Indiana Minor Labor Restrictions
activeIndiana restricts the employment of minors with specific rules for each age group. Children under 14 generally cannot work. Minors aged 14-15 may work up to 3 hours on a school day and 18 hours during a school week, and cannot work past 7 PM (9 PM June 1 through Labor Day). Minors aged 16-17 may work up to 8 hours on a school day, 30 hours during a school week (40 hours during non-school weeks), and cannot work past 10 PM on school nights.
Applicability
Requirements
- Under 14
- Description
- Children under 14 are generally prohibited from employment in Indiana, with limited exceptions for agricultural work, newspaper delivery, and entertainment with permits.
- Ages 14 15
- Description
- Minors aged 14-15 may work with significant restrictions on hours and timing.
- Max Hours School Day
- 3
- Max Hours Nonschool Day
- 8
- Max Hours School Week
- 18
- Max Hours Nonschool Week
- 40
- Evening Curfew
- 7:00 PM during school year; 9:00 PM from June 1 through Labor Day
- Morning Start
- 7:00 AM
- Work Permit Required
- Yes
- Ages 16 17
- Description
- Minors aged 16-17 may work with fewer restrictions than younger minors but still face hour and curfew limitations during the school year.
- Max Hours School Day
- 8
- Max Hours Nonschool Day
- 8
- Max Hours School Week
- 30
- Max Hours Nonschool Week
- 40
- Evening Curfew School Night
- 10:00 PM
- Work Permit Required
- Yes
Penalties
Employers who violate Indiana's child labor laws may be subject to fines. Willful violations may result in higher penalties. The Indiana Department of Labor enforces these provisions.
Notes
Indiana requires work permits (employment certificates) for all minors under 18. The state's child labor laws are more detailed than many states, with distinct rules for 14-15 and 16-17 age groups. Indiana does not have general meal break or rest break requirements for adult employees.