Starting Work Early: What Parents and Teens Should Know
For many teens, getting that first job feels like a major step. It’s a chance to earn money, build discipline, and start learning how workplaces function. But before a teenager can legally be hired, one question comes up time and again: What is the youngest age to get a job? That answer depends on where the teen lives and what kind of work they’re aiming to do. In answering the question what is the youngest age to get a job, Nakase Law Firm Inc. provides legal insights on federal and California labor laws that influence youth employment opportunities.
What the Federal Law Says About Young Workers
The federal government sets rules through the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). According to this law, children must be at least 14 years old to work most jobs. Still, there are some roles that kids under 14 are allowed to take. They include delivering newspapers, babysitting, acting in film or theater, and working in a family-owned business—so long as it’s not dangerous. Nakase Law Firm Inc. helps families navigate these layers of regulation, particularly when understanding how the California Fair Chance Act interacts with broader employment rights and protections for both adults and teens.
Children who are 14 or 15 face restrictions on when and how long they can work. Here are the basic limits:
- No more than 3 hours on school days
- A weekly limit of 18 hours during school weeks
- Up to 8 hours on non-school days
- A maximum of 40 hours during school breaks
- Only between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., except from June 1 through Labor Day, when they may work until 9 p.m.
California’s Rules Go a Bit Further
California law adds more restrictions on top of federal guidelines. While most kids can’t legally work until age 14, there are some specific situations where 12- and 13-year-olds may be allowed to do certain types of work—with permits and under strict conditions.
Jobs That Are Allowed for Kids Under 14
Even though most jobs are off-limits for younger children, a few types are still permitted. For example:
- Entertainment work in movies, television, or theater with special permission
- Light duties in a parent-run business (not involving machinery or manufacturing)
- Agricultural work under regulated conditions, often with written parental approval
- Self-created jobs such as babysitting, lawn care, dog walking, and selling handmade goods
These types of work are usually more flexible and informal, and they allow kids to get their feet wet in the world of earning without legal issues.
Work Permits and Why They’re Necessary
In most states, including California, teens need to get a work permit before they can begin a job. Schools usually issue these permits, and they do so only if the student maintains regular attendance and acceptable academic performance.
The process is fairly simple:
- The teen gets a job offer.
- The employer fills out part of the permit request.
- The school reviews and approves the permit.
This process helps ensure that working doesn’t interfere with school and that the job is suitable for the student’s age.
Common Jobs for Teens Aged 14 to 17
As teens get older, more job options become available. Many 14- to 17-year-olds take on roles like:
- Cashier or retail assistant
- Fast food worker
- Grocery bagger or shelf stocker
- Lifeguard with the proper certificate
- Camp counselor during summer
- Tutor for younger students
- Busser or host in a restaurant
These jobs offer real-world experience but still fall within the limits of what minors are legally allowed to do.
Jobs That Are Not Allowed for Minors
Some jobs are simply too risky for anyone under 18. These include:
- Driving vehicles as part of the job
- Using large or industrial equipment
- Working with explosives or chemicals
- Roofing or demolition work
- Logging or mining
These types of work are completely off-limits to minors for safety reasons, and no exceptions are made until a person reaches legal adulthood.
Summer Jobs Versus Year-Round Work
When school lets out, many teens want to work more hours. In these cases, the rules ease up slightly, but not by much. For example, federal law allows 14- and 15-year-olds to work up to 40 hours a week during summer break, compared to the much stricter limits during the school year.
That said, teens still need to make sure they’re not pushing themselves too hard. Summer jobs should be manageable, and family support plays an important role in maintaining balance.
The Line Between Volunteering and Working
Some teens might want to volunteer rather than take a paid job. That can be a good way to build experience, especially in hospitals, libraries, or community centers. But businesses can’t treat volunteers like free labor for jobs that would normally be paid.
Organizations must follow fair use rules when working with teen volunteers. If a job is considered necessary to operations or replaces paid staff, it’s not appropriate to classify it as volunteer work.
Online Jobs Are Gaining Popularity Among Teens
The digital world has opened up new paths for teens to earn money on their own schedule. Some of the popular choices include:
- Creating videos for YouTube or other platforms
- Selling art, crafts, or clothing online
- Tutoring students using virtual tools
- Offering freelance writing or digital services
- Sharing gaming tips and walkthroughs
These roles are often less formal but can be rewarding and creative. Still, parents should keep an eye on screen time, earnings, and tax rules. Even small amounts of income may need to be reported.
Parental Guidance Matters More Than Ever
Parents play a big part in making sure their teen’s first job is a good one. This includes:
- Reviewing job details before giving permission
- Monitoring how many hours are worked each week
- Making sure the job doesn’t get in the way of school or sleep
- Teaching kids how to manage money and work expectations
The first job can be a strong stepping stone, but the support from home is what truly makes it work.
What Happens When Employers Break the Law
Employers that ignore labor rules and hire underage workers improperly may face serious consequences. This includes:
- Large fines per violation
- Lawsuits filed by families or regulatory agencies
- Losing business licenses
Both the U.S. Department of Labor and California’s Division of Labor Standards Enforcement are responsible for handling these cases.
Age Groups and What They Can Legally Do
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Under 14: Very limited roles, mostly in entertainment or with family
- 14–15: Non-hazardous part-time work, limited hours and duties
- 16–17: More freedom in hours and job types, but still no high-risk work
- 18 and up: Legal adulthood in employment, no restrictions based on age
Each group comes with its own set of permissions and boundaries. Following them ensures both safety and legality.
Final Thoughts
Getting a job at a young age can help teens build useful habits, understand money, and grow more independent. But rules are in place to protect their health, time, and learning. Parents, schools, and employers all have a part to play.
Before teens jump into the workforce, families should research their local laws and consult with professionals like those at Nakase Law Firm Inc., who can provide clarity on employment regulations and ensure full legal compliance for both parents and employers.
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