How Many Hours Can A Minor Work?

If your teenager is eager to start a job to save money for college or simply for some extra spending cash, they’re certainly not alone. But how young is too young to work?

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) allows minors to begin working at the age of 14, although some states permit 13-year-olds to work in specific roles.

In this article, you’ll discover essential laws regarding minor employment, along with key considerations for determining how much your teenager should work.

Key Takeaways:

• 14- and 15-year-olds can work a maximum of 18 hours each school week and 3 hours on school days.

• 16- and 17-year-olds can work unrestricted hours, provided their jobs are not in hazardous industries.

• While the federal minimum wage is $7.25 an hour, workers under age 20 can legally earn as little as $4.25 during their first 90 days on the job.

• Having a job as a teenager fosters responsibility, helps save for college, and provides valuable experience for the future.

What Does the Law Say?

Labor laws vary by state, so it’s crucial to check local regulations. However, several federal laws govern minor employment, and if there’s a conflict, the more protective law prevails.

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) outlines several protections for workers under 18, including:

1. The minimum age for employment. The FLSA permits teenagers to start working at 14, with some states allowing 13-year-olds under limited conditions. Minors often need to present a certificate of age to ensure compliance with labor laws.

2. Working hours. For those aged 14-15, working hours are restricted, usually requiring parental consent. Restrictions ease at age 16.

3. Permissible job types. While minors can work, they are prohibited from hazardous occupations, including mining, meat processing, and certain manufacturing jobs. Additional restrictions apply for those under 16, barring construction work and certain cooking activities.

4. Wage requirements. The FLSA mandates minimum wage for minors, which is $7.25 federally, but can be as low as $4.25 for workers under 20 during their first 90 days. Some states have higher minimum wages, but these may not apply to minors.

Hours That Teens Can Work by Age

The FLSA specifies acceptable working hours for different age groups, but state laws may have additional stipulations. Generally, these restrictions don’t apply to minors working for their families outside hazardous industries.

Work Hours for Ages 14-15:

The FLSA aims to ensure that working minors can continue their education. Therefore, regulations for younger teens are stricter during the school year:

• During the school year:

  • Maximum of three hours of work each school day (not during school hours)
  • Maximum of 18 hours of work each school week
  • Permitted work hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. from Labor Day to May 31

• During school breaks:

  • Maximum of eight hours of work each non-school day
  • Permitted work hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. from June 1 to Labor Day

Work Hours for Ages 16 and Up:

There are no federal limits on working hours for those aged 16 and older, as long as they do not engage in hazardous occupations. However, many states have their own restrictions for 16- and 17-year-olds.

Individuals over 18 face no restrictions regarding when or where they can work, even if they are still in school.

The Pros and Cons of a Minor Working

Deciding whether your teenager should work involves weighing various factors that differ based on family dynamics, your child’s personality, and the nature of the job. Here are some pros and cons to consider:

Pros of Teenagers Working

1. Teaches responsibility and work ethic. Teenagers can demonstrate high levels of responsibility when given the chance. A job can help them learn to manage their time and commitments, valuable skills for both college and adult life.

2. Helps save for college. Earning money in high school can ease the burden of student loans, enabling students to focus more on their studies once in college.

3. Enhances college applications. Balancing work and academics can strengthen a teenager’s college application, showcasing their ability to handle a heavy workload.

4. Explores career interests. Part-time jobs can provide insights into potential career paths, helping teenagers make informed decisions about their futures.

5. Provides training for future employment. For those not pursuing college, work experience can lead to good-paying jobs post-graduation, especially in trades through apprenticeships.

6. Develops money management skills. Working helps teenagers learn to budget and manage their finances, preparing them for adulthood.

7. Fosters independence. A job can provide teenagers with a sense of independence, as they take on responsibilities and earn their own money.

Cons of Teenagers Working

1. Can detract from academics. Juggling a job alongside schoolwork can be challenging, especially for students already struggling academically.

2. May limit social opportunities. Working can restrict a teenager’s ability to participate in social and extracurricular activities, which are vital during high school.

3. Exposes them to adult situations. Even in safe jobs, teenagers may encounter real-world environments that may not always be appropriate for their age.

4. Could lead to too much freedom. Earning their own money and managing their schedule can sometimes lead teenagers to make unwise choices.

Ultimately, the decision to allow teenagers to work depends on your family’s unique circumstances. Carefully weigh the pros and cons to determine what aligns best with your child’s needs.

Balancing a Job with High School

High school life is filled with homework, extracurricular activities, and social engagements that can compete for a teenager’s time. Beyond legal regulations, the number of hours they work should also consider their existing commitments.

Students can earn money for college, but not if their grades suffer due to overcommitment. Research indicates that students working under 15-20 hours a week tend to perform as well or better academically than their non-working peers, while those working over 20 hours often see a decline in their grades and higher dropout rates.

Evaluate your teen’s current schedule and determine how many hours they can realistically dedicate to work. Assess which activities could be deprioritized if they choose to take on a job.

Finding a balance is crucial. It’s important for them to enjoy their high school experience while also being responsible. Consider your family’s and your teenager’s priorities to create a solution that works for everyone.

Final Thoughts

There are many benefits to teenagers working, including earning money for college, building responsibility, and gaining experience. However, balancing work with school and other activities can be challenging.

Remember, the government recognizes minors as children and has established numerous labor laws to protect them. Understanding these laws and the implications of your teenager working can help ensure a positive experience.

Author

Abby McCain

Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.