COLUMBUS, Ohio - With many students set to return to the classroom later this month, some Ohio teens may be considering keeping their summer job to earn extra income during the school year. To help ensure students and families understand employment-related rules and hour restrictions during the academic year, which are different than during the summer, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Industrial Compliance's Bureau of Wage and Hour is highlighting who must first obtain a Minor Work Permit - and how they can get them.

Youth aged 14, 15, 16 and 17 are required to have a Minor Work Permit before they begin working, either during the summer or school year. Teens must secure a job offer first before applying for a permit because the permit application requires details about the specific job and its duties. If a teen has already acquired a Minor Work Permit for employment during the summer, they do not need to go through the process a second time if they plan on keeping that job during the academic year.

One of the main differences between working during the summer than during the academic year is the hours teens can work. During the school year, Ohio law says teens aged 14 and 15 can work up to 18 hours a week, but must conclude their shifts by 7 p.m. on school nights. This is unlike the summer when those teens are able to work 40 hours a week and stay on the job until 9 p.m.

Meanwhile, older teens aged 16 and 17 are able to work up to 40 hours a week during the school year, but they must conclude their work by 11 p.m. on school nights. They do not have any hour restrictions on non-school nights.

"The work permit process is designed to ensure Ohio's young workers have safe and supportive employment experiences. We are committed to helping families navigate each step, so teens can start their jobs confidently and parents can feel assured that state safeguards are in place," said Stephen Clegg, Wage & Hour Administration Bureau Chief.

How to Acquire a Minor Work Permit: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Find a Job
   Begin by searching for employment and secure an offer from an employer willing to hire a minor.
2. Download the Application
   Visit com.ohio.gov/MinorWorkPermit to download the official Minor Work Permit form.
3. Complete and Sign the Form
   Take time to fill out the application completely with all required details. Once completed, get a parent or guardian's signature. Make sure to have the employer complete their section as well.
4. Submit Form to Your School District
   Turn in the completed application to the school district where the student lives for review and approval.
5. Start Working
   Once the permit is approved, the student is officially cleared to start the job.

Ohio law ensures that all minors under the age of 18 receive a 30-minute break after every five hours of consecutive work, regardless of age or season. This regulation promotes their well-being throughout the year. To avoid delays when job opportunities arise, teens and their parents or guardians are encouraged to gather the necessary documents as early as possible.

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About the Division of Industrial Compliance
The Division of Industrial Compliance is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.