Maryland Minimum Age Requirements & Child Labor Laws

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

Does Maryland Have Age Requirements That Differ from Federal Laws?

Yes, Maryland’s child labor laws have specific provisions that may differ from federal regulations, particularly concerning working hours and permitted occupations for minors. While federal law sets general standards, Maryland imposes additional restrictions on the hours minors can work and the types of jobs they can perform. ​

What is the Legal Age to Work in Maryland?

In Maryland, the minimum age for employment is 14 years old. However, minors under 14 may be employed in certain situations, such as performing domestic work in private homes or working for their parents in non-hazardous occupations.

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

Yes, minors under 18 years of age must obtain a work permit before beginning employment. This permit must be signed by the minor, the minor’s parent or guardian, and the employer. The employer must keep the work permit on file for three years. 

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

Yes, Maryland law prohibits minors under 18 from working in certain hazardous occupations, including but not limited to:​

• Manufacturing and processing occupations, except for waiting on customers or performing office work in a separate room.​
• Operating or assisting in operating power-driven machinery.​
• Working in establishments that serve alcohol for consumption on the premises.​

Additionally, minors under 16 are restricted from working in amusement places, including circuses, fairs, pool halls, and bowling alleys. ​

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

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

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

While Maryland’s child labor laws generally align with federal regulations, the state imposes additional requirements, such as specific working hour limitations for different age groups and the necessity of obtaining work permits for minors under 18. These state-specific provisions are designed to provide further protection to young workers. 

Are There Hours of Work Requirements for Minors in Maryland?

Yes, Maryland has specific regulations governing the working hours of minors:​

• Minors Aged 14 and 15:
  • When school is in session:​
    • No more than 4 hours on any day.
    • No more than 23 hours in any week.
  • When school is not in session:​
    • No more than 8 hours on any day.
    • No more than 40 hours in a week.
  • May not work before 7 a.m. or after 8 p.m., except from Memorial Day to Labor Day when they may work until 9 p.m. ​
• Minors Aged 16 and 17:
  • May spend no more than 12 hours in a combination of school hours and work hours each day.​
  • Must be allowed at least 8 consecutive hours of non-work, non-school time in each 24-hour period.​
  • May not be permitted to work more than 5 consecutive hours without a non-working period of at least 30 minutes. 

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

Minors under 17 years of age may not be employed during the hours that public schools of the county or city in which the minor resides are in session. Exceptions include minors who have been excused from attendance by school officials, students in alternative education plans that include work experience, or students in approved vocational cooperative education programs. 

What Other Requirements Are There for Employing Minors in Maryland?

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

• Recordkeeping: Employers must keep accurate payroll records for workers under 18, showing the time the minor began work, total hours worked, and the time the minor finished work each day. 
• Prohibited Occupations: Minors under 18 are prohibited from working in certain hazardous occupations as defined by state and federal regulations. ​

Conclusion

Maryland’s child labor laws are designed to protect minors by regulating their employment conditions. With specific working hour limitations, restrictions on hazardous occupations, and requirements for work permits, these laws help ensure that minors are employed in safe, age-appropriate roles. Employers must comply with both state and federal regulations to foster lawful and supportive work environments that promote the well-being and educational development of young workers in Maryland.