The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) specifically protects young workers’ educational opportunities and prohibits employment in roles that could be detrimental to their health or well-being.
Key Reminders
When federal and state laws differ, the stricter law applies.
Employers must ensure compliance with both sets of regulations.
We provide official agency and state resources to help you stay compliant.
Ensure a safe and lawful summer hiring season: review the rules before onboarding minors.
Performing dangerous jobs that are off-limits for their age.
Under legal age for employment
Parents hiring their own children without reviewing state law requirements.
General: Age and Industry restrictions
Minimum age: The FLSA sets 14 years old as the minimum age for employment and limits the number of hours worked by minors under the age of 16.
The FLSA generally prohibits the employment of a minor in work declared hazardous by the Secretary of Labor (for example, work involving excavation, driving, and the operation of many types of power-driven equipment).
After 5 or 6 consecutive hours of work (depending on schedule)
Sick Leave
Exempt if working under 30 hours/week.
Must accrue sick leave if working 30+ hours/week.
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis
Under 16: Cannot work in alcohol-licensed businesses.
17: Permit required if alcohol is sold
Under 19: Cannot sell tobacco.
Under 21: Cannot sell pull-tabs or work in cannabis industry.
Penalties: Violations can result in fines, legal action, and revocation of work permits. Employers are also required to maintain accurate records of minors’ work hours and duties to demonstrate compliance.
Permitted Jobs for Minors 16: Except for youths under the age of 16 working in the manufacturing and mining industries, the Occupational Restrictions are exempt under the following conditions.
Breaks: Employers must provide regular breaks to minors to prevent fatigue and stress.
Penalties: Violations of youth employment laws may result in fines up to $1,000.
An employer, a minor (or their parent or guardian), or a school official or youth employment specialist may ask the Division for an exemption from certain CYEOA limits. The Division may grant exemptions to some provisions of the CYEOA.
Work Hour Restrictions (C.R.S. § 8-12-105)
Under 14: Not permitted to work unless exempted (e.g., home chores, newspaper delivery, acting).
Ages 14–15:
School Days:
No work during school hours (unless with a school release permit)
Max 6 hours after school (unless next day is not a school day)
No work between 9:30 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. (unless the next day is not a school day)
General Limits:
Max 40 hours/week
Max 8 hours/day
Seasonal agricultural work: Up to 12 hours/day and 30 hours/72-hour period (with limits on frequency)
Occupations in Which Minors Ages 14–15 Cannot Be Employed: Minors under 16 cannot be employed in the following hazardous occupations (C.R.S. § 8-12-110):
High-pressure steam or hot water boiler operation
Work involving falls from 10+ feet (20+ feet in agriculture)
Explosives manufacturing, transport, or storage
Mining, logging, oil drilling, quarrying
Exposure to radioactive substances or ionizing radiation
Operation of hazardous power-driven machinery (e.g., woodworking, bakery, metal-forming, shearing)
Slaughtering, meat rendering, or packaging
Brick, clay, or silica product manufacturing
Wrecking or demolition (except manual auto wrecking)
Roofing and excavation operations
Occupations Minors 17 and Under Cannot Be Employed In: All minors under 18 are prohibited from the hazardous occupations listed above unless they are at least 14 and have completed an approved training or apprenticeship program (C.R.S. § 8-12-110(1)).
Permitted Jobs for Minors Age 16: Minors age 16 and older may work in any occupation, including those involving motor vehicle operation, if they are properly licensed (C.R.S. § 8-12-109), except for those declared hazardous unless they meet training exemptions.
Breaks: Employers should consult Colorado wage orders or the Division of Labor Standards and Statistics for break requirements.
Penalties: Violations of the CYEOA carry civil, criminal, and financial penalties (C.R.S. § 8-12-116):
Breaks: Employers must also ensure that minors receive appropriate breaks and meal periods as mandated by law. Consult the Connecticut Department of Labor of additional information.
Penalties:
Fines ranging from $300 to $600 per violation.
Additional enforcement actions by the Connecticut Department of Labor, including inspections and record audits.
Employers are also required to maintain accurate records of minors’ work hours and permits (working papers).
Breaks: Minors may not work more than 4 consecutive hours without a 30-minute uninterrupted break.
Penalties: Under Florida law an employer may be fined up to $2,500 per offense and/or receive a criminal conviction as a second-degree misdemeanor. Under federal law, an employer may receive a maximum fine of $16,035.
Certificate of Employment (for 14- and 15-year-old minors): Obtain an application on the department’s website
The Department will issue a certificate as long as: (1) the minor is not legally required to be in school, and (2) the minor’s employment is not hazardous.
Work Hour Restrictions
General Restrictions (Under 16)
Not permitted to work between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Max hours:
4 hours/day on school days
8 hours/day on non-school days
40 hours/week
Theatrical Employment (Under 16)
Combined school and work hours: Max 10 hours/day
Max 4 nights/week
Daily limits:
Under 6: Max 2 hours
6–10: Max 3 hours
10–14: Max 4 hours
14–16: Max 8 hours
Night limits:
On school nights: work must end by 8:30–9:30 p.m.
On non-school nights: work must end by 10:30–11:30 p.m.
