm to 6 am, while school is in session Midnight to 6 am, while school is not in session *Exception: With written permission from a parent and the school, 16 and 17-year-olds may work until midnight before a school day.
North Carolina
Work Permit: Required for minors under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week. Youth workers must take a 30-minute break after five consecutive hours of work.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 11PM to 5AM when preceding a school day for youth who are in grades 12 and below
North Dakota
Work Permit: Mandatory for minors under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Ohio
Work Permit: Mandatory for minors under 16 at any time as well as for 16 and 17 year olds during the school year.
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 p.m. (9 p.m. June 1 to Sept. 1 and during school holidays of 5 school days or more) to 7 a.m., 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. in door-to-door sales.
- 16 and 17: 11 p.m. before school day to 7 a.m. on school day (6 a.m. if not employed after 8 p.m. previous night) if required to attend school. 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. in door-to-door sales.
Oklahoma
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week.
Must have one hour rest period for 8 consecutive hours worked or 30-minute rest periods for five consecutive hours worked. Breaks must be documented.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Oregon
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: 44 hours per week, no daily hour restrictions.
Employers must provide 30-minute meal breaks for six or more hours of work in a day. Fifteen-minute rest breaks are also required for each four hours of work.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Pennsylvania
Work Permit: Mandatory for minors under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 4 hours per day (8 on a non-school day), 18 hours per school week + 8 additional hours on Saturdays and Sundays.
- 16 and 17: When school is not in session, 10 hours per day, 48 hours per week. When school is in session, 8 hours per day, 28 hours per school week + 8 additional hours on Saturdays and Sundays, 6 days per week.
A 30-minute meal period required on or before five consecutive hours of work.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm during school vacations) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 12 am (1 am before a non-school day) to 6 am
Rhode Island
Work Permit: Mandatory for minors under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: 9 hours per day, 48 hours per week during the school year (no restrictions outside the school year).
Must have an 8-hour break between the end of a shift and the start of the next work day.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm during school vacations) to 6 am
- 16 and 17: 11:30 pm (1:30 am before a non-school day) to 6 am
South Carolina
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm during summer vacations) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
South Dakota
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 4 hours per day, 20 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
- Minors younger than 14 years old may not be employed during school hours and later than 7PM
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: After 10 pm on a school night.
- 16 and 17: None
Tennessee
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Minor workers must have a 30-minute unpaid break if working six consecutive hours. Breaks should not be scheduled before the first hour of the work day.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 9 pm to 6 am. When school is in session, 7 pm to 7 am.
- 16 and 17: 10 pm to 6 am Sunday through Thursday (midnight is allowed up to 3 nights per week by 16 and 17-year-olds with permission from their parents).
Texas
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 10 pm (midnight before non-school day) to 5 am
- 16 and 17: None
Utah
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is in session, 3 hours a week, 18 hours a day. When school is not in session, 8 hours in a day and 40 hours in a week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm on June 1 to Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Vermont
Work Permit: Mandatory for minors under 16 during the school year
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week, 6 days per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Virginia
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Washington
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on Saturdays and Sundays), 16 hours per week, 6 days per week. Must have a paid 10-minute break for every two hours worked and 30-minute unpaid meal break starting no later than 4 hours into the shift.
- 16 and 17: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 4 hours per day (8 hours on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays), 20 hours per week, 6 days per week. Must have a paid 10-minute rest break every 4 hours of work and 30-minute unpaid meal break starting no later than 5 hours into the shift.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 10 pm to 7 am, Sunday through Thursday. Midnight to 5 am Friday, Saturday, and when school is not in session.
West Virginia
Work Permit: Required for minors under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
Wisconsin
Work Permit: Generally required for minors under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: No restrictions, but minors working after 11:00 pm must have 8 hours of rest prior to the start of the next shift.
Wyoming
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: None
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: None
District of Columbia
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week, 6 days per week.
- 16 and 17: 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week, 6 days per week.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 10 pm to 6 am
Guam
Work Permit: Mandatory for those under 16
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- 14 and 15: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week. When school is in session, 3 hours per day (8 hours on a non-school day), 18 hours per week.
- 16 and 17: 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week.
Employers must provide a 30-minute meal period for every 4 hours worked.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- 14 and 15: 7 pm (9 pm from June 1st – Labor Day) to 7 am
- 16 and 17: 10 pm (midnight on non-school nights) to 6 am
Puerto Rico
Work Permit: Mandatory for minors under 18
Max number of daily hours, weekly hours, and days per week for:
- Under 16: When school is not in session, 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week. When school is in session, 8 hours per day of school and work combined.
- 16 and 17: 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, 6 days per week.
Night work is not allowed for minors of these ages during these hours:
- Under 16: 6 pm to 8 am
- 16 and 17: 10 pm to 6 am
States have diverse regulations governing child labor, including restrictions on work hours, permitted job types, work permit requirements, and proof of age or age verification. While many of these rules are clearly defined, others can be nuanced or ambiguous. To ensure compliance, it’s crucial to verify a minor’s age before hiring and to follow both federal and state laws applicable to youth employment. When in doubt, consult the appropriate state office for clarification.
Below are some notable state-specific rules and differences that employers should keep in mind.
Minor labor laws in New York
New York follows the federal laws for minors under the age of 16. For minors ages 16 and 17, New York is slightly stricter than other states, prohibiting them from working more than 28 hours per week while school is in session. Many other states allow 16 and 17 year-olds to work 40 or more hours per week, even when school is in session.
New York gives working hour exceptions to 16 and 17 year-olds who have written permission from both their parent or legal guardian and a certificate of satisfactory standing from the school they attend. Without this permission, they are prohibited from working after 10:00 pm on a school day.
When school is not in session — during the summer, for example — they may work until 12 am without the need for written permission.
Minor labor laws in Alabama
In Alabama, any minor under the age of 18 must have a Child Labor Certificate for each employer they work for. Minors can get a certificate from the school they attend. There are two classes of Child Labor Certificates: Class I is required for 14 and 15-year-olds, and Class II is required for 16 and 17-year-olds.
Alabama also has restrictions for employers that sell liquor. Minors 14 and 15 years of age are not permitted to work at any establishment that serves alcohol on its premises.
Minor labor laws in Colorado
In Colorado, minor labor laws apply to all people under 18 unless they have received a high school diploma or GED. While work permits are not required in Colorado, employers can request an age certification as proof of age. These certifications are issued by the school district that the minor attends. Colorado also allows 14 and 15-year-olds to obtain a school release permit if a student wishes to work on a school day during school hours.
Colorado’s labor laws also include various trades that are permissible at certain ages. For example, a 9-year-old can do shoe-shining, yard work, golf caddying, and other similar jobs. Once a minor turns 14, they can work in almost any non-hazardous occupation.
Workforce.com helps you stay in compliance with minor labor laws
Workforce.com’s scheduling, time & attendance, and payroll software lets you easily keep track of hours worked so you don’t overschedule people under 18 and pay them accurately. Our software allows you to automatically account for the break laws and hourly limits for minors in all 50 states so you can schedule your employees with confidence that you’re staying in compliance. Workforce.com handles all paid and unpaid breaks and overtime rules, so you don’t have to remember what they are off the top of your head.
Workforce.com gives you both convenience and confidence when it comes to scheduling your employees under 18. Give Workforce.com a try today.
This information is for general purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. While we strive to keep it updated, laws and regulations can change at any time. It’s always a good idea to consult with a legal professional or relevant authorities to compliance with the most current standards.
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