Required Documents for Minor Employment in California: Permits, Identification, and Employer Responsibilities

Last Updated May 14, 2025

Minors seeking employment in California must provide a work permit issued by their school or school district confirming their eligibility to work. A completed Certificate of Age form verifying the minor's age and identity is also required to comply with state labor laws. Employers may request a Social Security card to process payroll and tax documentation accurately.

What Documents Do You Need for Employment as a Minor in California?

Number Name Description
1 Work Permit (Statement of Intent to Employ a Minor and Request for a Work Permit – Certificate of Age, Form B1-1) Minors seeking employment in California must obtain a Work Permit by submitting the Statement of Intent to Employ a Minor and Request for a Work Permit - Certificate of Age (Form B1-1), which verifies age and job suitability. This form is essential for ensuring compliance with California labor laws regulating the employment of minors and protecting their rights.
2 Proof of Age (Birth Certificate, State ID, Passport, or School Records) Minors seeking employment in California must provide proof of age, typically through a birth certificate, state ID, passport, or school records, to comply with child labor laws. These documents verify the minor's eligibility to work and ensure adherence to age-related work restrictions.
3 Social Security Card California minors seeking employment must present their Social Security Card as proof of legal authorization to work and to complete the mandatory Employment Development Department (EDD) forms; this card verifies their Social Security number, which is essential for tax reporting and wage documentation. Employers rely on the Social Security Card to comply with federal employment regulations and to ensure proper identification in payroll systems.
4 Parental/Guardian Consent Form Minors seeking employment in California must submit a Parental/Guardian Consent Form, which verifies approval from a parent or legal guardian and is essential for obtaining a work permit. This form ensures compliance with California labor laws designed to protect minor employees in various industries.
5 School Attendance Records or Report Card California minors seeking employment must provide school attendance records or a current report card as part of the necessary documentation to obtain a work permit, ensuring compliance with state child labor laws and verifying academic eligibility. These documents demonstrate that the minor meets the required school attendance standards and supports the issuance of a valid work permit for lawful employment.
6 Valid Photo Identification (Student ID, State ID, or Passport) Valid photo identification, such as a student ID, state ID, or passport, is essential for minors seeking employment in California to verify age and identity during the hiring process. Employers require these documents to comply with labor laws and ensure the minor meets legal work eligibility criteria.
7 Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9) Minors seeking employment in California must complete the Employment Eligibility Verification (Form I-9) to prove their identity and authorization to work in the United States. Employers are required to retain this form and review acceptable documents such as a Passport, Permanent Resident Card, or Social Security card combined with a driver's license to ensure compliance with federal employment laws.
8 Work Permit Application (if required by the school or district) Minors seeking employment in California must obtain a Work Permit Application if required by their school or district, which verifies parental consent and school approval for work. This permit ensures compliance with California Labor Code restrictions on minor working hours and job types.
9 Employer Offer Letter (optional, for some employers) In California, minors seeking employment typically need to provide a work permit and proof of age, while an employer offer letter, though optional, can serve as a valuable document to confirm job details and facilitate the work permit application process. This letter usually outlines the job title, hours, and wages, helping both the minor and the school district verify employment terms.
10 Medical Clearance (if required for specific jobs or by employer) Minors seeking employment in California may need to provide medical clearance documentation if required by the specific job or employer, ensuring they meet health and safety standards for the role. This medical clearance typically involves a healthcare provider's certification confirming the minor is physically fit to perform the job duties safely.

Overview of Minor Employment Regulations in California

Overview of Minor Employment Regulations in California
Work Permits Minors under 18 years must obtain a work permit issued by their school or school district before starting employment.
Age Restrictions Employment laws vary based on age: minors aged 14-17 have specific restrictions on hours and types of work allowed.
Parental Consent Some employers may require parental consent to employ minors, confirming agreement to work conditions.
Identification Documents Minors need to provide proof of age such as a birth certificate, state ID, or passport when applying for jobs.
Hours of Work California law limits the number of hours minors can work during school days, non-school days, and at night.
Prohibited Work Certain hazardous occupations are off-limits to minors under California labor laws to ensure safety.
Medical Clearance For specific jobs, minors may require a medical evaluation or clearance from a healthcare provider.
Employer Responsibilities Employers must verify documents and comply with state labor laws protecting minor employees.
Compliance Failure to submit required documents or adhere to regulations can result in penalties for both the minor and employer.

