Working as a cashier at 14 is generally possible, but it is subject to strict limitations. Federal and state labor laws control the conditions of employment for minors to ensure work does not interfere with their education or health. Navigating these rules requires understanding both the national minimum standards and the specific regulations that apply locally. Employment is possible provided the job falls within acceptable occupational boundaries and adheres to strict time restrictions.
The Federal Rules on Working at Fourteen
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the minimum age for most non-agricultural employment at 14 years old, establishing a baseline for youth employment. This federal law permits 14- and 15-year-olds to work only in certain non-manufacturing and non-hazardous occupations. The FLSA specifically allows employment in retail, food service, and gasoline service establishments.
Permitted entry-level positions include office and clerical work, cashiering, selling, and bagging groceries. Young workers may also engage in clean-up work, grounds maintenance, pricing, tagging, and shelving goods. While the job title “cashier” is acceptable under federal law, the actual tasks performed are highly regulated.
Restrictions on Work Hours and Time
Federal law places specific limits on the hours 14- and 15-year-olds can work, which vary depending on whether school is in session. During the school week, a minor is limited to working no more than three hours on any school day. The total number of hours allowed during a school week cannot exceed 18.
When school is not in session, such as during summer vacation, the maximum daily limit increases to eight hours. A maximum of 40 hours is permitted during a non-school week. Time-of-day restrictions limit work hours to between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. during the school year. This evening restriction is extended to 9:00 p.m. from June 1st through Labor Day.
State and Local Labor Laws
Federal labor law establishes a floor for youth employment standards, meaning state and local laws often impose additional, stricter rules. When both federal and state laws apply, the law that offers the greater protection to the minor must be followed. This “stricter law prevails” principle can significantly alter the work conditions for a 14-year-old.
Some states may impose higher age limits for certain tasks or mandate fewer maximum work hours than the federal limits. For example, while Idaho allows 14- and 15-year-olds to work up to nine hours a day, federal law caps those hours at eight for employers covered by the FLSA. Other states may impose stricter night work restrictions, requiring minors to stop working earlier than the federal 7:00 p.m. limit during the school year. Checking the specific requirements set by the state’s Department of Labor is necessary to determine local eligibility and work hour compliance.
Specific Job Limitations for Young Workers
Even in a permitted job like cashiering, 14-year-olds are prohibited from performing specific tasks considered hazardous. Federal law bans employment in manufacturing, mining, and processing occupations, and prohibits working in freezers or meat coolers. Minors at this age cannot operate or tend any power-driven machinery, with the exception of typical office machines.
This prohibition extends to equipment commonly found in food service or retail, such as meat slicers, dough mixers, or powered floor cleaners. While a 14-year-old can ring up a customer’s purchase, they are barred from selling, dispensing, or serving alcohol, tobacco, or lottery tickets, as these are age-restricted products. They also cannot load or unload trucks, work in construction, or perform public messenger services.
Required Documentation and Permits
Many states require minors to obtain an employment certificate or work permit, often called “working papers,” before they can legally begin employment. Although the federal government does not mandate work permits, most states use this system to track and regulate youth employment. This documentation ensures the minor’s employment complies with all applicable child labor laws.
The process typically involves the minor, a parent or guardian, and the prospective employer. The minor must present proof of age, such as a birth certificate, and have a job offer from an employer detailing the work duties and hours. The permit is commonly issued by the school’s administrative office or the state’s labor department. A new permit is often required if the minor changes employers.
Employers Who Hire Fourteen-Year-Olds
Businesses that frequently hire 14-year-olds are generally those in the retail and food service sectors that operate during the permitted hours. Large national retail chains, movie theaters, and quick-service restaurants are often structured to accommodate the strict hour and task restrictions. Many grocery stores hire 14-year-olds for specific roles like bagging, stocking shelves, or working as a cashier under close supervision.
To secure a position, an applicant should highlight their maturity, reliability, and understanding of the legal work limits during the application and interview process. Demonstrating awareness of the permitted hours and prohibited tasks can be beneficial, as these employers are familiar with the legal requirements. The focus remains on non-hazardous, supervised work that does not conflict with school attendance.