Summer brings a steady stream of teenagers looking for seasonal work, and many might end up knocking on your dealership’s door. Young workers can provide cost-effective assistance for Ohio auto dealerships to staff lot attendant positions, car-washing, and customer-service roles. But hiring minors is never as simple as filling an open shift. Employing teens means you have to consider a slew of legal obligations, not only from Ohio state law, but also from the federal government. And getting it wrong can be costly, with federal civil penalties now reaching $16,035 per violation. This Insight walks Ohio dealer principals and HR managers through what you need to know before teens clock in this summer.

Ohio State Law Requirements

Start with the state-law fundamentals.

• Confirm age: No one under 14 may be employed. The federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets 14 as the absolute floor for non-agricultural employment, and Ohio’s minor labor law (Ohio Revised Code Chapter 4109) follows the same rule. If a prospective hire cannot document that they are at least 14, do not proceed.
• Obtain a work permit for all 14 and 15-year-olds. Any minor aged 14 or 15 must present a valid Age and Schooling Certificate, commonly called a work permit, before starting work. The permit is issued by the superintendent of the minor’s school district, and you must keep it on file. If the minor changes jobs, a new permit is required. Upon termination, return the permit to the issuing authority, or...

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