Coffee Harvesting (Ages 10–14)
Only allowed when school is not in session.
Max 6 hours/day, 30 hours/week, 5 days/week
Breaks:
15-minute rest after 2 hours
1-hour meal break after 4 hours
Pineapple Harvesting (Age 15)
Allowed from June 1 to Labor Day
Max 8 hours/day, 48 hours/week
Work allowed from 6:00 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Requires parental consent for work after 9:00 p.m.
Prohibited Occupations by Age
Under 18
Declared hazardous occupations include:
Motor vehicle driving (with exceptions for 16+ under strict conditions)
Power-driven machinery (woodworking, metal forming, bakery, paper products)
Slaughtering, meat packing, rendering
Roofing, excavation, mining, logging, sawmills
Wrecking, demolition, shipbreaking
Exposure to radioactive substances or ionizing radiation
Under 16
Additional prohibited occupations:
Manufacturing or processing
Hoisting apparatus or power-driven machinery (except office machines)
Public messenger service
Transportation, warehousing, construction
Retail/food/gasoline work involving hazardous equipment or environments.
Breaks:
Coffee Harvesting (Ages 10–14):
15-minute rest after 2 hours
1-hour meal after 4 hours
Theatrical Employment:
Rest periods and other conditions may be required by the director if a variance is granted.
Penalties:
Employment certificates may be revoked for:
Violations of child labor laws
Falsification of application information
Employment deemed harmful to the minor.
Violations may result in hearings, and decisions can be appealed under Hawaii Revised Statutes §91-14.
Does require employers to keep a record of the names, ages, and residence of minors aged 14–15 who are employed (Section 44-1303).
Work Hour Restrictions
Minors under 16 years old:
Cannot work more than 54 hours per week.
Cannot work more than 9 hours per day.
Cannot work before 6:00 AM or after 9:00 PM (Section 44-1304)
Minors and the Age in Which They Cannot Be Employed in Certain Occupations
Prohibit employment of minors under 16 in hazardous occupations (Guide)
Include a list of hazardous occupations for both farm and nonfarm jobs.
These occupations are declared by the U.S. Secretary of Labor as too dangerous for minors.
Further details are available from the U.S. Department of Labor.
Children under 14:
Cannot be employed in or around: mines, factories, workshops, mercantile establishments, stores, telegraph/telephone offices, laundries, restaurants, hotels, apartment houses, or in the distribution of merchandise/messages.
Cannot work during school hours or between 6:00 AM and 9:00 PM.
Exception: Children over 12 may work during school vacations of 2+ weeks. (Section 44-1301)
Children under 16:
Cannot be employed in occupations that interfere with school unless they meet certain educational requirements (e.g., reading, writing, arithmetic). (Section 44-1302)
Children under 16:
Cannot be employed in dangerous or immoral occupations such as:
Acrobatics, rope/wire walking, dancing, begging, peddling, contortionism, or immoral exhibitions.
Serving or handling intoxicating liquors.
Working in saloons, gambling houses, or houses of prostitution. (Sections 44-1306 and 44-1307)
Breaks:
Idaho law does not require:
Rest periods
Breaks
Lunch breaks
This applies to all employees, including minors.
Penalties:
Violations of Sections 44-1301 and 44-1302:
Fine up to $50 for the initial offense.
After notification by authorities, continued employment results in daily fines of $5 to $20.
Failure to produce age records is considered prima facie evidence of illegal employment.
False swearing about a minor’s age is considered perjury. (Section 44-1305)
Violations involving immoral or dangerous employment:
Fine of $50 to $250, or up to 6 months in jail, or both. (Section 44-1306)
Employment in immoral surroundings or with intoxicating liquor:
Fine of at least $50, or at least 2 months in jail, or both. (Section 44-1307)
Work permits (employment certificates) are required for minors under 16. Employment certificates must be issued by the school district. These certificates must be filed with the Illinois Department of Labor.
The certificate confirms:
The minor is old enough to work.
The minor is physically capable of performing the job.
The job will not interfere with the minor’s education.
The minor and their parent/guardian must apply through the school issuing officer.
Required documents include:
Statement of intention to employ (with job duties and hours)
Proof of age (birth certificate or equivalent)
School schedule and academic standing
Physical fitness certification
Certificates are valid for one year and only for the employer listed.
Temporary certificates (15 days max) may be issued for child performers without a trust account.
Work Hour Restrictions
For minors aged 14 and 15:
On school days: Maximum of 3 hours per day
On non-school days: Maximum of 8 hours per day
When school is in session: No more than 6 days or 18 hours per week.
When school is not in session: Maximum of 40 hours per week.
Permitted work hours:
During the school year: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
June through September: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
General limits for minors under 16:
Max 18 hours/week when school is in session.
Max 40 hours/week when school is not in session.
Max 8 hours/day
No work between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (Labor Day to June 1)
No work between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (June 1 to Labor Day)
Max 3 hours/day or 8 hours total (school + work) on school days
Exceptions:
May work up to 8 hours on Saturdays and Sundays during the school year.
May work up to 24 hours/week outside school hours.
Special rules apply for theatrical and entertainment work.
