Idaho Child Labor Laws

Idaho encourages young workers to apply for and work in occupations providing rewarding experiences and the opportunity to learn important skill sets.  Idaho is one of ten states that does not require a work permit for minors. 

Child Labor Laws in Idaho For Minors Under 14​

Currently the Idaho Child Labor Law states that those under the age of 14 may not work in any occupation other than agriculture in order to protect their right to develop fully.  Typically, those under 14 are prohibited from work in factories, workshops, stores, restaurants, hotels, delivering goods, or messenger services.  However, minors at least 12 years old may work in these occupations during school breaks lasting at least two weeks.

Child Labor Laws in Idaho For Minors 14 and 15 Years Old

Youth in the 14 to 15 year old age group are allowed to work limited hours in several capacities.  Those specific occupations are working in agriculture, offices, grocery stores, retail, restaurants, movies theaters, amusements parks, ball parks, and gas service stations.  They are prohibited from employment in occupations considered hazardous.  See the Hazardous Occupations list below.  Additionally, no 14 or 15 year old may work in establishments that sell or serve alcohol for consumption. 

Additional specific regulations for this age group include:

When public school is in session:

  • No working during school hours
  • A maximum of three hours total on school days
  • Not earlier than 7am or later than 7pm
  • No more than 18 hours per week

When public school is not in session:

  • A maximum of eight hours per day
  • No more than 40 hours per week
  • No earlier than 7am or later than 9pm between June 1st and Labor Day

Child Labor Laws in Idaho For Minors 16 and 17 Years Old

Youth in this age group have more freedom in the occupations in which they may work, but still have certain restrictions.  The law does not prohibit specific jobs except for those considered hazardous.  See the Hazardous Occupations list below.  Additionally, 16 and 17 year olds are not allowed to work in establishments that sell or serve alcohol for consumption.

Additional specific restrictions for this age group include:

When public school is in session:

  • No working during school hours
  • Unlimited total number of hours outside of school hours
  • Beginning and ending hours are not specified

When public school is not in session:

  • No more than eight hours per day
  • A maximum of 40 hours per week

Hazardous Occupations for minors under 18 years old:

  • Mining
  • Forest Fire Fighting and Prevention
  • Manufacturing Brick, Tile, and Related Products
  • Excavation Operations
  • Wrecking, Demolition, and Shipbreaking Operations
  • Balers, Compactors, and Paper-Processing Machines
  • Power-Driven Hoisting Apparatus
  • Exposure to Radioactive Substances
  • Coal Mining
  • Driving a Motor Vehicle
  • Roofing Operations
  • Manufacturing and Storing of Explosives
  • Power-Driven Woodworking Machines
  • Power-Driven Circular Saws, Band Saws, Guillotine Shears, Chain Saws,

Reciprocating Saws, Wood Chippers, and Abrasive Cutting Discs

  • Power-Driven Metal-Forming, Punching, and Shearing Machines
  • Power-Driven Bakery Machines
  • Meat and Poultry Packing or Processing

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