The United States has strict laws against hiring minors. These laws exist because they believe children don’t have the maturity or life experience necessary to handle certain jobs.
However, these laws aren’t always enforced. Some states allow kids as young as 14 to work in retail stores, restaurants, and other businesses where safety isn’t an issue.
There are a lot of things that go into getting a job, but age isn’t one of them. Even if you’re not old enough to work legally, there are plenty of ways to get your foot in the door.
You need to be willing to put in the effort and learn what employers are looking for. Here are some tips on how to get a job at age 14.
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What types of jobs may 14-year-olds perform?
A lot, it turns out. A recent survey found that teens can work in many different areas, including retail, food services, and construction. They can even work part-time while still attending school full-time.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 2.2 million teenagers are working in the United States, and the number continues to rise. The BLS predicts that the teen labor force could grow by 23% over the next decade.
14-year-olds’ working hours
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), passed in 1938, covers most employees under 18. However, there are some exceptions. Children aged 14 and 15 must follow different rules regarding their working hours. These rules apply to both state and federal labor regulations.
Under state law, children 14 and 15 cannot legally work more than eight hours per school week and 40 hours per month. In addition, they must receive one rest period each day. Under federal law, however, children 14 and 15 do not have to adhere to the same limits. They can work up to 60 hours per week without receiving overtime pay. This applies even if they work more than 10 hours per day. If a child works more than 10 hours per weekday, they must be paid double time.
Federal law also prohibits children 14 and 15 from working more than 12 consecutive hours per day. States may impose additional restrictions. For example, California requires children 14 and 15 to take mandatory breaks every three hours.
How to get a job at age 14
Many states have different laws regarding who can work and when they are allowed to start.
While some states don’t require permits for minors to apply for work, others require a work permit signed by their parent, guardian, or employer and then filed with their school or local Department of Labor office.
Many jobs are ideal first jobs, especially for teenagers. They include walking dogs, babysitting, tutoring, cleaning up yard debris, and pet sitting.
You can make money doing most of those things, too. Here are some tips to help you find work opportunities:
- Start with friends and family. If someone asks you to do something, ask yourself whether it’s something you could do. Do you know anyone else who might want to hire you?
- Look online. There are many job boards where employers post openings. Searching for terms like “teen jobs,” “first job,” “teen employment,” “payroll jobs,” “work at home,” etc., will give you lots of options.
- Use social media. Ensure you’re following companies that offer positions you’d like to pursue. Then tweet about what you’ve learned and how much you love working there.
- Ask your school counselor. Some schools have programs designed specifically to connect students with potential employers. Your guidance counselor can tell you more about these types of programs.
- Go to career fairs. Career fairs usually take place every spring. Check out local colleges, high schools, and universities to see if they host one near you.
Best jobs for 14-year-olds

The world of employment is changing quickly. As technology advances, it becomes easier for employers to find qualified workers. If you are looking for a way to earn money while still attending school, consider one of these 20 best jobs for 14-year-olds.
- Caddy
- Cashier
- Snow shoveling
- Pool cleaner
- Barista
- Busser
- Babysitting
- Pet walking and sitting
- House cleaning
- Garden Assistant
- Leaf removal
- Host or hostess
- Ice cream scooper
- Assistant
- Dish cleaner
- Blogging
- Programming
- Car Washer
- Tutor
- Newspaper delivery
Prohibited occupations for 14-year-olds

A child who is 14 may not be employed.
• In manufacturing, mining, or processing occupations;
• In occupations involving the operation or tending of elevators, cranes, hoists, or derricks;
• in occupations that require the use of power-driven machinery other than office machines;
• in public messengers;
• In jobs where the operator has to be around moving parts, dangerous situations, or high places;
• In jobs where falling objects, fire, explosions, or electric current are likely to hurt him.
Information on minors and employment
In California, almost all minors under 18 are subject to child labor protections. They must obtain a minor employment permit from the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (CAL/OSHA).
With these permits, minors can do jobs like cleaning, construction, farming, logging, fishing, mining, quarrying, oil production, commercial fishing, and janitorial work.
But it doesn’t let them do dangerous things like operate heavy machinery, work near dangerous equipment, use power tools, or do work with electricity.
The California Child Labor Laws require employers to provide a safe workplace for children.
Employers must comply with federal OSHA standards and ensure that employees are trained in safety procedures. In addition, employers must train supervisors and managers regarding child labor laws.
Work permits

A minor under 18 years old employed in the state of California must obtain a permit to work before being permitted to work. This permit is known as a Permit to Employ and Work. In most cases, the employer must obtain a valid Permit to Employ and Work from the state agency designated to issue such permits.
The Permit to Employ and Work is issued on the same form as the application for employment. An employee’s name appears on the face of the permit while the employer’s name appears on the reverse side.
Child labor laws

The California Child Labor Law says that employers can’t hire kids younger than 14 for jobs that are dangerous to their health and safety. This includes jobs with machinery, power tools, welding, cutting torches, explosives, acids, caustics, solvents, toxic chemicals, radioactive materials, drugs, alcohol, tobacco products, firearms, knives, sharp objects, dangerous animals, or small spaces.
Employers must post signs prohibiting the employment of minors in hazardous jobs. Violators are subject to fines up to $2,500 per violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Summer work for 14-year-olds?
If you’re looking for something fun to do during the summer vacation, consider working as a virtual tutor. With education becoming increasingly digital, offering help in person rather than just online makes sense.
There are many ways to make money as a virtual tutor, including collaborating with others online. Whether you use Skype, Google Hangouts, or another tool, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to connect with students worldwide.
Another option is to become an ice cream scooper. Many businesses hire teens to help customers pick out flavors of ice cream.
This job could be perfect for someone who enjoys interacting with people while making a little money. Most ice cream shops require employees to wear gloves and aprons, so you don’t have to worry about getting messy.
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Making money online legally for teens: Is it possible?

Yes! You can make money online legally, even as a teen. There are many ways to do it, including freelance writing, data entry, and selling things like handmade crafts and digital art. Some teens use apps such as TaskRabbit to find gigs they want to have done.
Others take advantage of sites like Fiverr, where people offer to complete tasks for $5. If you have a knack for creative projects, consider taking up arts and crafts or sewing. Or, start a blog about something you love.
You don’t necessarily need to build a brand. Many teens already have one, whether it’s a YouTube channel, an Instagram account, or a blog. Use those platforms to showcase your skills and earn money while you learn the ropes.
Key takeaway
So, if you’re a middle or high school student looking for your first job, don’t fret. You can do it! Follow the advice in this post and get in touch with our team at LancerBee.
We’ll be happy to help you create a resume that will make any employer take notice, as well as give you some tips on how to ace your interview. And who knows? You may land your dream job before you even finish high school. Good luck!