Work Permits

A Work Permit is required for every job obtained by a student under the age of 18. Acting as a "contract", it acknowledges that both the employee and employer will follow all youth labor laws as defined by the state. Legally, students are not authorized to work until a work permit has been completed and approved by their school district or town municipality. Students are responsible for furnishing a work permit prior to starting employment, however some employers may be proactive and ask for it as well. Once granted a work permit, it will stay with the student until they leave the job or turn legal age.

What is needed to obtain a Work Permit?

Promise of a job-you must already have secured employment, going on an interview does not need a work permit
Review the rules and regulations regarding minors in the workplace listed at the bottom of the application
Complete and Sign the Employment Permit Application, it should be filled out by the student, parent/guardian(s), and employer (can be downloaded below)
For 14 & 15 year olds, a doctor will need to sign a Physician's Certificate of Health indicating that you are in healthy condition to do the expected job
Bring the completed application along with proof of age (ex. birth certificate, passport, or immigration record) to your town's work permit administrator
Once approved, you will hand over the work permit to your employer and they will keep it in their files until no longer needed. It may be a good idea for you to keep a copy for yourself too!

Each town and city has their own system to authorizing work permits for students. Our Career Specialists are experts with this process and can help you through any of the steps listed above. Contact your school's Career Specialist or click the mascot for the area where you live to find out how you can obtain a Work Permit!

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