If you’re a teenager or parent in California, you might be asking: what age can you start working in California? Knowing when you can legally start working is important for both minors and their families. California has specific labor laws in place that protect young workers, ensuring they can gain work experience while still focusing on school. In this article, we’ll explore the minimum working age, labor laws for minors, and the types of jobs young workers are allowed to do.
What Age Can You Start Working in California?
In California, the minimum age to start working is 14 years old, but there are exceptions for younger workers in certain situations. California law follows the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which sets guidelines for when and how minors can work. While 14 is the general minimum age, children as young as 12 can work in specific fields, such as entertainment, with special permits.
However, just because you can start working at 14 doesn’t mean you can work full-time or in any job. The state has specific rules about the types of work minors can do and how many hours they are allowed to work, especially during the school year.
Labor Laws for Minors in California
California has strict labor laws to ensure that minors can work without it affecting their education or safety. These laws limit the types of jobs minors can take, the number of hours they can work, and the conditions of their employment.
Here’s a breakdown of the key labor laws for minors:
1. Work Permits for Minors
In California, if you’re under 18 and want to work, you’ll need a work permit. The work permit is usually issued by your school and gives you permission to work while attending classes. Even during the summer, when school is out, minors are still required to have a work permit before starting a job.
To get a work permit, you’ll need to:
- Fill out an application (usually provided by the school or employer)
- Get approval from a parent or guardian
- Have your employer fill out part of the form
- Submit it to your school for final approval
Once your work permit is approved, you can legally start working.
2. Hours Minors Can Work
The number of hours minors can work depends on their age and whether school is in session. California law is designed to ensure that young workers can balance their jobs and education.
- Ages 14–15: When school is in session, 14- and 15-year-olds can work up to 3 hours per day on school days and a maximum of 18 hours per week. During school vacations, they can work up to 8 hours per day and a maximum of 40 hours per week. Work hours must fall between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. (extended to 9 p.m. in the summer).
- Ages 16–17: For 16- and 17-year-olds, the rules are a bit more relaxed. When school is in session, they can work up to 4 hours per day on school days and a maximum of 48 hours per week. During school vacations, they can work up to 8 hours per day and 48 hours per week. Work hours must fall between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. (extended to 12:30 a.m. if they’re not attending school the next day).
3. Restricted Jobs for Minors
While minors are allowed to work in many industries, certain jobs are considered too dangerous or inappropriate for young workers. California law restricts minors from working in hazardous jobs, including:
- Operating heavy machinery
- Working in mining or construction
- Using power tools or industrial equipment
- Handling toxic substances or chemicals
These restrictions are designed to protect young workers from dangerous work environments and ensure their safety on the job.
Exceptions to the Minimum Working Age
While the general rule is that you can start working at 14 in California, there are some exceptions for younger workers:
1. Entertainment Industry
California is known for its entertainment industry, and minors of almost any age can work in films, television, and theater. However, they must obtain an entertainment work permit from the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE).
Entertainment work permits allow minors to work in acting, modeling, and other entertainment-related jobs, but they are still subject to restrictions on working hours to ensure their education and well-being are not compromised.
2. Family Businesses
Children younger than 14 may be allowed to work in a family-owned business as long as the work is not hazardous. For example, a 12-year-old might be allowed to help out in a family restaurant or shop. However, even in these cases, the child’s safety and education must be prioritized.
3. Agricultural Work
In some cases, minors as young as 12 can work in agricultural jobs, particularly if the work is done outside of school hours and under safe conditions. California has specific laws that allow minors to work in certain agricultural settings with parental consent and a work permit.
Types of Jobs for Young Workers in California
Now that we’ve covered the legal aspects, you may be wondering what types of jobs are available for minors in California. The good news is that there are plenty of job opportunities for young workers, especially during the summer when school is out.
Here are some common types of jobs that minors can do:
1. Retail Jobs
Retail stores often hire young workers to help with customer service, stocking shelves, and running cash registers. Many minors start their first jobs in stores like clothing shops, grocery stores, or toy stores.
2. Food Service Jobs
Restaurants and cafes frequently hire teenagers for entry-level positions like bussing tables, serving food, or working as a cashier. Fast food chains are especially known for hiring young workers.
3. Babysitting
Babysitting is a popular job for minors, especially for those 14 and older. It allows young workers to earn money while taking care of children in their neighborhood or family’s network.
4. Lifeguarding
For teens who are strong swimmers and want a summer job, lifeguarding at local pools or beaches is a great option. However, lifeguarding usually requires certification in CPR and first aid, so additional training is needed.
5. Camp Counselor
Many teens work as camp counselors during the summer, helping younger kids with activities like sports, arts and crafts, and outdoor games. This job is ideal for teens who enjoy working with children and being outdoors.
6. Tutoring
If you’re particularly strong in a subject like math, science, or English, tutoring younger students can be a rewarding and flexible job. You can tutor after school or during summer vacations, and it allows you to set your schedule.
Balancing Work and School
While working as a minor can teach valuable skills and provide some extra spending money, it’s important to remember that education should always come first. California’s labor laws are designed to ensure that young workers can balance school with their jobs.
1. Prioritize School
Even if you’re eager to start working, it’s important to remember that school is a priority. Focus on keeping up with your schoolwork, attending classes regularly, and studying for exams. A job should fit around your school schedule, not the other way around.
2. Know Your Limits
If you’re finding it hard to balance work and school, it may be time to cut back on hours. Working too many hours can lead to burnout, stress, and poor performance in school. Make sure your job isn’t interfering with your ability to focus on your education.
3. Communicate with Your Employer
Be upfront with your employer about your school schedule and any extracurricular activities you’re involved in. A good employer will understand that school comes first and will work with you to create a schedule that allows you to succeed in both areas.
Why Working as a Minor Is Beneficial
While there are restrictions on when and where minors can work, getting a job as a teenager can provide valuable life experience. Here’s why working as a minor can be beneficial:
1. Learn Responsibility
Working teaches young people responsibility and time management. Balancing a job with school and other activities helps develop important skills that will be useful throughout life.
2. Gain Work Experience
Starting a job at a young age allows teens to build work experience, which can be helpful when applying for future jobs. Even entry-level positions teach teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
3. Earn Money
For many teens, earning money from a job is a great way to learn about financial independence. Whether they’re saving for college, a car, or just extra spending money, a job helps teach the value of hard work.
Bottom Line: What Age Can You Start Working in California?
So, what age can you start working in California? You can legally start working at age 14, with restrictions on the type of jobs you can do and the number of hours you can work. California’s labor laws are designed to protect minors, ensuring they have the opportunity to gain work experience while still focusing on their education. With a work permit and the right job, young workers can start building valuable skills that will help them in the future.
FAQs
Q: What age can you start working in California?
A: In California, you can start working at age 14 with a work permit. However, younger workers may be allowed to work in entertainment or family businesses with special permits.
Q: Do minors need a work permit in California?
A: Yes, all minors under 18 are required to have a work permit in California, even during the summer or school vacations.
Q: How many hours can a minor work in California?
A: The number of hours a minor can work depends on their age and whether school is in session. For example, 14- and 15-year-olds can work up to 18 hours per week during the school year and 40 hours per week during summer vacations.
Q: What jobs can minors do in California?
A: Minors can work in various jobs, including retail, food service, babysitting, and as camp counselors or lifeguards. However, they are restricted from working in hazardous jobs.
Q: Are there exceptions to the minimum working age in California?
A: Yes, exceptions include jobs in the entertainment industry, family businesses, and certain agricultural work for minors as young as 12.
