Work Permits

Illinois Department of Labor Work Permits

 

Child Labor Law regulates the employment of workers under 16 years of age.  The law protects children by:

Requiring employment certificates. The certificate confirms that a minor is old enough work (must be 14 years old except for models/actors), physically capable to do the job, and that the job will not interfere with the minor’s education;

Prohibiting work in hazardous occupations; and

Limiting work hours. All work before 7 A.M. and after 7 P.M. is prohibited.  However, work until 9 P.M. is allowed from June 1st through Labor Day.

 

Obtaining a Work Permit

In order to apply, you must have:

  • A letter of intent from the employer;
  • Statement from school principal to issuing officer dated within 2 weeks of application (Required by Section 12 of the Child Labor Law, 820 ILCS 205/1-22);
  • Report card from the most recent quarter (during the school year);
  • Certificate of physical fitness or physical dated within 6 months (Required by Section 12 of the Child Labor Law, 820 ILCS 205/1-22);
  • Copy of Birth Certificate; and
  • Copy of Social Security card