The minimum age for general employment in Michigan is 14 years old. Working at this age is governed by strict regulations designed to ensure employment does not interfere with a minor’s education, health, or well-being. Both the minor and the prospective employer must understand state law before beginning a job search. This guide provides an overview of the Michigan Youth Employment Standards Act and the specific requirements for 14-year-old workers.
Michigan Child Labor Laws for Minors Under 16
The legal framework for employing minors in Michigan is established by the Youth Employment Standards Act, which applies to all businesses hiring workers under 18. This law prohibits 14-year-olds from being employed in any occupation deemed hazardous or injurious to their health or welfare. When both state and federal laws apply, the state enforces the more protective standard.
Prohibited occupations include manufacturing, mining, and most construction operations. Minors are also barred from operating power-driven machinery, driving a motor vehicle as part of the job, or working with hazardous substances or explosives. Furthermore, a 14-year-old cannot work in any establishment where the sale of alcohol constitutes 50% or more of the total sales.
The state permits a subminimum wage rate for workers under 18 years of age. This rate is set at 85% of the prevailing minimum hourly wage rate for adult workers. These legal boundaries define the scope of acceptable employment.
The Mandatory Step: Obtaining a Work Permit
Michigan law requires that any minor under 18 obtain an official work permit before starting a job. For a 14-year-old, the required form is the CA-6, which combines the offer of employment and the work permit. The process begins with the minor completing their portion of the form, including personal and school information.
Next, the employer completes a section confirming the offer of employment, including job duties and proposed hours. After both parties sign, the form is submitted to an authorized issuing officer, typically at the minor’s school district, for final approval. The employer must have the fully completed and certified CA-6 form on file at the worksite before the minor can legally begin work.
The state is transitioning the work permit process, as the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (DLEO) will assume responsibility for issuing permits effective April 2, 2025. A new statewide registration system for both employers and employed minors is scheduled to be fully implemented by October 2, 2026. These administrative changes aim to enhance compliance and oversight of youth employment practices.
Industries and Employers That Hire 14-Year-Olds
Businesses that commonly hire 14-year-olds operate in environments that comply with strict limitations on hazardous work and late hours. These jobs usually involve light, non-manufacturing duties under constant adult supervision. Available positions often center on customer service and general maintenance tasks that do not require specialized training or complex equipment operation.
Retail and Grocery Stores
Retail establishments and grocery stores frequently employ young teens for entry-level tasks. Typical roles include bagging groceries, retrieving shopping carts, stocking shelves in non-hazardous sections, and general cleaning duties. These positions offer practical experience in customer interaction and inventory management within a supervised setting.
Restaurants and Food Service
The food service industry is a major source of employment, though restrictions apply to the duties a 14-year-old can perform. Positions are generally limited to front-of-house roles like bussing tables, washing dishes, cleaning dining areas, and working the counter at fast-food establishments. Minors are prohibited from working where alcohol is sold or consumed, and they may not use deep-fryers, grills, or other hot equipment.
Amusement and Recreation
Amusement parks, movie theaters, and local recreational facilities are common areas for young workers. Job duties often involve selling tickets, working concessions, ushering, or performing light custodial work. Summer camps and community centers also hire 14-year-olds for tasks such as assisting with children’s programs or general maintenance.
Agricultural Jobs
Certain agricultural jobs are subject to different rules and specific exemptions under federal and state law. While farm work is often regulated separately, 14-year-olds may be employed in some farming occupations. These roles must still adhere to the principle of avoiding hazardous tasks, such as working with power-driven machinery or dangerous chemicals.
Daily and Weekly Work Hour Restrictions
The work schedule for a 14-year-old is heavily regulated to prioritize education and rest. Employers must follow the most restrictive federal and state laws, which create a clear difference between school weeks and non-school weeks. Compliance with these time limits is mandatory to maintain a legal work environment.
During any week when school is in session, a minor is limited to working a maximum of 3 hours on any school day. The maximum permitted hours during a school week is strictly limited to 18 hours total. Work is only permitted between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. during the school year.
When school is not in session, such as during summer vacation, the daily and weekly limits are higher. A minor may work up to 8 hours per day and a maximum of 40 hours per week. The evening restriction is extended during the summer, allowing work until 9:00 p.m. from June 1 through Labor Day. Regardless of the time of year, a minor cannot be employed for more than five continuous hours without receiving an uninterrupted break of at least 30 minutes.
Tips for Landing Your First Job
Securing a first job requires a focused approach that highlights reliability and readiness to learn. Even without prior professional experience, a basic resume can be created by listing skills developed through school, volunteer activities, or extracurricular involvement. Describing responsibilities held in these areas demonstrates commitment and teamwork.
The interview process is an opportunity to showcase maturity and a strong work ethic. Be prepared to discuss how you plan to balance work with school and other obligations, emphasizing that you understand the legal limits on your schedule. Parental support is beneficial, as employers appreciate knowing that a minor’s family is supportive of their employment and understands the necessary legal compliance.