Published by In 2023, nearly 2.11 million young workers aged 16 to 24 were employed in California, representing 12% of the state’s workforce.
Despite their significant presence in the labor market, these young employees face unique challenges, with 64% earning low wages and many struggling to balance work responsibilities with educational commitments.
California’s child labor laws aim to protect these young workers while allowing them to gain meaningful work experience. For parents and employers, understanding these laws is crucial to ensuring compliance and fostering safe, equitable opportunities for youth employment.
This article provides an overview of key regulations, responsibilities, and the importance of safeguarding young workers’ rights, helping to pave the way for a successful early career journey.
Table Of Contents
- Brief Overview of Child Labor Laws in California
- Where Teens Work and How California Protects Them
- Does a Minor Need a Permit to Work in California?
- What is the Minimum Wage for a Child in California?
- Can a Minor Work Overtime in California?
- California’s Guide to Teen Employment: Rights, Rules, and Opportunities
- Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Brief Overview of Child Labor Laws in California
According to Resourceful Compliance, California implemented the Omnibus Child Labor Reform Act (AB 1900) in January 1985, ushering in significant updates to regulations governing minor employment.
This legislation applies to both citizens and non-citizens who are minors and have not completed high school or obtained an equivalency certificate [1].
One notable change was that minors under 12 were barred from employment or even accompanying parents to workplaces considered hazardous to those under age 16. Specific work types considered hazardous are restricted and banned to minors based on age as well.
For industries and positions deemed suitable for minor employees, obtaining a work permit from the employer before commencing work is mandatory. These permits must be renewed annually to ensure compliance.
Weekly hour restrictions and allowances for work during school sessions vary according to the minor’s age. Generally, minors aged 14 to 17 are permitted to work while school is in session, albeit with limited hours. However, those aged 12 and 13 are prohibited from working during school sessions.
Minors in California are entitled to receive compensation in accordance with standard minimum wage and overtime regulations. Additionally, minors who have graduated high school or obtained an equivalent certificate, as well as those working certain late-night shifts, must be compensated at adult rates.
Moreover, covered minors are entitled to receive overtime pay at one and a half times their regular rate for all hours worked on a sixth consecutive workday.
Where Teens Work and How California Protects Them
Teenagers in California often work in industries that offer entry-level positions, skill-building opportunities, and income to support their goals.
The state has implemented strict child labor laws to ensure a safe and fair working environment for young workers. Here’s an overview of common industries, required documentation, labor protections, and prohibited occupations for teens in California.
Popular Industries for Teen Employment
- Retail
Teens frequently work in retail as cashiers, stockers, or customer service representatives. Retail jobs are a popular choice because they offer flexible hours that fit school schedules. - Food Service
Restaurants and fast-food establishments hire teens as cashiers, servers, and kitchen staff. These jobs help teens develop teamwork and customer service skills. - Entertainment
Many young people work as actors, models, or performers in California’s entertainment industry. Special protections are in place to safeguard minors working in this sector. - Tutoring and Childcare
Teens often find work as tutors or babysitters, gaining responsibility while helping families in their communities. - Agriculture
In rural areas, seasonal farm work provides employment opportunities for teens during harvest periods.
School-Based Work Programs
California schools offer programs that allow teens to gain work experience while earning credits:
- Internships: Provide career-specific training and networking opportunities.
- Job Shadowing: Helps teens observe professionals in their desired fields.
- Cooperative Education: Combines classroom learning with on-the-job experience to bridge education and employment.
Required Documentation for Teen Workers
Before teens can start working, they need:
- Work Permits: Issued by schools, verifying eligibility to work.
- Proof of Age: Such as a birth certificate or official ID.
- Social Security Number: For tax and employment verification.
- Parental Consent: Required for minors under 18 when applying for a work permit.
Break Requirements for Teen Workers
California law ensures that teen workers have adequate rest and meal breaks:
- Rest Breaks: A 10-minute paid break for every 4 hours worked.
- Meal Breaks: A 30-minute unpaid meal break if they work over 5 hours in a day.
Prohibited Occupations for Minors
Certain jobs are off-limits for minors due to safety risks or legal restrictions:
- Hazardous Jobs
Roles involving heavy machinery, construction sites, or dangerous chemicals are prohibited. - Entertainment Restrictions
While minors can work as performers, they cannot take on roles with unsafe stunts or mature themes without strict oversight. - Tobacco and Alcohol Sales
Selling tobacco or alcoholic beverages is strictly prohibited for minors.
