Hawaii, known for its picturesque beaches and rich cultural heritage, also has strict labor laws designed to protect young workers. If you are a teenager in the Aloha State looking for a job, understanding the legal working age, permit requirements, and job restrictions is essential.
This article explores Hawaii’s employment laws for minors, including who needs a work permit and the types of jobs that are restricted.
Legal Working Age in Hawaii
Hawaii follows federal and state labor laws regarding the employment of minors. The minimum working age in Hawaii is
14 years old, with certain exceptions for specific types of work. However, employment regulations vary depending on the worker’s age, and younger employees are subject to more restrictions to ensure their education and well-being are not compromised.
Age-Based Work Restrictions
- Children under 14: Generally prohibited from working, except in specific circumstances such as newspaper delivery, agricultural work, or roles in family-owned businesses.
- Ages 14–15: Allowed to work in non-hazardous jobs but with restrictions on hours and types of employment.
- Ages 16–17: Can work in a broader range of jobs but are still restricted from hazardous occupations.
Work Permit Requirements for Minors
Hawaii law requires minors under
18 years old to obtain a work permit before starting employment. There are two types of work permits depending on the minor’s age:
- Certificate of Employment (Ages 16-17): This certificate is required for minors aged 16 and 17 and must be obtained by the employer before hiring the minor. It verifies that the job is appropriate for the teen’s age and does not violate labor laws.
- Certificate of Age (Ages 14-15): This is necessary for minors between the ages of 14 and 15 and serves as proof that the minor is of legal working age for non-hazardous jobs.
How to Obtain a Work Permit
To obtain a work permit in Hawaii, minors must:
- Complete the necessary application form (available at the Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website or through school offices).
- Provide proof of age (such as a birth certificate or school records).
- Have the employer complete and sign the application form.
- Submit the application to the Department of Labor for approval.
Once approved, the permit allows the minor to work legally in the state.
Job Restrictions for Minors
To protect young workers, Hawaii imposes strict regulations on the types of jobs they can perform. The restrictions depend on the minor’s age and the nature of the work.
Jobs Allowed for Ages 14-15
Minors aged 14 and 15 can work in limited, non-hazardous jobs such as:
- Office and clerical work
- Retail positions (e.g., cashier, sales clerk, grocery bagger)
- Food service roles (e.g., busser, host, dishwasher)
- Lifeguard (with proper certification)
- Agricultural work (outside hazardous conditions)
Jobs Restricted for Ages 14-15
Minors under 16 cannot work in occupations deemed hazardous by state and federal laws. These include:
- Manufacturing and construction jobs
- Mining and logging work
- Operating heavy machinery
- Working with hazardous chemicals
- Roofing and excavation work
Jobs Allowed for Ages 16-17
Minors aged 16 and 17 have fewer restrictions and can work in:
- Most retail and hospitality jobs
- Food service positions, including limited cooking duties
- Office, clerical, and customer service roles
- Light construction work
Jobs Restricted for Ages 16-17
Although they have more employment opportunities, 16- and 17-year-olds are still prohibited from working in:
- Explosives and hazardous chemical handling
- Meatpacking and slaughterhouse jobs
- Operating heavy machinery and power tools
- Mining, logging, and roofing jobs
- Warehousing and truck driving
Work Hour Restrictions
Hawaii law limits the number of hours minors can work to ensure they have time for education and personal development.
Work Hours for Ages 14-15
- School days: No more than 3 hours per day and 18 hours per week.
- Non-school days: Up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week.
- Restricted hours: No work before 7 AM or after 7 PM (extended to 9 PM during summer months).
Work Hours for Ages 16-17
- School days: No limit, but cannot interfere with school attendance.
- Non-school days: Up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week.
- Restricted hours: Cannot work between 10:30 PM and 6 AM before a school day (midnight for restaurant and hotel jobs).
Consequences for Violating Child Labor Laws
Employers who violate child labor laws in Hawaii may face significant penalties, including fines and legal consequences. Parents and minors should be aware of their rights to prevent exploitation and ensure compliance with state regulations.
Conclusion
Hawaii’s labor laws aim to protect young workers while allowing them to gain valuable job experience. Understanding the legal working age, work permit requirements, and job restrictions is crucial for both minors and employers. By following these regulations, teens can enjoy a safe and rewarding work experience while preparing for their future careers.
