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Employing Minors

Employment of minors is regulated under numerous authorities such as the California Labor Code, the California Education Code and the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This section explains the employment of minors. It includes exceptions and restrictions, work permits, record keeping, wages and possible penalties when codes or laws are violated.

Employing Minors CoverageEmploying Minors Coverage
Almost all employees under the age of 18 are covered by California's child labor protections. Under the California Labor Code, "minor" means any person under the age of 18 years who is required to attend school under the provisions of the California Education Code, and includes all minors under the age of six. With limited exceptions, all minors must have a work permit.

Employment Restrictions for MinorsEmployment Restrictions for Minors
Employment in certain industries, such as entertainment and agriculture, is covered by different requirements than most other industries.

Work Permits for a MinorWork Permits for a Minor
With certain limited exceptions, you must acquire the required work permits before employing a minor. Permits are required year-round, even when school is not in session. A work permit limits the maximum number of work days and hours allowed for the minor and the spread of hours permitted. The spread of hours is the earliest time a minor can start work and the latest time he/she can end work each day. The permit can also contain limitations on other aspects of the minor’s work. The back of the work permit contains a summary of restricted occupations based on a minor’s age and legal restrictions on hours of work.

Working Hours for a MinorWorking Hours for a Minor
The total number of hours a minor can work and the permitted spread of hours, varies depending on the age of the minor and the time of year in which work will be performed.

Wages for a MinorWages for a Minor
You cannot pay minors who have graduated from high school or have a Certificate of Proficiency less than adult employees in the same establishment for the same quantity and quality of work.

Penalties for Incorrectly Employing a MinorPenalties for Incorrectly Employing a Minor
If you employ or permit underage minors to work in a prohibited occupation or hazardous duty — no matter how voluntary the act is on the part of the minor — you are liable for Class A penalties.

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