All employers hiring minors need a minor work permit. The tables below show the hours youth 12-17 years old can work. Minors working on their family farm are exempt from these restrictions.
Minors Under Age 16 — With slightly more flexibility than their counterparts working in non-agricultural pursuits, when school is in session minors under the age of 16 may work in agricultural jobs up to 3 hours a day on school days, up to 8 hours a day on non-school days, and up to 21 hours a week.
When school is not in session, minors under 16 may work up to 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week. Minors Age 16 and 17 — When school is in session, 16- and 17-year-olds may work up to 28 hours a week, 4 hours a day on school days, and 8 hours a day on non-school days.
Beginning June 6, 2024, a new Washington law prohibits employers from requiring employees to attend meetings which have the primary purpose of communicating the employer's opinion on “religious” or “political” matters.
While there are many laws regarding minors in Washington State, businesses should still ensure a total understanding of Washington Labor Laws, as these too will apply to minors. In Washington State, minors may begin working at the age of 14 in certain jobs and industries.
Washington child labor laws During school weeks: They are allowed to work 3 hours a day, 8 hours on the weekend, 16 hours a week, and 6 days a week. They may only work between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. During non-school weeks: They are allowed to work 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week, and 6 days a week.
If you are 13 or 14 years old, then you can work between 6am and 10pm. Once you have completed the compulsory school attendance, or at the end of the year that you turn 17, then you can work full time. If you need to find out more information, call Wageline on 1300 655 266 or the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94.
Jobs Too Hazardous for Minors Storing or manufacturing explosives. Driving or working as an outside helper on a motor vehicle. Coal mining. Mining. Logging and sawmilling occupations. Fighting or prevention of forest fires. Timber tract. Forestry service.
State or other jurisdictionMaximum daily and weekly hours and days per week for minors of age: a Under 16 Vermont 8-40-6, non-school day period. school day/week: 3-18 Virginia 8-40, non-school period. school day/week: 3-18 Washington 8-40-6 school day/week: 3 (8 Saturday and Sunday) - 16/651 more rows
In most cases, 16- and 17-year-olds may not be employed before a.m. or after p.m., but may work until p.m. on up to two consecutive nights preceding a school day.