I am 16 or 17

Although there are no federal rules limiting the hours 16 and 17-year-olds may work, there are restrictions on the types of jobs you can do.

What hours can I work?

At 16 and 17 you may work unlimited hours.

What Jobs can I do?

Any job that has not been declared hazardous by the Secretary of Labor is permissible for 16- and 17 year olds.

For a list of hazardous jobs, see information under "What do I need to know about workplace hazards?"

How much should I be paid?

Although some exceptions may apply, in most circumstances you must be paid the federal minimum wage, $7.25 per hour. Your eligibility for the federal minimum wage depends on what you do and where you work.

If you are younger than 20 and eligible for the minimum wage, your employer may pay you as little as $4.25 per hour for the first 90 consecutive calendar days of your employment. This is not limited to your first employer. Each time you change jobs, your new employer can pay you this youth minimum wage.

There are different rules for 16 and 17-year-olds working in agriculture. States also have rules, and employers must follow both.

Read more about exemptions from child labor rules.