By understanding where teens commonly work, the documentation they need, and the rules governing their employment, parents and employers can create a supportive environment for the next generation of workers.
To bridge the gap between traditional youth employment and the unique challenges faced by young performers, California’s labor laws extend comprehensive protections to minors in the entertainment industry.
This ensures that budding actors, models, and influencers can thrive in a safe, regulated environment while pursuing their careers.
Safeguarding Young Talent: California’s Entertainment Industry Rules for Minors
California’s entertainment industry is home to countless young performers, and the state has established specific laws to ensure their safety, welfare, and financial security.
These rules protect minors working as actors, models, and influencers, while also addressing modern trends like social media content creation. Below are key regulations with real-life scenarios showcasing their importance.
1. Mandatory Entertainment Work Permits
Minors aged 14 to 17 must secure an Entertainment Work Permit to legally work in the industry. This permit ensures their educational needs are prioritized alongside work commitments.
Scenario:
A 15-year-old cast in a TV show provides proof of school attendance and obtains parental consent to receive a work permit. This allows them to fulfill their role while keeping their education on track.
2. Parental Supervision on Set
For minors under 16, California requires a parent or guardian to be present during work hours to ensure their safety and emotional well-being.
Scenario:
A 12-year-old actor filming a commercial benefits from having their mother on set. Her presence provides reassurance and ensures her child is comfortable throughout the shoot.
3. Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
Minors in entertainment must complete sexual harassment prevention training to learn about their rights and how to handle inappropriate situations.
Scenario:
A 17-year-old actress preparing for a film role attends a required training session. This equips her with the knowledge to recognize and address any form of harassment on set.
4. Financial Security Through the Coogan Law
Under the Coogan Law, 15% of a child performer’s earnings must be deposited into a trust account accessible only when they turn 18, protecting their financial future.
Scenario:
A young actor earning $100,000 for a film role has $15,000 placed in a Coogan Trust account, ensuring they have a portion of their earnings preserved for adulthood.
5. Child Content Creator Rights Act
With the rise of digital influencers, California now requires parents of child content creators to set aside 65% of their earnings in a trust. This safeguards minors from financial exploitation in the growing online content industry.
Scenario:
A family vlogger featuring their child prominently in monetized videos sets up a trust for 65% of the child’s earnings, ensuring the funds are secured for the child’s future.
Why These Laws Matter
California’s entertainment industry regulations are designed to adapt to the evolving landscape, including the growing role of digital media.
These protections ensure minors can pursue their careers safely, without compromising their education or financial security. By implementing these safeguards, California continues to prioritize the well-being of its youngest stars while fostering a fair and ethical work environment.
Legal Framework: Safeguarding Youth Employment and Fair Wages in California
California’s regulations for child labor and minimum wage are outlined in several key sections of the California Education Code and Labor Code.
These laws ensure young workers are protected, fairly compensated, and able to balance work with education.
Below are some notable provisions:
- California Education Code §49162: Specifies the requirements for minors to obtain work permits, ensuring their employment aligns with educational priorities.
- California Labor Code §1391: Defines the wage regulations for minors, including special provisions for learners and student workers.
- California Labor Code §1171: Establishes the state’s minimum wage requirements, applicable to all employees, including young workers.
These legal measures emphasize California’s commitment to fostering equitable opportunities for minors in the workforce. By prioritizing fair wages and creating pathways for skill development, the state ensures that young workers can gain valuable experience while safeguarding their educational and personal growth.
Does a Minor Need a Permit to Work in California?
According to Department of Labor, to work in California, employees and employers must fill out and submit a permit form issued by the California Department of Education entitled “Statement of Intent to Employ Minor and Request for Work Permit [2].
These forms, aligned with the state’s work permit regulations, can be acquired from and submitted to authorized individuals designated to issue permits for employment.
Before submitting the notification of intent to employ and work, it is imperative that the form is signed by the parent or legal guardian of the youth whom the employer intends to hire. This process ensures compliance with CA Education Code 49162.
What is the Minimum Wage for a Child in California?
In California, as of January 1, 2025, the minimum wage for all employees, including minors under 18 who are not attending school or fall under any exemptions, is $16.50 per hour. This rate applies uniformly across organizations, regardless of size, reflecting the state’s commitment to fair compensation for all workers.
Employers hiring full-time college or high school students have the option to pay a reduced minimum wage of $11.05 per hour, equivalent to 85% of the state minimum wage.