Minors and the Age in Which They Cannot Be Employed in Certain Occupations
Minors are prohibited from working in the following occupations (per 820 ILCS 206/40):Mechanic’s garages, mines, quarries, stone cutting
Factories, foundries, smelters, metal treatment
Logging, sawmills, woodworking machinery
Spray painting, exposure to lead, acids, chemicals, and radioactive substances.
Construction, demolition, energy generation, utilities
Slaughterhouses, meat/fish processing
Elevated surfaces (e.g., ladders, scaffolds)
Security roles involving weapons.
Handling human blood or tissues
Cannabis, alcohol, tobacco, gambling, adult entertainment establishments
Any occupation prohibited under federal law.
Breaks:
A 30-minute meal break must be provided no later than the fifth hour of work.
Breaks shorter than 30 minutes do not interrupt the continuous work period.
Penalties:
Civil Penalties:
Up to $60,000 if a minor dies while working in violation of the law.
Up to $30,000 for work-related injury or illness
Up to $15,000 for prohibited occupations
Up to $10,000 for other violations
$500 for failure to post required notices.
Criminal Penalties:
Class A misdemeanor
Civil penalty between $500 and $2,500
Each day and each minor in violation counts as a separate offense.
Indiana no longer requires work permits for minors. Employers of five or more minors must use the Youth Employment System
Work Hour Restrictions
16–17-year-olds: Can work the same hours and days as adults. They can work up to 9 hours a day and 40 hours per week during the school year, expanding to 48 hours in a non-school week.
14–15-year-olds: Can work outside school hours, up to 3 hours on a school day (including Fridays), 8 hours on a non-school day, and 18 hours during a school week and 40 hours during a non-school week. They can work between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., except between June 1 and Labor Day when the evening hours are extended to 9 p.m.
Age in Which Minors Cannot Be Employed in Certain Occupations
Minors are prohibited from working in certain occupations deemed dangerous, including manufacturing, mining, working with power-driven machinery, and construction. Details here
Breaks
Employers are recommended to provide minors with at least two 15-minute breaks or one 30-minute break for six-hour or longer shifts.
Indiana law does not mandate breaks, but employers may offer them.
These penalties may be assessed per violation and can vary depending on previous citations by the Youth Employment division. See “Youth Employment” here:
Work permits are no longer required: Work permits, and related provisions have been repealed by the 2023 Acts, Chapter 92, §22.
Work Hour Restrictions
Minors under 16 years old (Section 92.7):
Cannot work before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.
From June 1 through Labor Day, work hours may extend to 11:00 p.m.
Must receive a 30-minute break if working 5 or more hours a day.
Maximum of 8 hours per day (excluding break)
Maximum of 40 hours per week
While school is in session:
Maximum of 6 hours per day
Maximum of 28 hours per week
Minors aged 16 and 17 (Section 92.7A):
May work the same hours as adults (18+)
Minors and the Age in Which They Cannot Be Employed in Certain Occupations
Under 14 (Section 92.3): Cannot be employed in any work activity, with or without compensation.
Under 16 (Sections 92.4, 92.5, 92.6):
May work only in specific permitted activities such as: Retail, food service, clerical work, delivery, kitchen work (with restrictions), and light cleaning.
Requires work permits for children under the age of 16 who are not enrolled in or attending secondary school.
There are some activities that are not considered employment: Link.
Work Hour Restrictions
For minors aged 14 and 15 (if not covered by FLSA):
May not work before: 7:00 a.m.
May not work after: 10:00 p.m. (except on nights that do not precede a school day)
Maximum hours:
8 hours per day
40 hours per week
For minors aged 16 and 17: No hour restrictions are specified under Kansas law for this age group.
Minors and the Age in Which They Cannot Be Employed in Certain Occupations
No child under 18 may be employed in any occupation declared hazardous by the U.S. Secretary of Labor.
This includes all occupations listed under the Hazardous Occupation Orders of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) as of July 1, 1973.
Additionally, no child under 18 shall be employed in any occupation, trade, or business that is dangerous or injurious to their life, health, safety, morals, or welfare.
The Kansas State Labor Commissioner is authorized to hold public hearings and adopt rules prohibiting or regulating such employment.
Breaks: Not mandated by law.
Penalties:
Violations of hazardous occupation restrictions or hour limitations may be subject to enforcement by the Kansas Department of Labor or the U.S. Department of Labor, depending on jurisdiction.
Any person, firm, or corporation that employs a minor in violation of Kansas child labor laws, or who permits or connives at such a violation, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Upon conviction, the offender shall be subject to:
A fine of not less than $25 and not more than $100, or
Imprisonment in the county jail for not less than 30 days and not more than 90 days, or both.
Exceptions: Minors aged 16–17 may work in certain hazardous occupations if:
Employed by a parent or guardian.
Supervised by an adult.
Engaged in nonhazardous aspects of electrical trades (e.g., pulling wire, setting boxes).
Regulatory Oversight: The Commissioner of Workplace Standards may issue more restrictive regulations than federal law to protect minors’ health, safety, and welfare.
Breaks:
Lunch Break:
Required after 5 hours of continuous work.
Must be at least 30 minutes.
Must be documented by the employer.
Rest Break:
Required 10-minute rest period for every 4 hours worked.
Must be in addition to lunch.
