Florida has specific laws regulating the employment of minors to ensure their safety and protect their education. These laws outline the minimum working age, permit requirements, and job restrictions for young workers.
If you or someone you know is looking to enter the workforce as a minor, understanding these regulations is essential to staying compliant with state laws.
Minimum Working Age in Florida
In Florida, the minimum age for employment is 14 years old, with some exceptions for younger children working in entertainment, family businesses, or performing household chores. However, even at 14 and 15, minors face strict limitations on their work hours and the types of jobs they can hold.
For individuals 16 and 17 years old, work-hour restrictions are more relaxed, but certain job limitations still apply to ensure their safety.
Work Permit Requirements
Unlike some states that require work permits for minors, Florida does not issue or require them. Instead, employers must follow child labor laws and keep proof of the minor’s age on file. Acceptable documents for age verification include a birth certificate, passport, or driver’s license.
While Florida does not mandate work permits, minors may need parental consent to work in specific industries or extended hours, depending on their age group.
Work Hour Restrictions
For 14- and 15-Year-Olds:
- Cannot work during school hours.
- Can work up to 15 hours per week when school is in session.
- Cannot work more than 3 hours on a school day or 8 hours on a non-school day.
- Cannot work before 7:00 AM or after 7:00 PM during the school year (extended to 9:00 PM during summer).
For 16- and 17-Year-Olds:
- No restrictions on work hours when school is not in session.
- When school is in session, cannot work before 6:30 AM or later than 11:00 PM on school nights.
- Can work up to 30 hours per week when school is in session.
Restricted and Prohibited Jobs for Minors
Florida law prohibits minors from working in hazardous jobs that pose serious risks to their safety and well-being. Some of these restricted jobs include:
Jobs Prohibited for All Minors Under 18:
- Operating heavy machinery or power-driven tools (such as saws, forklifts, and drills).
- Working in demolition, roofing, or excavation jobs.
- Handling explosives or exposure to radioactive substances.
- Working in mines, logging operations, or slaughterhouses.
- Manufacturing or transporting hazardous materials.
Jobs Restricted for 14- and 15-Year-Olds:
- Operating motor vehicles or working as a driver/helper.
- Cooking (except with electric or gas grills with no open flames).
- Loading or unloading trucks and conveyor belts.
- Working in construction, warehouses, or manufacturing plants.
- Selling or serving alcohol.
Exceptions to Child Labor Laws
Some jobs and industries allow minors to work under different regulations. These exceptions include:
- Family-Owned Businesses: Minors may work in businesses owned by their parents, except in hazardous occupations.
- Agricultural Work: With parental consent, minors as young as 12 may work in non-hazardous agricultural jobs outside of school hours.
- Entertainment Industry: Minors of any age can work in acting, modeling, or performing arts with proper permits and parental approval.
- Apprenticeships and Student Work Programs: High school students may engage in internships or vocational training programs with school and parental approval.
Penalties for Violating Child Labor Laws
Employers who fail to comply with Florida’s child labor laws face severe penalties, including fines, lawsuits, and possible business license revocation. Violations can range from overworking minors to placing them in hazardous work conditions. Parents and minors should always verify an employer’s compliance before accepting a job offer.
Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights
Florida’s child labor laws aim to protect young workers while allowing them to gain valuable work experience. Understanding the legal working age, job restrictions, and work-hour limitations is crucial for minors, parents, and employers. Whether you’re a teenager seeking part-time employment or a business owner hiring young workers, following these regulations ensures a safe and lawful work environment.
By staying informed, young workers in Florida can safely navigate the job market and build their careers while balancing education and personal well-being.
