How to Get a Work Permit in the State of VA

Virginia law requires employees younger than 16 to obtain a work permit.

With a few exceptions, the state of Virginia requires that anyone younger than age 16 must obtain a work permit before they can be legally employed. These permits serve to protect minors from abusive and improper practices in the workplace, such as being overworked or paid less than the legal minimum wage. A minor under the age of 16 can obtain a work permit by completing two forms, submitting proof of age, and obtaining parental consent.

Things You'll Need

• Virginia "Intention to Employ" form
• Virginia "Permission for Employment" form
• Birth certificate or other official proof of age

Instructions

1. Determine if you are required to obtain a child work permit. According to the Virginia Department of Labor, you do not need a child permit if you will be employed on a farm, by your parents around your home, by a volunteer organization for no pay, by the state or local government, or by a neighbor or friend to work around their home.

2. Obtain the two forms Virginia requires a minor to submit in order to obtain a work permit: "Intention to Employ" and "Permission for Employment". These forms can be obtained from any local high school. If school is not in session, obtain the forms from the local school district office.

3. Complete the "Intention to Employ" form. Provide the requested information such as the name of the potential employer, the proposed wages you will be paid, how many hours a day you will work, and how many days per week you will work.

4. Fill in the "Permission for Employment" form. This form must be completed by the minor's parents. Do not sign this form until you are in the presence of a Virginia Department of Labor employee.

5. Present the two completed labor forms to the nearest Virginia Department of Labor along with any one of the following identification: a birth certificate, baptismal record, school record or passport. Have your parent sign the Permission for Employment form in front of the Virginia Department of Labor employee assisting you. As of November 2010, the State of Virginia does not charge a fee to apply for a work permit.

References

• Virginia Department of Labor and Industry: Child Work Permits Are Required