No reduction in pay is allowed.
Penalties:
Violations of KRS 339.210 to 339.450 may result in:
Civil penalties of $100 to $1,000 per violation
$100 per day for continued violations after notification
Each minor employed in violation constitutes a separate offense.
Additional violations include:
Obstructing inspections
Permitting minors to work in prohibited conditions
All minors: May not work more than 5 hours continuously without a 30-minute non-working break.
Minors aged 14–15:
During school weeks:
Max 3 hours/day on school days
Max 18 hours/week
When school is not in session:
Max 8 hours/day
Max 40 hours/week
Permitted work hours:
7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Extended to 9:00 p.m. from June 1 to Labor Day
Work-study or student-learner program hours are not counted toward these limits.
Minors aged 16–17:
May not exceed 12 hours combined school and work time per day.
Must have at least 8 consecutive hours of non-school, non-work time in each 24-hour period
Minors and the Age in Which They Cannot Be Employed in Certain Occupations
All minors are prohibited from working in hazardous occupations as defined by the U.S. Secretary of Labor and adopted by Maryland’s Commissioner of Labor and Industry. These include:
Explosives, mining, coal mining
Logging, sawmills, woodworking machinery
Motor vehicle driving and outside helper.
Slaughtering, meatpacking, rendering
Roofing, excavation, demolition, wrecking
Power-driven machinery (e.g., bakery, paper, metal forming, hoisting apparatus)
Toxic chemicals, dust/gas exposure, and any occupation deemed injurious by the Commissioner.
Minors aged 14–15 are additionally restricted from:
Manufacturing, mechanical, or processing occupations
Construction, scaffolding, hoisting apparatus
Cooking and baking (with limited exceptions)
Warehousing, welding, and use of power-driven mowers or cutters
Door-to-door sales (with exceptions for school or youth organizations)
Work involving boats, airports, or emergency scenes.
Breaks: All minors must receive a 30-minute non-working break after 5 hours of continuous work
Penalties: Fines up to $10,000 or imprisonment for a maximum of 6 months, or both. Imprisonment is only applicable if the individual has been previously convicted for violating the Fair Labor Standards Act
A work permit is generally required for minors under 17 to work during school hours.
For minors aged 14 and 15, a work permit is needed to work during school hours, which is obtained from the school district, not the Department of Labor and Industry (Link).
Work Hour Restrictions
Under 16:
Cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m. (except for newspaper carriers).
Cannot work more than 40 hours a week or 8 hours in a day (except in agriculture).
Cannot work during school hours unless an employment certificate is issued by the school district.
The combined school attendance and employment time for minors under 16 cannot exceed 9 hours in one day.
16 and 17:
Cannot work after 11 p.m. on nights before school or before 5 a.m. on school days.
Can work a maximum of 6 days a week.
Prohibited Occupations:
General Prohibitions: Minors are generally prohibited from working in hazardous occupations.
Minnesota law also requires restroom breaks for all employees, including minors. A break of less than 20 minutes must be counted as hours worked. (Link)
Penalties:
An employer who violates the Minnesota Child Labor Act is subject to fines for each employee, for each violation.
Work permits are required for minors under 16 working in certain occupations, like mills, canneries, workshops, or factories. These permits typically require an affidavit from the parent or guardian and a certificate from the school. ( 71-1-19)
Work Hour Restrictions
Minors 14-15 years old:
Can work between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM (extended to 9:00 PM between June 1 and Labor Day).
Limited to 3 hours per day on school days.
Limited to 18 hours per week during the school year.
Can work up to 8 hours on non-school days and a maximum of 40 hours per week during summer break.
Minors 16-17 years old: No work hour restrictions in non-hazardous occupations.
Prohibited Occupations:
Minors under 16 are generally prohibited from working in hazardous occupations, including those in transportation, construction, warehousing, communications, and public utilities.
They also cannot work in processing, mining, or any workroom where goods are manufactured or processed.
Other prohibited occupations include operating power-driven machinery (except office machines), baking, and certain sales activities.
Breaks: Employers in Mississippi do not have to provide either rest or meal breaks.
Penalties:
Any corporation, person, or manager of any company or partnership who violates any provision of the Youth Employment Standards Act (YESA) for which a penalty is not otherwise provided shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. ( 71-1-53)
Upon conviction, the offender shall be:
Fined not less than $25 and not more than $250 for each offense.
Each day’s violation constitutes a separate offense.
A work permit is required for minors under 16 who are employed (Link)
Youth who are 14 or 15 generally are permitted to work, but their work, as well as the work of all children in the entertainment industry, is subject to restrictions.
Work Hour Restrictions
Youth under 16 have specific restrictions on the number of hours they can work (Link).
Generally, they cannot work more than 3 hours on a school day, 8 hours on a non-school day, 18 hours in a school week, or 40 hours in a non-school week.
Work is also prohibited during school hours.
From Labor Day to June 1st, youth under 16 cannot work before 7:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m. Between June 1st and Labor Day, they cannot work before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m.
Prohibited Occupations:
Youth under 16 are prohibited from working in certain hazardous occupations.
This includes jobs involving power-driven equipment, cooking, baking, handling hot oil or grease, working in freezer or meat coolers, and driving.
