Getting a first job is an exciting step toward independence, but youth employment in the United States is governed by federal and state laws. These regulations protect the safety and education of minors by setting boundaries on the age, hours, and types of jobs they can perform. Understanding these legalities is important for both the young worker and the potential employer. The rules change significantly based on a person’s age, industry, and location.
Understanding Federal Minimum Age Requirements
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the national baseline for youth employment, generally establishing a minimum age of 14 for non-agricultural work. This federal law ensures that work does not interfere with a minor’s schooling or health. Minors aged 14 and 15 are permitted to work in various non-manufacturing and non-hazardous jobs under specific conditions.
Exceptions allow minors under 14 to work in certain roles. Children of any age can be employed by their parents in a solely owned business, provided the job is not hazardous, mining, or manufacturing. Other exempted jobs include newspaper delivery, acting in productions, and performing minor chores around a private home, such as babysitting.
State-Specific Rules and Age Variations
State laws often establish a higher minimum working age or impose more stringent conditions than the federal FLSA. Since the federal standard is the floor, a minor must comply with both federal and state regulations, following the rule that provides the greatest protection.
Some states may require a minor to be 15 or 16 years old to work in specific industries, such as those involving the handling or serving of alcoholic beverages. These variations emphasize the importance of checking local municipal laws. Readers must consult their state’s Department of Labor to locate the exact information applicable to their location and desired industry.
Navigating Working Hour Restrictions for Minors
The FLSA places strict limits on the number of hours 14 and 15-year-olds can work, depending on whether school is in session. During the school year, minors are limited to working only outside of school hours. They have a maximum of three hours on any school day, and their total work week is capped at 18 hours.
These limitations increase significantly during periods when school is not in session, such as summer vacation. During non-school weeks, 14 and 15-year-olds can work up to eight hours per day and a maximum of 40 hours per week. Minors are also restricted from working before 7:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m. on school nights, though the evening hour is extended to 9:00 p.m. between June 1st and Labor Day.
Job Types Minors Are Legally Prohibited From Doing
Federal law prohibits workers under the age of 18 from employment in “Hazardous Occupations” (HOs) as determined by the Secretary of Labor. These jobs are considered detrimental to the health and well-being of young workers, and the prohibitions apply regardless of the hours worked.
Prohibited jobs include operating power-driven woodworking machines, working in logging or sawmilling, and operating power-driven hoisting apparatus like forklifts. Minors are also barred from most jobs related to manufacturing explosives, mining, and roofing operations.
Required Paperwork and Employment Documentation
Most states require minors under a specific age, often 16, to obtain a work permit or employment certificate before starting a job. This documentation ensures the minor is legally permitted to work and that the employer is aware of the applicable labor laws. The process typically begins with the minor completing a section of the form.
The form usually requires an indication of the employer’s intent to hire and a parent or guardian’s signature. The completed paperwork is then submitted to an issuing officer, often located at the minor’s school or the state’s labor department. In addition to the work permit, young job seekers must provide standard identity and age verification documents, such as a birth certificate or driver’s license.
Finding and Securing Your First Job
The search for a first job should begin by identifying roles that align with legal restrictions for minors, such as positions in retail, food service, or summer camp counseling. Potential employers look for applicants who demonstrate reliability, a positive attitude, and willingness to learn. Young job seekers should focus on entry-level positions that do not involve hazardous work or excessive hours.
When creating a basic resume, young applicants should highlight academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and volunteer work. These experiences demonstrate responsibility and teamwork, compensating for a lack of formal employment history. Preparing for the interview involves practicing clear communication and maintaining a professional demeanor.