According to the labor laws in California, minors as young as 14 years old are allowed to work, but there are specific regulations and restrictions in place depending on the age of the minor. Here is a breakdown of the age requirements for working in California:
- 14-15 years old: Minors in this age group are only allowed to work in certain industries, such as retail, food service, and agriculture. They are limited to working 3 hours per day on school days, 8 hours on non-school days, and a maximum of 18 hours per week during the school year. They are also prohibited from working during school hours.
- 16-17 years old: Minors in this age group have more flexibility in the types of jobs they can hold. They are allowed to work up to 4 hours on school days, 8 hours on non-school days, and a maximum of 48 hours per week. They are also prohibited from working during school hours.
- 18 years old and older: Once a minor turns 18, they are no longer subject to the same restrictions as younger workers and can work any job for an unlimited number of hours.
It's important to note that there are additional regulations and requirements for minors who are working, including obtaining a work permit and complying with certain safety and supervision guidelines. Employers are also required to provide a safe and healthy work environment for their underage employees.
Overall, while minors as young as 14 years old can work in California, there are strict regulations in place to ensure their safety and well-being in the workplace.