Idaho Meal and Rest Break Laws

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), providing meal and rest breaks is not a requirement. Find out whether Idaho has different legislation in place.

Do Idaho Break Laws Differ from Federal Break Laws?

No, Idaho defers to federal law regarding the provision of meal and rest breaks to employees.

Idaho Meal Break Laws

No Idaho law requires employers to offer meal and/or rest breaks. If an employer chooses to provide breaks to employees, they must align with the federal requirements:

• Breaks may be unpaid if they last 30+ minutes and relieve the employee of all duties.
• Breaks lasting less than 20 minutes must be paid

Idaho Break Laws for Minors

There are no laws in place mandating the provision of breaks to minor employees.

Idaho Break Laws for Mothers

All breastfeeding employees maintain protection under the federal PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act. This entitles them to reasonable break time to pump at work, as well as a private space (that is not a toilet stall) to do so.

Idaho Day of Rest Laws

Idaho has no day of rest law in effect.

Idaho Break Room Requirements

No law requires Idaho employers to provide a break room.

Idaho Penalties for Breaking Rest and Break Laws

Federal penalties may apply for failing to adhere to the requirements outlined in the FLSA. These may include a fine of up to $10,000 and criminal prosecution.

Common Idaho Break Law FAQs

How early can I take my lunch break in Idaho?

Meal breaks for adult employees are given at the employer’s discretion.

How many breaks in a 6-hour shift in Idaho?

There is no requirement to provide breaks during a 6-hour shift.

How many breaks in an 8-hour shift in Idaho?

There is no requirement to provide breaks during an 8-hour shift.

How many breaks in a 12-hour shift in Idaho?

There is no requirement to provide breaks during a 12-hour shift.

Is it legal to work 7 days straight in Idaho?

Yes, since no day of rest law is in place, employees are permitted to work 7 consecutive days.

Can I waive my lunch break in Idaho?

Since there is no legal requirement to provide a lunch break, employers may choose not to offer them to employees. Company policy would dictate whether an employee can waive a provided meal break.

Idaho Department of Labor