How to Get a Work Permit in Houston

In Houston, Texas, children must at least be 14-years-old to legally work.

In the state of Texas, a child must at least be 14 years of age to hold a job. This rule applies to all cities of Texas, including Houston. Some states require that minors obtain a work permit before legally working. However, Texas only requires that a child provide a certificate of age if the employer requests it. A certificate of age certifies that the child is over the age of 14 and stays valid until the child turns 18 years of age.

Instructions

1. Download, print out and complete a Certificate of Age from from the Texas Workforce Commission website.

2. Make a copy of an official document certifying your child's age. You may use a birth certificate, a religious document showing the date of birth, life insurance policy for the child showing the date of birth, a passport, or a school record with your sworn statement and a doctor's certificate of age.

3. Include a 1.5 inch by 1.5 inch recent head shot of your child.

4. Mail the completed application, birth document and photograph to the TWC Labor Law Section, 101 E. 15th St. Room 124T, Austin, TX 78778-0001.

References

• Texas Administrative Code: Certificate of age
• Texas Work Force Commission: Summary of the Texas Child Labor Law
• Texas Work Force Commission: Certificate of age form