How to Obtain a Work Permit for California

Paperwork for Work Permit

Work permits were designed to help regulate the child labor laws to protect minors, and each state has its own specific rules. In the state of California, anyone between the ages of 14 and 18 is required to obtain a work permit unless he or she has already graduated high school or earned their GED. Minors may work no more than eight hours a day and may not drive a vehicle as part of their job duties. To maintain a valid work permit, minors must also meet school academic standards.

Instructions

Overall Process

1. Obtain a form called the "Statement of Intent to Employ Minor and Request for Work Permit" from your school.

2. Complete the top section of the form, ask your prospective employer complete the employer sections, and have a parent or guardian complete the third section.

3. Return the completed and signed formed to school and officials will issue a work permit.

Tips & Warnings

• It's best to get a job before applying for a work permit, as the employer needs to agree to hire you before the permit is approved.

• Certain jobs do not require a work permit, such as babysitting, working for the family, self employment, yard work, or newspaper delivery.

• If working in the entertainment industry, work permits are issued by the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement; this may constitute additional requirements.

References

• Information on Minors and Employment
• California Child Labor Laws
• Work Permits

Resources

• California: Young Workers Program