Illinois Minimum Age Requirements & Child Labor Laws

Illinois has established specific child labor laws to protect minors in the workforce, ensuring their employment does not interfere with their education or well-being. These laws include age restrictions, work permits, and limitations on working hours and occupations.​

Does Illinois Have Age Requirements That Differ from Federal Laws?

Yes, Illinois imposes additional requirements beyond federal regulations, particularly concerning work permits and specific working hour restrictions for minors under 16. 

What is the Legal Age to Work in Illinois?

In Illinois, minors aged 14 and 15 are permitted to work under certain conditions. Employment is prohibited for individuals under 14, except for specific exemptions such as working in a parent’s business (excluding hazardous occupations), performing in entertainment, or delivering newspapers. ​

Are There Any Requirements or Permits for Employers to Hire Minors in Illinois?

Yes, minors aged 14 and 15 must obtain an Employment Certificate, commonly known as a work permit, before starting employment. This certificate verifies that the minor is of legal working age, physically capable of performing the job, and that the employment will not interfere with their education. These permits are typically issued by the minor’s local high school or school administration office. 

Are There Any Industries or Occupations That Have Different Minimum Age Requirements in Illinois?

Yes, Illinois law prohibits minors under 16 from working in hazardous occupations, including:​

• Manufacturing or storing explosives​
• Driving motor vehicles or serving as helpers on vehicles​
• Coal mining​
• Logging and sawmilling
• Operating power-driven woodworking machines
• Exposure to radioactive substances​
• Operating power-driven hoisting apparatus​
• Operating power-driven metal-forming, punching, and shearing machines​
• Slaughtering, meatpacking, processing, or rendering​
• Operating power-driven bakery machines​
• Operating power-driven paper-products machines​
• Manufacturing brick, tile, and related products
• Operating power-driven circular saws, band saws, and guillotine shears​
• Wrecking, demolition, and shipbuilding operations​
• Roofing operations and work on or about a roof​
• Excavation operations​

These restrictions align with federal hazardous occupation orders.

Are There Different Age Requirements for Employment in Cities or Municipalities Across Illinois?

No, Illinois’ child labor laws are enforced uniformly across the state, with no variations in minimum age requirements between different cities or municipalities.​

Does Illinois Have Child Labor Laws That Differ from Federal Child Labor Laws?

While Illinois’ child labor laws generally align with federal regulations, the state imposes additional requirements, such as mandatory work permits for minors under 16 and specific working hour limitations. ​

Are There Hours of Work Requirements for Minors in Illinois?

Yes, Illinois has specific regulations governing the working hours of minors aged 14 and 15:​

• When School is in Session:
  • Maximum of 3 hours per day on school days​
  • Maximum of 24 hours per week
  • Not before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m.​
• When School is Not in Session:
  • Maximum of 8 hours per day​
  • Maximum of 48 hours per week
  • Not before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m. (from June 1 through Labor Day)

What Requirements Are There for Employment During School Hours in Illinois?

Minors under 16 are generally prohibited from working during school hours unless they have completed high school or have been excused from attendance by the appropriate school authority.

What Other Requirements Are There for Employing Minors in Illinois?

Employers in Illinois must adhere to additional requirements when employing minors:​

• Supervision: All minors must be supervised in person by an adult aged 21 or older at all times when the minor is working.
• Meal Breaks: A 30-minute meal break must be provided for minors who work more than 5 hours continuously. 
• Recordkeeping: Employers must maintain records of each minor employee’s employment certificate and proof of age. ​

Conclusion

Illinois’ child labor laws are designed to protect minors by regulating their employment conditions. With mandatory work permits, restrictions on hazardous occupations, and limitations on working hours, these laws ensure that employment does not interfere with a minor’s education or well-being. Employers must comply with both state and federal regulations to maintain lawful and safe work environments for young workers.