New Jersey Minimum Age Requirements & Child Labor Laws

New Jersey enforces specific child labor laws to safeguard 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 New Jersey Have Age Requirements That Differ from Federal Laws?

Yes, New Jersey’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, New Jersey 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 New Jersey?

In New Jersey, minors aged 14 and 15 may work with certain restrictions. However, minors under 14 are generally prohibited from employment, except in specific circumstances such as agricultural work or newspaper delivery. 

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

Yes, all minors under 18 years of age must obtain an employment certificate, also known as “working papers,” before beginning employment. This certificate must be completed by the minor, the minor’s parent or guardian, and the employer. The employer is required to keep the employment certificate on file. 

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

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

• Occupations involving exposure to toxic and hazardous substances.
• Operating or assisting in operating power-driven machinery.​
• Working in establishments that serve alcohol for consumption on the premises.​

Additionally, minors under 18 are restricted from working in occupations deemed dangerous to their health or welfare, such as those involving exposure to radioactive substances or ionizing radiation. ​

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

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

Does New Jersey Have Child Labor Laws That Differ from Federal Child Labor Laws?

While New Jersey’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 employment certificates for all 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 New Jersey?

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

• Minors Aged 14 and 15:
  • During school weeks:​
    • No more than 18 hours per week.
    • No more than 3 hours per day on school days.
    • No more than 8 hours per day on Saturdays or Sundays.
    • Not before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m.
  • During non-school weeks:​
    • No more than 40 hours per week.
    • No more than 8 hours per day.
    • Not before 7 a.m. or after 9 p.m. from the last day of school to Labor Day with written permission from a parent.
• Minors Aged 16 and 17:
  • During school weeks:​
    • No more than 40 hours per week.
    • No more than 8 hours per day.
    • Not before 6 a.m. or after 11 p.m.
    • Not before 6 a.m. or after 12 midnight on Fridays, Saturdays, or days not followed by a school day.
  • During non-school weeks:​
    • No more than 50 hours per week.
    • No more than 10 hours per day.
    • Not before 6 a.m. or after 11 p.m.
    • Not before 6 a.m. or after 3 a.m. in restaurants and seasonal amusements with written permission from a parent.

What Requirements Are There for Employment During School Hours in New Jersey?

Minors under 18 years of age are generally not permitted to work during hours when public schools 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 New Jersey?

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

• Recordkeeping: Employers must keep accurate records of each minor’s employment certificate and proof of age to demonstrate compliance with New Jersey labor laws. ​
• Meal Breaks: Minors must be given a 30-minute meal break after six continuous hours of work. Breaks of less than 30 minutes do not count as an interruption of continuous work.

Conclusion

New Jersey’s child labor laws are designed to protect minors by regulating their employment conditions while allowing them to gain valuable work experience. With clear guidelines on minimum age, work permits, hour restrictions, and prohibited occupations, the state ensures that young workers are employed in safe and appropriate environments. Employers must remain compliant with both state and federal laws to provide a lawful and supportive workplace that promotes the safety, education, and well-being of minors across New Jersey.