You are ready to enter the wonderful world of workmanship. Fantastic. But if you are not 18, you may need a work permit. It all depends on where you live, but luckily the process is pretty straightforward. Here we will show you how to get rid of annoying paperwork at once.
Steps
Step 1. Do some research online
Each state has different rules when it comes to obtaining a work permit. You may not even have to go around as much, some states don't even issue it. The federal government does not require such a permit; the law is at the state level.
Here you can find a list of states and their regulations. It will inform you about the age requirements and where the permits are issued
Step 2. Obtain the work permit form
You can get this at your high school (or a participating high school) or online at the website of your state's Ministry of Labor. Go to your school's main office and ask if they can help you.
Each state's form is different, too. Here you will see the example from California
Step 3. Get all the necessary information and signatures
You will definitely have to fill out part of the form on your own, but you will probably also need the information and signature of a guardian and the information of your potential employer and also their signature. Feel free to ask! This is routine for them.
- Some states will not issue you a work permit until you have an employer who wants to hire you. They may also ask for details on workload and schedule as well.
- You may also need a doctor's note and / or driver's license, depending on the case.
Step 4. Send your completed form to a public official
Many times it is a person at your school or the head of the school district. Ask your school whose signature you need to get.
- If you study at home, you could contact the person in charge of your area or call the local office of the Ministry of Labor, they may be able to guide you through the process.
- The public official should give you the work permit. It's that easy! No fee or wait. It might be as simple as photocopied paper, so don't lose it!
Step 5. Show your permission to your employer
He / She should take it and make a photocopy for their records. The original is yours to keep! Unless of course you have been issued a certificate online (some states do).
Many states have web pages for employers to check and see if a minor has a work permit. If this can help you, tell your boss! The test is just one click away
Advice
- Some cities and states require that you pass all your classes to receive a work permit.
- Gather all your documentation before you start looking for work.
- Let your potential employer fill out the appropriate parts of the application as the final step.
- If you study at home, you may need to submit your application to your state labor ministry office.
- You will likely need your parents' signature, a note from your doctor saying you are in good health to work, evidence of your age (usually a birth certificate or driver's license works fine), and in some states you need your employer write a letter saying how many hours per week you will work and what days you will work.