Oregon Minimum Age Requirements & Child Labor Laws

Oregon 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 Oregon Have Age Requirements That Differ from Federal Laws?

Yes, while federal law sets the minimum employment age at 14 for non-agricultural jobs, Oregon imposes additional restrictions on the types of work and hours that minors can perform, particularly for those under 16. ​

What is the Legal Age to Work in Oregon?

In Oregon, the minimum age for employment in non-agricultural jobs is 14. However, exceptions exist for certain roles, such as delivering newspapers, acting in entertainment productions, or working in businesses owned by their parents (excluding hazardous occupations). ​

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

Yes, employers intending to hire minors must obtain an annual Employment Certificate from the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI). This certificate verifies that the employer complies with state labor laws concerning the employment of minors. 

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

Yes, Oregon law prohibits minors under 18 from working in certain hazardous occupations, including:​

• Roofing operations
• Excavation operations​
• Operating power-driven machinery
• Working in logging or sawmill operations
• Occupations involving exposure to radioactive substances​

Additionally, minors under 16 are restricted from working in specific environments, such as:​

• Breweries, wineries, and distilleries​
• Cold storage plants
• Construction sites​
• Manufacturing areas involving power-driven machinery​

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

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

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

While Oregon’s child labor laws generally align with federal regulations, the state imposes additional requirements, such as obtaining Employment Certificates for employers and specific working hour limitations for different age groups. ​

Are There Hours of Work Requirements for Minors in Oregon?

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

• Minors Aged 14 and 15:
  • When school is in session:​
    • Cannot work during school hours.
    • May work between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
    • Limited to 3 hours per school day and 8 hours on non-school days.
    • Cannot exceed 18 hours per week.
  • When school is not in session:​
    • May work between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. (from June 1 through Labor Day).
    • Limited to 8 hours per day and up to 40 hours per week.
• Minors Aged 16 and 17:
  • May work up to 44 hours per week.
  • There are no restrictions on the time of day they may work.
  • Employers can have 16- and 17-year-olds work more than these limits if they get a special overtime permit from Oregon’s Bureau of Labor & Industries (BOLI).

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

Minors aged 14 and 15 are generally not permitted to work during school hours. Exceptions may apply for minors participating in work-experience programs or similar activities sanctioned by educational authorities. ​

What Other Requirements Are There for Employing Minors in Oregon?

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

• Breaks: Minors who work six or more hours in a single shift are entitled to a 30-minute meal break. If the minor has been relieved of all duties, this meal period can be unpaid. 
• Recordkeeping: Employers must maintain accurate records of each minor’s Employment Certificate and proof of age to demonstrate compliance with Oregon labor laws. ​

Conclusion

Oregon’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 Employment Certificates, 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 Oregon.