← Back to database

Georgia Minor Labor Restrictions

active

Georgia restricts the employment of minors under 16. Minors under 16 may work a maximum of 4 hours on a school day, 8 hours on a non-school day, and 40 hours per week during non-school weeks. During the school year, weekly hours are further limited. Minors under 12 are generally prohibited from working.

Jurisdiction
GA (state)
Law Type
Minor Labor
Status
active
Citation
Ga. Code § 39-2-1 et seq.
Effective Date
1999-07-01
Last Verified
2026-03-02
Record Updated
2026-03-02

Applicability

Employee Types
all
Age Groups
14-15, under-14

Requirements

Under 12
Description
Children under 12 are generally prohibited from employment in Georgia, with limited exceptions for agricultural work.
Ages 12 15
Description
Minors aged 12-15 may work with restrictions on hours and types of employment.
Max Hours School Day
4
Max Hours Nonschool Day
8
Max Hours Per Week
40
School Week Restrictions
Hours are further limited during school weeks. Minors may not work during school hours.
Under 16 General
Description
Minors under 16 may not work in hazardous occupations. They are limited to 4 hours on school days, 8 hours on non-school days, and 40 hours per week when school is not in session. Employers must maintain records of minor employees.

Penalties

Violations of Georgia's child labor laws may result in misdemeanor charges. Employers may be fined for each violation.

Notes

Georgia does not have general meal break or rest break requirements for adult employees. The state's labor laws for minors focus on hour restrictions and prohibited occupations. Georgia does not require work permits for minor employment.

Sources