The Wage and Hour Division prioritizes protections for young workers. We want to make sure that you understand your rights as you make your way into the work force. Your employer is responsible for providing you with a safe working environment and paying you all wages required under federal law.
Before starting your new job, learn what your employer can and cannot require of you. As a young worker, you are limited in the types of jobs and number of hours that you can work. The rules vary by age, and the requirements may be different if you work in agriculture. States may have their own set of rules that employers must follow. This site can help you find the answers about the various workplace rules for minors.
Agricultural Jobs
Do you want to work on a ranch or a farm, or do another agricultural job? Does harvesting blueberries, cutting hay, herding cattle, or being a farmhand interest you? If so, check the dos and don’ts of working in agriculture if you are under the age of 18.
- I am under 12 years old.
- I am 12 or 13 years old.
- I am 14 or 15 years old.
- I am 16 years old or older.
Non-Agricultural Jobs
Do you want to wait tables at a restaurant? Bag groceries at the local supermarket? What about a summer job working with a construction contractor? First check whether you can work at that job while you are under the age of 18.
- I am under 14 years old.
- I am 14 or 15 years old.
- I am 16 or 17 years old.
- I am 18 years old or older.