In Texas, the age at which you can start working depends on a few factors, including the type of job and the specific regulations governing child labor. Here’s a breakdown:
General Guidelines
- Minimum Age: Generally, the minimum age to work in Texas is 14 years old. However, there are exceptions for certain types of employment.
- Types of Jobs: At age 14 and 15, employment is limited to non-manufacturing, non-hazardous jobs for limited hours. For example, young teens can work in retail, food service, or as office clerks.
- Work Permit: Texas does not require work permits for minors. However, employers must follow state and federal regulations regarding the employment of minors, including age verification and adhering to restricted job categories and hour limitations.
Hour Restrictions for Minors
- Ages 14-15: During the school year, they can work no more than 3 hours on a school day, 18 hours in a school week, 8 hours on a non-school day, and 40 hours in a non-school week. They are also only allowed to work between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM, except from June 1 through Labor Day, when evening hours are extended to 9:00 PM.
- Ages 16-17: There are no hour restrictions for 16- and 17-year-olds during times when school is not in session (e.g., summer vacation). When school is in session, they can work unlimited hours but must adhere to compulsory school attendance laws.
Hazardous Jobs
- Prohibited Jobs: Regardless of hours, there are certain jobs that are considered too hazardous for minors under 18. These include operating heavy machinery, working with certain chemicals, and working in demolition.
Exemptions
- Family Businesses: Some of the restrictions do not apply if the minor is working for a business entirely owned by their parents or guardians, except for jobs declared hazardous by the Federal government.
- Entertainment Industry: Different rules apply for minors working in the entertainment industry, such as acting in movies, television, or theater. These often require special permits and have different regulations regarding working hours and conditions.
It’s important for both employers and young workers in Texas to understand these regulations to ensure that all employment is legal and does not interfere with the education and well-being of the minor.
Additional Considerations for Working Minors in Texas
When it comes to minors working in Texas, besides understanding age requirements and restrictions on hours and types of work, there are a few more aspects to consider:
Education Requirements
- School Attendance: Texas law requires school attendance until a student reaches the age of 19 or graduates from high school. This is important because employers must ensure that work schedules do not interfere with school attendance for minors.
- Dropout Age: Minors who have legally dropped out of school might face different work hour restrictions compared to those still enrolled. However, dropping out of school impacts a minor’s employment opportunities and future career prospects, and it’s generally advised to continue education alongside part-time work if possible.
Work Environment and Safety
- Safety Training: Employers are required to provide proper training and ensure safe working conditions for all employees, including minors. This includes training on how to handle emergencies and understanding the safety protocols relevant to their specific job roles.
- Supervision: Adequate supervision is crucial to ensure the safety and proper guidance of minors at work. Employers should assign supervisors who are responsible for monitoring minor employees and ensuring their compliance with labor laws.
Legal Protections
- Wage Protections: Minors are entitled to the same wage protections as adults, including the federal minimum wage. They should receive equal pay for equal work, and their hours and overtime should be tracked and compensated accordingly.
- Discrimination and Harassment: Minors, like all other employees, are protected under federal and state laws against discrimination and harassment in the workplace. It’s important for minors and their guardians to understand these rights and know how to report any issues.
Permits and Documentation
- Proof of Age: While Texas does not require a work permit, employers must maintain a proof of age for all minor employees. This can be a birth certificate, a state-issued ID, or a driver’s license.
- Record Keeping: Employers must keep accurate records of the hours worked by minors and the nature of their work to ensure compliance with all labor laws.
Resources for Minors and Employers
- Texas Workforce Commission: The Texas Workforce Commission provides resources and information about the employment of minors, helping both employers and young workers understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Department of Labor: The U.S. Department of Labor also offers guidelines and assistance regarding the employment of minors, including details about hazardous occupations and hour restrictions.
