How to Get a Work Permit in Oregon

Minors wishing to work at places such as grocery stored must obtain work permits.

Oregon’s child labor laws are designed to protect minors (children under 18) from harsh working conditions, dangerous occupations, and long hours. The child labor laws do not apply to such jobs as delivering newspapers or mowing lawns at private residences. The laws typically cover most minors working for private employers. Minors must obtain a work permit prior to starting a job. Employers must keep the permits on file and present them to Oregon’s Bureau of Labor and Industries when asked.

Things You'll Need

• Birth certificate or other proof of age

Instructions

1. Contact Oregon’s Child Labor Unit by calling 971-673-0836 or writing to 800 N.E. Oregon Street, Suite 1045, Portland, OR 97232 and ask for a blank work permit. Note that some Oregon employers may have forms available.

2. Complete the form. Provide information such as your name, address, birth date, and place of birth. Bring the completed form to your employer along with proof of identification (birth certificate, passport, etc).

3. Ask your employer to fill out the back side of the permit and to send it to the Oregon Child Labor Unit. Oregon’s Child Labor Unit will review the permit and send it back to the employer who must display it visibly at the workplace.

References

• Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries: Rules Regulating the Employment of Minors
• Egov.Oregon.gov: Child Labor Law Summary