Finding a job is an important milestone in life, and the age requirements can vary depending on the state. In Washington, there are certain restrictions on the age of employees due to the presence of both federal and state regulations. Understanding what those restrictions are can help you determine if you are eligible for a particular job.

Minimum Age Requirements

In Washington, the minimum age for employment is 14. However, there are certain restrictions for workers under the age of 18. For example, those younger than 16 are not allowed to work in hazardous conditions, and those under 18 cannot work in occupations that the state classifies as hazardous.

In addition, minors must obtain a work permit before they can begin working. To obtain a work permit, the minor must be at least 14 and have written consent from a parent or guardian.

Youth Employment Standards

The state of Washington has established youth employment standards, which all employers must follow. For example, minors between the ages of 14 and 15 are only allowed to work 3 hours a day, and no more than 18 hours a week during the school year. During summer vacation, they are allowed to work 8 hours a day and no more than 40 hours a week.

Minors aged 16 and 17 can work up to 8 hours a day, and no more than 48 hours a week. They are also not allowed to work between 10 pm and 6 am, unless they have written permission from their parents or guardian.

Federal Age Requirements

In addition to state regulations, employers must also adhere to federal age requirements. The federal government has established a minimum age of 16 for most non-agricultural work. In certain occupations, the federal government has established a minimum age of 18.

These occupations include operating hazardous machinery, driving a commercial vehicle, or performing any job that involves the sale or handling of alcohol. It is important to note that state regulations can be stricter than federal regulations, so employers must always be aware of the age requirements in their state.

Conclusion

In Washington, the minimum age for employment is 14, with certain restrictions in place for workers under the age of 18. All employers in the state must adhere to the youth employment standards established by the state. Additionally, employers must also follow the federal age requirements for certain occupations. Knowing the age restrictions in your state can help you determine if you are eligible to work in Washington.