Minnesota Minimum Age Requirements & Child Labor Laws

Minnesota 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 Minnesota Have Age Requirements That Differ from Federal Laws?

Yes, Minnesota’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, Minnesota 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 Minnesota?

In Minnesota, 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 Minnesota?

Yes, in Minnesota, minors under 16 years of age must obtain a work permit before beginning employment. The permit must be signed by the minor’s parent or guardian and authorized by the minor’s school district. Employers are required to keep a copy of the approved permit on file at the workplace for as long as the minor is employed. Minors aged 16 and 17 do not need a work permit but must still be employed under conditions that comply with all child labor laws.

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

Yes, Minnesota 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 Minnesota?

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

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

While Minnesota’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 Minnesota?

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

• Minors Aged 14 and 15:
  • When school is in session:​
    • No more than 3 hours on any school day.
    • No more than 18 hours in any school 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 9 p.m. ​
• Minors Aged 16 and 17:
  • May not work more than 10 hours in a day.​
  • May not work more than 24 hours in a school week.​
  • May not work more than 48 hours in a non-school week.​
  • May not work before 6 a.m. or after 10:30 p.m. on nights preceding a school day.​
  • May work until 11:30 p.m. on nights not preceding a school day. ​

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

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 Minnesota?

Employers in Minnesota 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

Minnesota’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 Minnesota.