It’s the time of year when many employers will be hiring minors for the summer, which comes with unique challenges and requirements. We highlight the key issues below.
Work Permits. With few exceptions, minors under 18 years old must have a permit to work and employers must have a permit to employ, before the minor may start work. These permits may be obtained from the minor’s school or, when school is not in session, from the superintendent of the minor’s school district. Generally, the minor will be the one to obtain this form, after the employer agrees to hire the minor. With some exceptions, work permits must be renewed at the start of each school year.
Hours. California law limits the number of hours minors may work per day and per week, as follows:
| Ages 16 and 17 | Ages 14 and 15 | Ages 12 and 13 | |
| School in Session |
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| School Not in Session |
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| Hours During Which Minors May Work |
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Allowing minors to work outside the hours restrictions listed above is a misdemeanor, and will result in significant penalties and the possibility of imprisonment.
Duties. Both state and federal laws limit the types of duties employers may assign to minors. For example, minors may not be employed in any jobs declared hazardous by the U.S. Department of Labor. California law also prohibits most minors from driving a vehicle on public highways or streets as part of their job duties.
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There are extensive restrictions and regulations related to hiring minors in California, and the above are just some of the most commonly encountered issues. For more information, read the California Labor Commissioner’s Information on Minors and Employment guidance and Child Labor Law Booklet.
