Working as a teenager can be a good way to build skills, earn money, and gain some early experience. But in California, there are strong rules in place to make sure minors aren’t being overworked, mistreated, or missing school because of a job. These rules are meant to keep young people safe while allowing them to explore work opportunities in a healthy way. Nakase Law Firm Inc. frequently advises families and businesses on how to comply with child labor laws in California to prevent potential legal disputes.
The laws cover everything from how old a child must be to work, to what kinds of jobs they can do, to how many hours they’re allowed to work. California doesn’t leave much room for confusion—there’s a detailed system in place. Employers are expected to follow the rules closely, and parents should stay involved as well. California Business Lawyer & Corporate Lawyer Inc. often fields questions from employers about whether comp time for PTO arrangements are legally compatible with youth employment restrictions.
Permits Are Required for Working Minors
In California, teens under 18 usually need a work permit before starting a job. These aren’t just for school records—they’re required by law. Whether a student goes to public school, private school, or is homeschooled, the same rule applies. The permit proves the teen is allowed to work and that the job won’t interfere with school or their well-being.
To get one, the teen, their parent or guardian, and the employer fill out a form called the “Statement of Intent to Employ a Minor and Request for a Work Permit.” The student brings that form to their school, and the school checks their grades and attendance before approving it. The permit must be renewed every school year.
Work Hours Vary by Age and Season
The number of hours a young person can work depends on their age and whether school is in session. These limits are in place to make sure students can keep up with their classes and still have time for rest.
- Ages 12–13: Children this age can only work during school breaks, and never during regular school hours. Their options are limited to things like newspaper delivery or helping in a family-run business, as long as the work is safe.
- Ages 14–15:
- During the school year: They can work up to 3 hours a day on school days and no more than 18 hours a week. Work must be done between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
- During school breaks: They can work up to 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week, and can work as late as 9 p.m. between June 1 and Labor Day.
- Ages 16–17:
- While school is in session: Up to 4 hours on school days, 8 hours on non-school days, and a total of no more than 48 hours per week.
- When school is out: They can work full days—up to 8 hours daily and 48 hours weekly.
These restrictions apply to nearly every job, with only a few exceptions.
Certain Jobs Are Off Limits
Some work environments just aren’t suitable for minors, and California makes that clear. The state keeps a list of jobs that are considered unsafe or too intense for teens.
- Hazardous Work: Teens can’t be hired for jobs that involve using explosives, heavy machinery, or working in areas like roofing, mining, and meatpacking. These jobs come with higher risks, so they’re off the table for minors.
- Alcohol and Adult Settings: Teens under 18 aren’t allowed to work in bars or nightclubs. If a business serves alcohol but primarily operates as a restaurant, teens might be allowed to work there—but they can’t handle or serve alcohol.
- Inappropriate Businesses: Any job that puts a minor in an adult-only or sexualized environment is not allowed under any condition.
School Comes First
Education remains a top priority under California’s labor system for minors. Any teen working while school is in session must be enrolled in school and must be attending regularly.
Before giving out a work permit, the school checks the student’s grades and attendance. If a teen isn’t keeping up in school, the school can refuse to issue or renew the permit. In some cases, schools offer special work-based learning programs that let students gain work experience in approved roles while earning credits.
Entertainment Work Has Its Own Rules
Minors working in the entertainment industry face a different set of conditions. Because work in film or television often involves long hours and unique demands, California has put extra protections in place.
- Studio Teachers: These professionals are on-site during filming to teach the child and make sure the work environment follows the law.
- Work Hour Limits: Younger children have even tighter restrictions. For example, kids under 9 may only be allowed to work a few hours per day with required rest periods and schooling time included.
- Earnings Protection: A percentage of the child’s income must go into a special blocked trust account, often called a “Coogan Account,” which the child can access as an adult.
What Happens When Employers Break the Rules
When a business doesn’t follow child labor rules, the consequences can be serious. California doesn’t treat these violations lightly.
- Fines: Businesses caught violating these laws may be fined anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for each offense.
- Criminal Charges: If violations are repeated or done intentionally, criminal charges may apply, including the possibility of jail time.
- Loss of Hiring Privileges: Companies that don’t follow the rules could lose the right to employ minors altogether.
When Exceptions Might Apply
Not every type of work requires a permit or falls under the standard child labor rules. Here are a few situations where the rules are looser:
- Self-Employment: Teens running their own business or freelancing might not need a work permit, depending on the type of work.
- Babysitting or Chores: Informal work like babysitting or mowing a neighbor’s lawn doesn’t typically require a permit.
- Helping the Family: Kids helping in a parent’s business may be allowed to do so as long as the job isn’t dangerous.
Even in these cases, it’s still important to make sure the work doesn’t interfere with school or safety.
What Employers Must Do
Businesses that hire teens have to follow some clear steps. It’s not just about the permit—there are ongoing responsibilities as well.
- Keep Records: Employers must keep a copy of the work permit on file at the workplace and have it ready for inspection if needed.
- Breaks and Rest: Just like adult workers, teens are entitled to breaks. They must get a 10-minute break every four hours and a 30-minute meal break if their shift is more than five hours.
- Safe Conditions: Employers must create an environment that’s safe and appropriate for minors. That includes proper supervision and protective equipment if necessary.
Final Thoughts
The rules around youth employment in California are clear, detailed, and designed to protect students from unsafe work conditions or situations that interfere with school. These laws help set boundaries that benefit both young workers and responsible employers. While the guidelines may seem strict, they support a balance between gaining job experience and staying on track with education and health.
Whether you’re a parent helping your child get their first job, a teen excited to earn a paycheck, or an employer looking to hire younger workers, understanding these rules is key to avoiding problems later on. A little planning goes a long way in keeping everything above board—and keeping everyone safe.