Certain occupations are also prohibited in establishments where alcohol sales account for more than 50% of gross sales.
Specific restrictions also apply to work in hotels.
Missouri law does not require employers to provide employees with a break of any kind, including a lunch hour
The entertainment industry requires breaks and rest periods for youth workers. (Link)
Penalties:
Violation of Missouri’s child labor laws can result in a Class C misdemeanor.
There are also civil penalties, with fines ranging from $50 to $1,000 for each violation.
Additionally, the Federal Labor Standards Act (FLSA) can impose fines for willful violations, potentially up to $10,000, and even imprisonment for repeated offenses.
Does not require work permits for minors under 16 in non-hazardous occupations.
Work Hour Restrictions
Minors 14-15:
Cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. but can work until 9 p.m. from June 1st through Labor Day.
Cannot work more than 3 hours on a school day, 18 hours in a school week, 8 hours on a non-school day, or 40 hours in a week during non-school periods.
Minors 16-17:
Cannot work before 11 p.m. on nights before a school day or before 5 a.m. on school days.
Cannot work more than 40 hours per week.
Prohibited Occupations:
Prohibited Employment Of Minors Who Are 16 And 17 Years of Age: Link.
Prohibited Employment Of Minors Who Are 14 And 15 Years Of Age: Link.
Minors under 16 in Nebraska are required to have an employment certificate (work permit) before starting work.
Work Hour Restrictions
General: Minors under 16 cannot work before 6 a.m. or after 10 p.m., except in specific situations.
School Days: They cannot work during school hours and are limited to 3 hours on a school day.
Non-School Days: They can work up to 8 hours on a non-school day.
Weekly Limits: They cannot work more than 48 hours per week.
Special Permits: The Nebraska Department of Labor can issue special permits for work outside the regular 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. window if there is no school the next day, and after a working conditions inspection.
Prohibited Occupations:
Nebraska prohibits minors under 16 from working in any job that is dangerous to their life, limb, or health, or that could harm their morals.
Breaks: Nebraska law requires a 30-minute unpaid break for every 8-hour shift for employees working in workshops, manufacturing plants, and assembly lines.
Nevada youth under 16 years of age may not be employed in any work which by reason of the nature of the work is dangerous to life or limb, or in which their health may be injured or their morals depraved.
Update: Effective 10/1/2025, minors under 16 years old may only be employed as a performer in the production of a motion picture or on a farm and may work for no more than 40 hours per week (previously 48 hours per week). Minors 16 to 18 years old may only work from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. on a night before a school day if they are employed as a messenger; lifeguard; employee of an arcade; stage, theatrical, or motion picture performer; or employee of a farm if the child is enrolled in school and not emancipated [A.B. 215, L. 2025]. Employers must post abstract: Child Labor Posting
General limits:
Max 8 hours/day.
Max 48 hours/week (Max 40 for minors under 16)
No work before 6:00 a.m.
No work after:
8:00 p.m. if under 14.
10:00 p.m. if 14–15 (unless special permit is granted).
11:00 p.m. if 16–18
Detasseling (ages 12–15):
Max 9 hours/day.
Max 40 hours/week.
Work hours: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (under 14), or to 10:00 p.m. (14–15).
Only during June–August and outside school hours.
Minors and the Age in Which They Cannot Be Employed in Certain Occupations
Minors under 16 may NOT be employed in:
Any occupation or location that is:
Dangerous to life or limb
Injurious to health
Morally depraving
Specific prohibitions include:
Hazardous work as defined by the Department of Labor
Door-to-door solicitation (with exceptions for newspaper delivery or entrepreneurial endeavors)
Work involving alcohol (unless exempted)
Work in dangerous, unhealthy, or immoral environments
Breaks:
Lunch Breaks: Nebraska law requires a 30-minute unpaid lunch break for employees working in workshops, manufacturing plants, and assembly lines.
Rest Breaks: There is no law requiring employers to provide coffee breaks, smoke breaks, or other rest periods.
Penalties:
Violations are classified as Class II misdemeanors.
Penalties apply to:
Employers who unlawfully employ minors
Parents or guardians who permit such employment.
Employers who fail to produce employment certificates upon request
Anyone who obstructs inspections or falsifies documents.
Each day of continued violation is considered a separate offense.
Youths under 18 must have parental permission to work.
14- and 15-year-olds need a youth work certificate.
16- and 17-year-olds need a Parental Permission Form.
Work Hour Restrictions
Minors under 16 years old:
Permitted work hours:
Not before 7:00 a.m.
Not after 9:00 p.m.
During school days:
Up to 3 hours per day.
Up to 23 hours per week.
During non-school days or vacation weeks:
Up to 8 hours per day.
Up to 48 hours per week.
Note: The commissioner may lift these restrictions in certain cases involving agricultural work.
Minors aged 16 and 17 (enrolled in school):
May not be scheduled for more than:
35 hours per week during any designated work week when school is in session for 5 days.
6 consecutive days, unless residing and working at a summer camp.
When school is not in session:
May work up to 48 hours per week.
Additional Notes:
Employers should be aware that special restrictions apply to minors of any age engaged in manual or mechanical labor, particularly regarding hours worked and scheduling.
