The federal child labor provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 (FLSA) were enacted to ensure that when young people work, the work is safe and does not jeopardize their health, well-being, or educational opportunities. These provisions also provide limited exemptions.
Federal child labor law generally prohibits the employment of minors under the age of 14 in nonagricultural occupations, restricts the hours and types of work that can be performed by minors under 16, and prohibits the employment of minors under the age of 18 in any hazardous occupation. Different child labor law standards apply to agricultural employment.
Learn more about Youth Employment laws and resources
YouthRules
Learn how young workers can have safe and rewarding work experiences.
Young Worker Toolkit
A comprehensive toolkit to help young worker's make the most of their work experiences, and learn about their rights and responsibilities
Age Requirements by Job Type
Age requirements vary depending upon the particular age of the minor and the particular job involved.
Other Child Labor Laws in the United States
If you are under 18 years old, specific rules apply to your employment, but generally, you have the same rights as other workers.
Additional resources
Agricultural Employer’s Pocket Guide to Youth Employment (PDF)
Field Assistance Bulletin 2023-4 (PDF): Assessment of Child Labor Civil Money Penalties
Field Assistance Bulletin 2023-3 (PDF): Prohibitions against the shipment of “Hot Goods” under the Child Labor Provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act
The FLSA (PDF): Law that establishes the child labor provisions for the employment of young workers.
For the complete federal requirements in full legal detail, see Child Labor Bulletin 101 (nonagricultural) (PDF) and Child Labor Bulletin 102 (agricultural) (PDF).
Young workers have rights in the workplace, as outlined in OSHA’s videos in English and Spanish. Additional information on federal and state child labor laws is available at OSHA’s Young Workers Website.