Ohio Minor Labor Restrictions
activeOhio regulates the employment of minors under 18 with work permit requirements, hour restrictions, and mandatory breaks. Work permits are required for all minors under 18, with Ohio offering an online permit system. Minors aged 14-15 may work up to 3 hours on a school day and 18 hours during a school week. Minors under 16 must receive a 30-minute break for every 5 hours worked.
Applicability
Requirements
- Work Permits
- Description
- Work permits are required for all minors under 18 in Ohio. Ohio has implemented an online work permit system for efficient processing.
- Required Ages
- under 18
- Issuing Authority
- Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Industrial Compliance (online system)
- Ages 14 15
- Description
- Minors aged 14-15 may work with significant hour restrictions and a valid work permit.
- Max Hours School Day
- 3
- Max Hours Nonschool Day
- 8
- Max Hours School Week
- 18
- Max Hours Nonschool Week
- 40
- Work Permit Required
- Yes
- Under 16 Breaks
- Description
- Minors under 16 must receive a 30-minute break for every 5 hours worked.
- Meal Break Minutes
- 30
- Meal Break Trigger Hours
- 5
- Ages 16 17
- Description
- Minors aged 16-17 must have valid work permits and are prohibited from hazardous occupations.
- Work Permit Required
- Yes
- Under 14
- Description
- Children under 14 are generally prohibited from employment in Ohio, with limited exceptions.
Penalties
Employers who violate Ohio's child labor laws may be subject to fines and criminal penalties. The Ohio Department of Commerce enforces these provisions.
Notes
Ohio's online work permit system is a modern approach to child labor compliance that simplifies the process for employers and families. The 30-minute break requirement for minors under 16 provides protections beyond the federal standard.