No one under 18 can work in occupations deemed hazardous by the Secretary of Labor.
Breaks: It requires a 30-minute meal break after 5 consecutive hours of work unless the employer allows the employee to eat while working and it is feasible.
Penalties:
If a student does not continue to meet a satisfactory level of academic performance the certificate may be revoked.
Employers violating child labor laws face fines and imprisonment (276-A:7 Penalties)
All minors under 18 must have an employment certificate or a special permit (e.g., for agriculture, newspaper delivery, or theatrical employment) for each job, according to the New Jersey. Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
Work Hour Restrictions
Minors under 16 can work a maximum of 40 hours per week and 8 hours per day.
They can only work outside of school hours during the school year.
Minors 16 and older can work up to 50 hours per week and 10 hours per day, only between the last day of school and Labor Day.
Minors under 16 cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m., with exceptions for certain retail establishments.
Examples include: the manufacture or packing of paints, colors, white lead, or red lead; handling dangerous acids or dyes; and exposure to benzol or benzol compounds.
Breaks:
Minors must be given a 30-minute meal break after 6 continuous hours of work.
Breaks shorter than 30 minutes do not interrupt the continuous work period (Link).
Penalties:
Employers who violate child labor laws can face fines or other sanctions.
The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development enforces these laws.
Parents can file complaints with the department if they believe a child labor law has been violated.
A work permit is required for the employment of children under 16 (Link).
Work Hour Restrictions
Minors 14 and 15 can work outside of school hours, up to 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 (Link).
They cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. during the school year, except from June 1st to Labor Day when hours can be extended to 9 p.m.
Prohibited Occupations:
Children under 18 are prohibited from working in underground mines or quarries, or at places where explosives are used.
Minors under 16 are further prohibited from certain occupations, including those that are dangerous to their lives and limbs, or injurious to their health or morals.
This includes jobs in boiler/engine rooms, maintenance/repair of machines, outside window washing, and occupations involving food processing equipment, as well as any hazardous occupations declared by the FLSA, according to the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
Breaks: does not require meal breaks or rest periods.
Penalties:
Violations of child labor laws can result in fines for the employer.
The New Mexico Labor and Industrial Bureau investigates complaints and can impose penalties.
Federal regulations may also result in civil money penalties for violations of the FLSA.
A work permit is required for the employment of children under 16 (Link).
Work Hour Restrictions
Minors 14 and 15 can work outside of school hours, up to 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 (Link).
They cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. during the school year, except from June 1st to Labor Day when hours can be extended to 9 p.m.
Prohibited Occupations:
Children under 18 are prohibited from working in underground mines or quarries, or at places where explosives are used.
Minors under 16 are further prohibited from certain occupations, including those that are dangerous to their lives and limbs, or injurious to their health or morals.
This includes jobs in boiler/engine rooms, maintenance/repair of machines, outside window washing, and occupations involving food processing equipment, as well as any hazardous occupations declared by the FLSA, according to the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
Breaks: does not require meal breaks or rest periods.
Penalties:
Violations of child labor laws can result in fines for the employer.
The New Mexico Labor and Industrial Bureau investigates complaints and can impose penalties.
Federal regulations may also result in civil money penalties for violations of the FLSA.
14 and 15-year-olds:Cannot work more than 8 hours a day or 40 hours a week.
They cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. (9 p.m. during school vacations).
They cannot work during school hours.
16 and 17-year-olds:No specific time restrictions on the number of daily working hours, but they cannot work between 12 a.m. (1 a.m. before a non-school day) and 6 a.m.
Prohibited Occupations:
Youths under 16: Cannot work in manufacturing, mining, construction, with power-driven machinery, or on the premises of businesses with ABC permits for on-premises alcohol sales.
Hazardous occupations: No youth under 18 can work in hazardous occupations like manufacturing or storing explosives, driving a motor vehicle, or coal mining.
Specific industry limitations: Some industries, like those with ABC permits, have additional restrictions on youth employment (Link)
Breaks: does not require employers to provide rest breaks
Penalties:
First violation:Civil penalty up to $500.
Subsequent violations: Civil penalty up to $1,000 each.
Statute of limitations:2 years from the date of the violation (§ 95-25.23).
Minimum 30-minute break: Must be provided in each shift exceeding 5 hours when 2 or more employees are on duty, says the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights.
Unpaid Breaks: Employers are not required to pay for the break if the employee is completely relieved of their duties, says the North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights.
Penalties: Any person found guilty of an infraction will be subjected to civil the penalties that the labor commissioner orders (34-07-21).
Minors under 18 must have a work permit issued by a school official. They may accept a job before obtaining it but cannot begin work until the permit is issued and shown to the employer. Employers must notify the issuing officer within 5 days of hiring or terminating a minor (Link).
Known as the Age and Schooling Certificate or Employment Certificate.
Work Hour Restrictions
Under 14: Generally prohibited from working, with exceptions (e.g., family farms, domestic service, caddies, newspaper delivery, entertainment).
