As more teenagers in Mississippi look to earn extra income, both families and employers need to understand the state’s legal guidelines for youth employment.
Mississippi has specific laws about the minimum age to work, the types of jobs minors can hold, and whether a work permit is required. These regulations are designed to protect young workers while ensuring they gain valuable experience in safe environments.
This article breaks down Mississippi’s laws around youth labor, including age restrictions, permit requirements, and prohibited job categories.
What Is the Legal Working Age in Mississippi?
In Mississippi, the minimum legal age to work is 14. However, there are exceptions for certain types of work that younger children may perform, such as:
- Working for a parent’s business (as long as it’s non-hazardous)
- Agricultural work on family-owned farms
- Household chores, babysitting, and casual yard work
Federal law also allows children under 14 to work in specific entertainment or artistic fields (with special approval), though this is less common.
Work Permits: Who Needs One?
Mississippi requires a work permit (also called an employment certificate) for minors under the age of 16. Here’s how it works:
- Ages 14–15: Must obtain a work permit before starting employment.
- Ages 16–17: Do not need a permit but are still subject to federal and state labor laws.
To get a work permit in Mississippi, the minor must:
- Be offered a job first
- Complete an application with a parent or guardian
- Get approval from the school principal or local superintendent
- Submit the application to the Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES)
Employers must keep a copy of the permit on file while the minor is employed.
Hours Restrictions for Minors
Mississippi has strict limits on when and how long minors under 16 can work. These include:
- Maximum 3 hours on a school day
- Maximum 18 hours during a school week
- Maximum 8 hours on a non-school day
- Maximum 40 hours during a non-school week
- No work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. during the school year
- During summer (June 1–Labor Day), evening hours extend to 9 p.m.
Teens aged 16 and 17 are not subject to these hour restrictions under state law, but federal rules still apply for certain jobs and work conditions.
What Jobs Are Off-Limits for Minors?
To protect their health and safety, Mississippi law prohibits minors from working in hazardous or dangerous jobs, especially for those under 18. Prohibited occupations include:
- Operating heavy machinery or motor vehicles
- Working with explosives or toxic chemicals
- Mining and logging
- Roofing and construction involving heights
- Meat processing or using power-driven slicing machines
- Serving alcohol or working in adult entertainment establishments
Some jobs, even if they seem simple, fall under these restrictions due to the potential risk involved. Employers who violate these laws can face fines and penalties.
Safe Jobs for Teens in Mississippi
Despite these restrictions, many jobs are available for minors and can help build skills and responsibility. Common safe job options for teens include:
- Retail positions (e.g., cashiers, shelf stockers)
- Food service (e.g., hosts, bussers, kitchen helpers)
- Grocery store clerks or baggers
- Lifeguards (if properly certified)
- Office or clerical work
- Lawn care and pet-sitting (non-hazardous tools only)
Minors can also explore volunteer opportunities or internships that comply with state and federal labor standards.
What Happens If a Business Violates Youth Labor Laws?
Businesses found in violation of youth employment laws in Mississippi may face:
- Fines or legal penalties
- Suspension of business licenses
- Reputational damage, especially for endangering minors
Parents should ensure that their child’s employer is following the law, and minors should report any unsafe or illegal work conditions.
Final Thoughts
While Mississippi offers young people the chance to gain real-world experience through work, the laws are in place to make sure education, safety, and health come first. For teens and their families, understanding the rules about age limits, permits, and job safety is essential.
Whether you’re a teen looking for your first job or a parent helping your child navigate the process, knowing Mississippi’s labor laws helps ensure a safe and legal path to success in the workforce.
