Analysis of Youth Employment Laws

Federal Law

• The Federal Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which sets standards for most workers, governs wages, hours and safety. The FLSA sets the minimum age for employment at 14. The law limits the number of hours that youth 16 and under may work and does not allow youth to work in hazardous occupations.
  
  

State Laws

• Each state has its own employment laws. Most states require youth to obtain a "work permit," issued by the youth's school or by the labor department, before getting a job. Most states limit the number of hours a youth may work and restrict nighttime employment during the school year.
  
  

Compulsory Education

• In most states, employment laws for youth are related to educational requirements. Every state requires school attendance until at least 16 years old (and older in some states) or graduation from high school. Restrictions on employment are related to this requirement.
  
  

Particular Occupations

• Federal and state laws have special provisions for youth employed by their parents, in agriculture, entertainment and door-to-door sales.
  
  

Effects

• Federal law generally takes effect over state law. State law prevails only when it offers more protection.