Ages 14–15:
School in session: Max 3 hrs./day, 18 hrs./week; work between 7 AM–7 PM
School out: Max 8 hrs./day, 40 hrs./week; work between 7 AM–9 PM
Ages 16–17:
School in session: Max 8 hrs./day, 28 hrs./week; work between 6 AM–12 AM
School out: Max 10 hrs./day, 48 hrs./week (not compelled to exceed 45 hrs.); work between 6 AM–1 AM
Prohibited Occupations: The law prohibits minors from working in certain hazardous establishments and occupations, as well as those that could endanger their health, safety, or well-being.
Breaks: Minors must receive a 30-minute uninterrupted break after 5 consecutive hours of work.
Penalties: The Department of Labor and Industry (L&I) enforces the Child Labor Act and can impose administrative penalties, order corrective actions, and potentially pursue criminal charges for violations. Penalties can include fines of up to $5,000 per violation.
14 and 15-year-olds: Cannot work during school hours, before 6:00 AM or after 7:00 PM (9:00 PM during school vacations). They cannot work more than 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week, with exceptions for Work Experience and Career Exploration Programs (WECEP).
16 and 17-year-olds: Cannot work before 6:00 AM or after 11:30 PM (1:30 AM if no school the next day). They cannot work more than 48 hours per week or 9 hours per day.
Eight-Hour Rest: Both 14/15 and 16/17 year olds must have an 8-hour rest between shifts (Link).
Prohibited Occupations:
Both 14/15 and 16/17 year olds are prohibited from working in certain hazardous occupations (Link).
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) also prohibits certain hazardous occupations for minors under 18.
Breaks:
Minors under 18 must have a documented uninterrupted 30-minute break if they work more than 5 hours.
Employers in Rhode Island are legally required to provide meal breaks to employees whose shifts last over 6 hours, 20 or 30 minutes of paid meal break.
Penalties:
The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training (DLT) enforces child labor laws under RIGL § 28-3. Employers who violate these laws may face:
Administrative penalties imposed by the DLT.
Fines up to $5,000 per violation for each violation (amounts vary depending on the nature and severity of the offense).
Corrective actions ordered by the DLT.
Potential criminal charges for willful or repeated violations.
Hazardous occupations: Minors under 18 are prohibited from working in hazardous occupations as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
Agricultural occupations: Specific restrictions apply to agricultural occupations, such as felling, bucking, skidding, or loading timber, working with agricultural chemicals, or transporting anhydrous ammonia.
Breaks:
South Carolina does not have a specific law requiring employers to provide meal breaks.
However, breaks under 20 minutes must be paid.
Meal breaks of 30 minutes or longer can be unpaid if the employee is not working during that time.
Penalties:
Employers who violate child labor laws can be fined and imprisoned.
Each violation and each day the violation continues can constitute a separate offense.
Hazardous occupations: Minors under 18 are prohibited from working in hazardous occupations as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
Agricultural occupations: Specific restrictions apply to agricultural occupations, such as felling, bucking, skidding, or loading timber, working with agricultural chemicals, or transporting anhydrous ammonia.
Breaks:
South Carolina does not have a specific law requiring employers to provide meal breaks.
However, breaks under 20 minutes must be paid.
Meal breaks of 30 minutes or longer can be unpaid if the employee is not working during that time.
Penalties:
Employers who violate child labor laws can be fined and imprisoned.
Each violation and each day the violation continues can constitute a separate offense.
Does not require a work permit, but employers must keep proof of a minor’s age.
Work Hour Restrictions
14-15 years old: Cannot work during school hours, up to 3 hours per day on school days, and 18 hours per week when school is in session. During school breaks, they can work up to 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week.
16-17 years old: Can work until 10 pm (midnight with parental consent for 3 nights a week) and may not work more than 40 hours per week.
General: Cannot work more than 10 hours consecutively or more than 10 hours in a 24-hour period
Prohibited Occupations: Minors are prohibited from working in certain dangerous occupations, including those involving hazardous machinery or equipment, or in jobs with a high risk of injury.
Breaks: A 30-minute unpaid break or meal period is required if a minor is scheduled to work 6 hours consecutively.
Penalties: Employers violating the Child Labor Act may face fines of up to $1,000 per violation and/or be deemed guilty of a Class A Misdemeanor. Civil money penalties may also be assessed.
Minors under 16 generally need an Employment Certificate (also known as a Work Permit) before starting employment.
A Work Permit and/or Age Certification document is required for minors under 16.
Work Hour Restrictions
Minors under 16 can work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week during non-school periods, with a maximum of 6 days per week.
During school, they can work up to 3 hours per school day and 18 hours per school week, with limitations on working between 7 pm and 7 am during school days.
Minors aged 16 and 17 have no specific maximum hour restrictions but must comply with compulsory school attendance laws.
Prohibited Occupations:
All minors are prohibited from working in hazardous occupations, including those involving explosives, logging, sawmilling, demolition, shipbreaking, ionizing radiation, excavation, firefighting, mining, and serving alcoholic beverages.
Minors under 18 are generally prohibited from working in any occupation deemed hazardous or detrimental to their health.
They are also prohibited from working in establishments where consumption of alcoholic beverages is the main business (with exceptions) and as drivers or helpers on trucks with more than two axles.
Breaks: Employers must provide a 30-minute meal break on or before five consecutive hours of work.