Understanding Work Permit Requirements for Minors

Minors seeking employment in California must obtain a work permit, formally known as a Certificate of Age and Employment Authorization. To apply, they need a signed application from their prospective employer, proof of age such as a birth certificate or passport, and a signed statement from a parent or guardian. This work permit ensures compliance with California labor laws, specifying allowable work hours and job types for minors under 18 years old.

Types of Work Permits for Underage Workers

California law requires specific documentation for minors seeking employment to ensure compliance with labor regulations. Understanding the types of work permits available is essential for lawful employment as an underage worker.

  • Permit to Employ and Work - This permit, issued by the school district, authorizes minors aged 14 to 17 to work during the school year and summer.
  • Minor Work Permit Application - Completed by the minor, employer, and parent or guardian, this application is necessary to obtain the official work permit.
  • Certificate of Age - This document verifies the minor's age and is often required alongside the work permit for employment eligibility.

Your employer must keep these permits on file while you are employed to comply with California labor laws.

Age Verification and Identification Documents Needed

Minors seeking employment in California must provide specific documents to verify their age and identity. These documents ensure compliance with state labor laws and protect both the employer and employee.

Acceptable age verification documents include a certified birth certificate, a valid passport, or a state-issued identification card. Employers also typically require a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or a state ID card, to confirm identity.

How to Apply for a Minor Work Permit

Minors seeking employment in California must obtain a Work Permit to comply with state labor laws. The Work Permit ensures that the work is suitable and does not interfere with the minor's education.

  1. Obtain the Application Form - Acquire the Request for Work Permit form (ExPC 2-5) from the minor's school or school district office.
  2. Complete the Form - The minor, parent or guardian, and prospective employer must fill out their respective sections on the application.
  3. Submit to School Authorities - Present the completed form to the school principal or designated official for review and signature to finalize the permit issuance.

School Involvement in Permit Approval Process

Minors seeking employment in California must obtain a work permit that requires school involvement in the approval process. The school ensures the job does not interfere with the student's education and attendance.

The school-issued work permit is a crucial document for minor employees, validating the employer's adherence to labor laws. School officials review academic progress and attendance records before granting approval. This process protects minors by balancing work and schooling commitments.

Employer Responsibilities in Hiring Minors

What documents are required for employment as a minor in California? Employers must verify a minor's age and work permit eligibility before hiring. Proper documentation includes a valid work permit and proof of identity and age.

What are the employer responsibilities when hiring minors in California? Employers must comply with state labor laws and ensure minors do not work prohibited hours or hazardous jobs. Maintaining accurate records and obtaining necessary permits is essential for compliance.

Required Recordkeeping for Employers

Employers hiring minors in California must maintain accurate records including the minor's work permit, proof of age, and signed parental consent when applicable. These documents ensure compliance with state labor laws and help validate permissible working hours and job types. Proper recordkeeping protects employers from legal penalties and supports workplace safety and fairness for minor employees.

Restrictions and Limitations on Minor Employment

Working as a minor in California requires specific documents to comply with state labor laws. These include an approved Work Permit and proof of age, such as a birth certificate or passport.

Restrictions limit the number of hours and types of jobs minors can perform, ensuring safety and education priorities. Employers must adhere to these limitations to avoid penalties and protect minor workers.

What Documents Do You Need for Employment as a Minor in California? Infographic

Required Documents for Minor Employment in California: Permits, Identification, and Employer Responsibilities


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The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios. Topics about What Documents Do You Need for Employment as a Minor in California? are subject to change from time to time.

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