Non-Agricultural Jobs
- Minors aged 14 and 15: They can work in various non-manufacturing and non-hazardous jobs under certain restrictions regarding hours:
- During the school year, they can work up to 3 hours per day on school days, up to 8 hours on non-school days, and no more than 18 hours in a week.
- During the summer or when school is not in session, they can work up to 8 hours per day and up to 40 hours per week.
- They are not permitted to work before 7:00 AM or after 7:00 PM, except from June 1 through Labor Day, when evening hours are extended to 9:00 PM.
- Minors aged 16 and 17: They have fewer restrictions and can work in non-hazardous jobs:
- There are no federal limits on the hours they can work, but they must adhere to state restrictions if more stringent.
- They can work up to 4 hours on school days, 8 hours on non-school days, and up to 48 hours per week.
- They are not permitted to work during school hours, unless they are part of a work-study program or similar arrangement.
Agricultural Jobs
- Minors aged 12 and 13: They can work in agriculture on non-school days, either with parental consent or on the same farm as their parents.
- Minors aged 14 and 15: They can work outside school hours in jobs not declared hazardous by the Secretary of Labor.
- Minors aged 16 and older: They may perform any job, whether hazardous or not, for unlimited hours.
Exceptions and Special Provisions
- Entertainment Industry: Minors of any age can work in the entertainment industry (e.g., movies, TV, theater) with special permits and under specific conditions that protect their safety, health, and education.
- Family Businesses: If a business is owned by a minor’s parents, the minor can work below the minimum age restrictions, except in manufacturing or hazardous jobs.
Regardless of age, minors generally need to obtain a work permit from their school, which ensures that their work does not interfere with their education. The work permit specifies the hours and times of day that the minor is allowed to work.
These guidelines are in place to ensure that work does not interfere with the education and well-being of minors. It’s always a good idea to consult the specific regulations and obtain the necessary permits to ensure compliance with all legal requirements for employing minors in California.
In California, obtaining a work permit is an essential step for minors who wish to work. The process involves several key components to ensure the job does not adversely affect the minor’s health and education.
How to Obtain a Work Permit
- Application: The minor must first obtain a “Statement of Intent to Employ Minor and Request for Work Permit” form from their school. This form needs to be completed by the minor, their parent or guardian, and the employer.
- Approval: The form must then be returned to the school, where the school authority will review and may issue a work permit if all conditions are met and the work is deemed suitable. The permit outlines specific conditions under which the minor is allowed to work, including hours and types of allowed duties.
- Issuance: Once approved, the school issues the work permit, which must be kept on file at the minor’s place of employment and is subject to review by labor authorities.
Legal Restrictions and Protections
Hours of Work:
- The state imposes restrictions on the number of hours a minor can work, especially during the school term, to ensure that work does not conflict with school attendance or the minor’s health. For example, during the school year, minors aged 14 and 15 may not work during school hours and have limited hours before and after school.
Prohibited Jobs:
- There are specific roles and industries where minors are prohibited from working, primarily in hazardous occupations defined by both state and federal laws. For example, minors are generally prohibited from working in mining, logging, meat packing, roofing, excavation, and demolition.
Safety and Health Regulations:
- Employers are required to adhere to all safety and health regulations to protect minor workers. This includes providing necessary training and safety gear for certain jobs.
Education Requirements:
- Employers must also comply with regulations requiring that the work does not interfere with the minor’s schooling. This is monitored through the work permit system which ensures that work schedules are compatible with school schedules.
Additional Considerations
Enforcement:
- The Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) in California enforces child labor laws and conducts inspections to ensure compliance. Employers who violate these laws may face penalties, fines, and other sanctions.
Parental and Guardian Roles:
- Parents and guardians play a crucial role in monitoring their child’s employment to ensure it remains beneficial and does not negatively impact their education or health.
School’s Role:
- Schools act as a check in the system, ensuring that the work is appropriate for the minor’s age and does not interfere with their education. They have the authority to revoke a work permit if the job is affecting the student’s academic performance or health.
Understanding these guidelines helps in maintaining a balance between providing valuable work experience and ensuring the well-being and educational achievements of minors. If there are any questions or uncertainties about the specific legal requirements, it’s advisable to consult directly with school counselors or the DLSE to get the most accurate and relevant information.
