Child Labor Laws in California: State Rules Every Parent Should Know

California has strict child labor laws designed to protect minors while balancing work and education. If you’re a parent, employer, or teen looking for part-time work, understanding these rules is crucial. Here’s a detailed look at California’s child labor regulations in 2025.

Minimum Age for Employment in California

In most cases, the minimum age to work in California is 14, though there are exceptions for entertainment industry jobs and casual work such as babysitting, yard work, or delivering newspapers. Children under 14 generally cannot be legally employed, with few exceptions.

Work Permits Are Required

All minors under 18 (except high school graduates) must have a valid work permit issued by their school. Even homeschooled students must obtain a permit through the local school district.

Hour Restrictions for Minors

California places firm restrictions on how many hours minors can work, especially during the school year:

Ages 14-15:

• School days: Up to 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week
• Non-school days: Up to 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week
• Work hours: Between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. (Extended to 9 p.m. from June 1 to Labor Day)

Ages 16-17:

• School days: Up to 4 hours per day
• Non-school days: Up to 8 hours per day, 48 hours per week
• Work hours: Between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. (Extended to 12:30 a.m. on days preceding non-school days)

Prohibited Occupations for Minors

California law prohibits minors from working in hazardous jobs. These include:

• Operating heavy machinery
• Working with toxic chemicals
• Roofing or excavation work
• Jobs involving power-driven equipment

The California Department of Industrial Relations maintains a full list of prohibited occupations for each age group.

Read Also: California Divorce Laws: Residency, Alimony, and Custody Explained

Breaks and Meals

Minors are entitled to:

• A 30-minute meal break if working more than 5 hours
• A 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked

These rules are strictly enforced to ensure young workers are not overworked or exploited.

Special Rules for the Entertainment Industry

California has separate child labor regulations for minors in film, TV, and modeling. They include:

• Work hour limitations based on age
• Required on-set teachers
• Mandatory rest periods
• Permits from the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE)

Penalties for Violations

Employers who violate California child labor laws may face:

• Fines ranging from $500 to $10,000
• Civil lawsuits
• Revocation of business licenses

A Final Note for Parents and Teens

If your teen is eager to start working, it’s essential to understand both state and federal labor laws. The state laws in California are often stricter than federal ones, and the stricter rule always applies.

About The Author