California allows teenagers to start working at a young age, but the type of job, hours, and required paperwork depend on how old the worker is. The general rule is that a minor must be at least 14 years old to work in most regular jobs. Younger workers can only work in limited industries such as entertainment, casual jobs like babysitting, or certain family businesses. Even when a teen is legally allowed to work, California requires work permits during the school year and restricts how long minors can work each day to protect their schooling and safety. So the legal age to work is not just about how old you are—it’s also about what kind of work you do and how many hours you can work.
The Minimum Age to Work Regular Jobs
For most jobs in California, the youngest legal age is 14. At this age, teens can work in retail stores, offices, restaurants (without handling alcohol), grocery stores, and similar workplaces. They cannot work in hazardous occupations such as automotive repair using power tools, construction, mining, logging, or any job involving heavy equipment. The law is designed to allow young people to gain experience while keeping them safe from dangerous environments.
Work Permits for Minors
Anyone under 18 who wants a regular job in California must have a work permit issued by their school, even if they are homeschooled or attending a private school. The work permit requires parental approval and employer details, and must be renewed each school year. Without a permit, a business cannot legally employ a minor. During summer or official school breaks, some minors may work without a permit, but they still cannot exceed legal hour limits or work in restricted industries. Schools and labor agencies can inspect and revoke permits if a workplace violates youth labor laws.
Minimum Age Exceptions
Although 14 is the minimum for most jobs, California does allow some younger workers in specific situations. Children under 14 can work in entertainment such as acting, modeling, and music, but must obtain a special entertainment work permit. They may also work in a family-owned business as long as it is not hazardous. Informal self-employment, like casual babysitting, yard work, or tutoring, is generally allowed without a permit, though it still cannot interfere with school attendance.
Work Hours for Teen Employees
California limits how long minors can work based on their age and whether school is in session. At ages 14 and 15, students can work only a few hours on school days and cannot work late at night. Teens aged 16 and 17 can work more hours but must still follow limits to ensure school remains the priority. Night work, overtime, and shifts during school hours are mostly prohibited unless the student is officially excused. These rules apply even if parents and employers approve longer hours. The law protects academic progress and prevents exploitation.
Minimum Wage for Minors
California does not allow employers to pay teenagers a discounted wage. Minors must earn the same minimum wage as adults. As of 2025, the state minimum wage applies to all workers regardless of age, and local minimum wage rates in some cities may be even higher. Employers who try to cut wages because a worker is under 18 violate labor laws and can face penalties.
Conclusion
In California, the legal age to work in most jobs is 14, and anyone under 18 generally needs a school-issued work permit. Some jobs are allowed for younger children under strict rules, especially in entertainment or family businesses. Regardless of age, minors cannot work unlimited hours or perform hazardous tasks, and they must receive full minimum wage. California’s employment laws are designed to balance early job experience with safety and education, ensuring that teens can earn money and build skills without compromising their well-being or schooling.
