For 14 and 15-year-olds in non-agricultural jobs, work hours are generally restricted to no later than 7:00 p.m. on any given day. However, during the summer months, specifically from June 1 through Labor Day, the evening work hours are extended to 9:00 p.m.
These regulations are set to ensure that young workers' employment does not interfere with their education or well-being. The rules differentiate between periods when school is in session and when it is not, providing specific limits on daily and weekly hours, in addition to the nighttime restrictions.
Federal Work Hour Restrictions for 14 and 15-Year-Olds
The U.S. Department of Labor establishes clear guidelines for the employment of 14 and 15-year-olds in non-agricultural occupations under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). These rules govern not only how late they can work but also how many hours they can work per day and per week. It's important to note that these are federal regulations, and individual states may have stricter laws.
Daily and Weekly Hour Limits
The number of hours a 14 or 15-year-old can work varies depending on whether school is in session:
| Condition | Maximum Daily Hours | Maximum Weekly Hours |
|---|---|---|
| When school is in session | (Not specified per day, but weekly limit applies) | 18 hours per week |
| When school is not in session | 8 hours per day | 40 hours per week |
Nighttime Work Hours
Regarding how late a 14 or 15-year-old can work, the rules are specific:
- General Rule: They are generally prohibited from working before 7:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m. on any day.
- Summer Exception: The nighttime work hours are extended to 9:00 p.m. specifically during the period from June 1 through Labor Day.
These limitations are in place to ensure young individuals have adequate time for rest, school, and other developmental activities.
Important Considerations for Young Workers
- Type of Employment: These rules primarily apply to non-agricultural jobs. Different regulations exist for agricultural employment.
- State vs. Federal Laws: If a state has stricter child labor laws than federal regulations, the law offering greater protection to the young worker will apply. Always check local and state regulations in addition to federal guidelines.
- Employer Responsibility: Employers are responsible for adhering to these child labor laws, and violations can result in penalties.
- Educational Focus: The restrictions are designed to prioritize a child's education and well-being over excessive work commitments.
For more detailed information on youth employment regulations, you can refer to resources from the U.S. Department of Labor.