Penalties:
Employers who violate child labor laws may face civil penalties, which can range from a minimum of $500 to a maximum of $2,500 per violation.
For violations resulting in serious injury or death, the maximum penalty can increase to $25,000.
Employers may also be subject to fines and court action.
Employers can request an informal conference with the Commissioner of Labor and Industry within 21 days of receiving notice of a penalty.
Parental and school authorization are required for minors to work, either through a Parent/School Authorization form or a Parent Authorization for Summer Work form.
Work Hour Restrictions
14- and 15-year-olds have restricted hours during the school year.
They can work a maximum of 3 hours on a school day and 8 hours on a non-school day.
They can work a maximum of 18 hours per week during the school year.
Outside of school hours, they can work a maximum of 40 hours per week.
Some employers can apply for variances from these restrictions.
For Additional information in Non-Agricultural or Agricultural Jobs: Link.
Prohibited Occupations:
Certain hazardous jobs and duties are prohibited for minors.
These include operating heavy machinery, working with hazardous substances, and other tasks.
Examples of prohibited duties include working on roofs, in construction, or operating powered equipment (for additional information: Link).
Breaks:
There are specific requirements for rest breaks and meal periods for minors, particularly those in service occupations.
Minors working after 8 p.m. in service occupations (like restaurants) must be supervised by a responsible adult on the premises.
Penalties:
Civil penalties are assessed using mandatory minimum tiers under Washington State law based on the type and severity of the violation, rather than a single per‑minor maximum.
Minimum civil penalty tiers include (per violation):
$100 for non-serious paperwork or recordkeeping violations.
$150 for hours of work violations.
$300 for meal or rest break violations.
$1,000 or more for serious violations, including prohibited duties, variance violations, or minimum wage violations involving minors.
$71,000 or more (state law) for violations resulting in a minor’s serious injury or death, with higher penalties for willful or repeated violations.
Penalties may increase for willful, repeated, or ongoing violations, including daily penalties while violations continue, and are subject to biennial inflation adjustments beginning July 1, 2027.
Washington L&I may revoke an employer’s Minor Work Permit for serious, willful, or repeated violations, including immediate revocation for violations resulting in a minor’s serious injury or death.
Severe or knowing violations may also result in criminal liability under Washington law, including gross misdemeanor or Class C felony charges.
Federal child labor penalties under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) may apply separately and in addition to Washington State penalties, including federal civil money penalties of up to $16,035 per standard violation and up to $72,876 for violations involving a minor’s serious injury or death, subject to enhancement for willful or repeated violations.
Effectively July 11, 2025, an employer must obtain parental consent and an age certificate issued by the State Commission of Labor before employing 14- or 15-year-olds. W. Va. Code § 61-8A-3; W. Va. Code § 21-6-5; W. Va. CSR § 42-9-6.
Out-of-state minors must obtain permits or certificates using West Virginia forms.
Employment Restrictions:
Minors under 14 years of age may not be employed in any occupation except if a specifically enumerated exception applies. W. Va. Code § 21-6-1.
Minors under 18 may not be employed in specifically enumerated occupations, unless an exception applies. W. Va. Code § 21-6-2.
All minors cannot be employed in industry involving sexually explicit content. W. Va. Code § 61-8A-5.
Exemptions and Exceptions
For exceptions to the prohibition against employment of minors under 14, see W. Va. Code § 21-6-1.
Work Hour Restrictions
Ages 14–15:
When school is in session:
Max 3 hours/day, 18 hours/week
Work hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
When school is not in session:
Max 8 hours/day, 40 hours/week
Work hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM (June–Labor Day)
These limitations do not apply to minors under 14 performing jobs pursuant to W. Va. Code § 21-6-1. W. Va. Code § 21-6-7.
Breaks: Must receive a 30-minute lunch break after 5 hours of work
Ages 16–17:
No hour restrictions
Breaks: Same as adults—20-minute break after 6 hours of work
An employer who employs a minor aged 16 or older may request a proof of age. W. Va. Code § 21-6-5; W. Va. CSR § 42-9-8.
Minors and the Age in Which They Cannot Be Employed in Certain Occupations
Prohibited for All Minors Under 18:
Seventeen federally defined hazardous occupations, including:
Explosives, motor vehicle operation, coal mining, logging, sawmilling
This communication is intended solely for the purpose of conveying information. The present post might incorporate hyperlinks directing readers to websites managed by third-party entities. The inclusion of any links within this communication is meant to serve as points of reference and could encompass opinion articles from various law firms, articles from HR associations, official websites, news releases, and documents of government agencies, and other relevant third-party sources. Vensure has no authority over these external websites and bears no responsibility for their content. Furthermore, Vensure does not endorse the materials present on these websites. The contents of this communication should not be interpreted as legal advice or as a legal standpoint concerning specific facts or scenarios. Nor should it be deemed an exhaustive compilation of facts potentially pertinent to federal, state, or local laws. It is strongly advised that employers solicit legal guidance from an employment attorney when undertaking actions in response to any legal updates provided. This is due to the possibility of future alterations occurring in federal, state, and local laws, regulations, as well as the directives and guidelines issued by governing agencies. These changes may transpire at any given time, potentially rendering certain portions of the content within this update void or inaccurate.
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