In California, the number of hours a minor can work depends on their age and whether school is in session: For minors aged 14-15:
- When school is in session:
- Up to 3 hours per school day
- Up to 18 hours per week
- Up to 8 hours on non-school days or days before non-school days
- Work hours generally allowed between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., extended to 9 p.m. from June 1 through Labor Day
- When school is not in session:
- Up to 8 hours per day
- Up to 40 hours per week
- Work hours between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., extended to 9 p.m. in summer
- Exceptions apply for students in Work Experience Education (WEE) programs, who may work during school hours and up to 23 hours per week, and up to 8 hours on school days
For minors aged 16-17:
- When school is in session:
- Up to 4 hours per school day
- Up to 48 hours per week
- Up to 8 hours on non-school days or days before non-school days
- Work hours allowed between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m., extended to 12:30 a.m. on evenings before non-school days
- When school is not in session:
- Up to 8 hours per day
- Up to 48 hours per week
- Work hours between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m., extended to 12:30 a.m. on evenings before non-school days
For minors aged 12-13:
- May only work during school holidays and weekends
- Not allowed to work on school days
- Maximum 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week during allowed times
- Work hours between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., extended to 9 p.m. in summer
Additional Notes:
- Minors must have completed 7th grade to work during the school year
- Work permits are generally required for minors under 18
- There are restrictions on hazardous work and night shifts to protect minors' health and education
In summary, minors aged 14-15 can work up to 3 hours on school days and 18 hours per week during the school year, while minors aged 16-17 can work up to 4 hours on school days and up to 48 hours per week. On non-school days and during vacations, minors can work up to 8 hours per day and 40 to 48 hours per week depending on age
