Do I need a work permit?
A minor is an individual under the age of 18 years.
- Ages 0-13: If you are under the age of 14 years, you may not work any job unless you get a special permit to be employed as an entertainer, model, or performer.
- Age 14-17: If you are between the ages of 14 and 17 years, you must have a work permit to work any job.
Exceptions - Any minor may work the following types of jobs without a work permit. The work cannot be performed during school hours, must not involve manufacturing or mining, and must not be a hazardous occupation restricted by law.
- Farm work;
- Domestic work;
- Working for a parent’s business;
- Caddying at a golf course;
- Teaching on a sailboat;
- Delivering newspapers;
- Making an evergreen wreath in or near a home;
- Acting as a counselor or instructor at a certified youth camp; or
- Unpaid volunteer work (parent/guardian must consent in writing).
The law also lists certain jobs that minors are not allowed to do. Generally, these laws focus on hazardous or dangerous activities and materials. The Maryland Department of Labor's Minor Fact Sheet provides an overview. Learn more about youth employment safety laws.
Read the law: Md. Code, Labor and Employment §§ 3-201, 3-203, 3-205, 3-207, 3-209, 3-213
Steps to Get a Work Permit
- Get a job offer.
- Get a work permit application from your school or apply online at the Maryland Department of Labor's Employment of Minors (Work Permit) page.
- You, your parent/guardian, and your employer must sign the permit.
- Bring the permit and your proof of age (identification) to school and have it signed.
If you want to apply for a special permit to be employed as a model, performer, or entertainer, special permit applications are only available through the Baltimore office of the Division of Labor and Industry.
The Commissioner of Labor and Industry can revoke a work permit or a special permit if the permit is not issued in accordance with the Commissioner's requirements.
Remember: If you change jobs, you need a new permit!
Read the law: Md. Code, Labor and Employment § 3-206, § 3-208, § 3-215