Similarly, learners entering occupations without prior experience may receive 85% of the minimum wage during their first 160 consecutive days of employment. These provisions aim to balance fair pay with opportunities for students and inexperienced workers to gain valuable skills while pursuing their education.
These updates highlight California’s efforts to support equitable wages while accommodating the unique needs of young workers and learners in the workforce.
The following table provides a detailed breakdown of California’s minimum wage rates for different employee categories, including variations based on company size and age-specific provisions:
| Employee Category | Minimum Wage |
|---|---|
| General Minimum Wage (All Employees) | $16.50 per hour |
| Small Employers (Fewer than 25 Employees) | $16.50 per hour |
| Large Employers (26 or more Employees) | $16.50 per hour |
| Child Workers (Under 18, Not in School) | $13.00 per hour (Small Employers), $14.00 per hour (Large Employers) |
| Full-Time College/High School Students | $11.05 per hour (85% of state minimum wage) |
| Learners (14–17 years old, first 160 days) | $11.05 per hour (85% of state minimum wage) |
Special Wage Categories
- Fast Food Workers: Employees at fast food chains with 60 or more locations nationwide are entitled to a higher minimum wage of $20 per hour.
- Healthcare Workers: Wages for healthcare facility employees range from $18 to $24 per hour, depending on the facility type and role.
- Local Variations: Many California cities and counties have higher minimum wages than the state baseline due to local ordinances. For instance, minimum wages in San Francisco and Los Angeles exceed the state minimum.
Additional Considerations
For child workers under 18 who are not attending school or fall under exemptions, the minimum wage aligns with adult rates.
Employers with fewer than 25 employees must pay a minimum of $13 per hour, while those with 26 or more employees must pay $14 per hour.
Additionally, provisions for students and learners are designed to balance fair compensation with educational pursuits:
- Student Workers: Full-time high school and college students employed by certain organizations can earn 85% of the state minimum wage, currently set at $11.05 per hour.
- Learners: Individuals with no prior experience in a particular occupation may also earn $11.05 per hour during their first consecutive 160 days of employment.
This structured approach ensures compliance with California labor laws while addressing the unique needs of young workers, students, and specialized industries.
Can a Minor Work Overtime in California?
According to the Department of Industrial Relations, in California, the standard overtime regulations stipulate that nonexempt employees who are 18 years or older, as well as minor employees aged 16 or 17 who are not obligated by law to attend school or prohibited by law from working, must not be employed for more than eight hours in any given workday or exceed 40 hours in a workweek [3].
If they do work beyond these limits, they are entitled to receive one and a half times their regular rate of pay for the additional hours worked over eight in a day or over 40 in a week.
Additionally, working beyond eight hours in a day or more than six consecutive days in a week mandates compensation for overtime, calculated as follows:
- One and a half times the employee’s regular rate of pay for hours worked beyond eight up to and including 12 hours in a single workday, as well as for the first eight hours worked on the seventh consecutive day of the workweek.
- Double the employee’s regular rate of pay for hours worked beyond 12 in a single workday and for all hours worked beyond eight on the seventh consecutive day of the workweek. These regulations ensure fair compensation for extended work hours, promoting employee welfare and adherence to labor standards.
California’s Guide to Teen Employment: Rights, Rules, and Opportunities
California’s child labor laws prioritize the safety and well-being of minors in the workforce while ensuring they gain meaningful work experience. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or teenager entering the job market, understanding these laws is essential.
This article highlights the rights of young workers, the industries they can explore, documentation requirements, and rules to protect them from unsafe conditions.
Protecting Young Workers: Rights and Responsibilities
Rights Every Teen Worker Should Know
- Safe Workplaces: Employers must maintain safe environments free from hazards to protect teen workers.
- Fair Pay: Teens are entitled to the state’s minimum wage, regardless of job type or industry.
- Work Permits: Minors under 18 must obtain a work permit to ensure their employment doesn’t interfere with education.
- Breaks and Meal Periods: Young workers are guaranteed rest and meal breaks during their shifts.
Responsibilities for Teens on the Job
- Securing Proper Documentation: Teens must provide a valid work permit, proof of age, and a Social Security number.
- Following Work Hour Limits: Minors must adhere to hour restrictions, especially during school days, to prioritize education.
- Reporting Concerns: Unsafe conditions or harassment should be reported to a trusted adult or proper authorities.
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References:
1. https://www.resourcefulcompliance.com/california
2. https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/CASMATEO/2023/10/11/
3. https://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/faq_overtime.htm