With students heading back to the classroom, employers should take a moment to review California’s child labor laws before hiring minors. California imposes strict requirements governing when minors may work, the number of hours they can work, the types of jobs they may perform, their wages, and the permits required before employment begins.
Below is an overview of some of the key rules applicable to minors employed in California, including restrictions on work hours and permit requirements. Employers should keep in mind that this is not a comprehensive summary, and additional obligations may apply when employing minors. Certain industries are also subject to separate rules, with significantly different requirements for minors working in the entertainment industry.
California’s requirements also differ from the U.S. Department of Labor regulations and the requirements of other states. Therefore, it is important to verify the applicable requirements in each state where an employer employs minors.
In California, children may begin working at age 12.
During the school year, 12 and 13-year-olds may only work on weekends, holidays, and school vacations. They cannot work on any school day, whether before, during, or after school.
When school is not in session, they may work:
From June 1 through Labor Day, evening hours may be extended until 9:00 p.m.
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