Before you start applying for various jobs, you will need to know what laws apply to those individuals under the age of 18. There are labor laws set up to protect the health and well being of children throughout the state. These are in place to prevent any form of exploitation, and to prevent work related activities from getting in the way of schooling and education. 

Basic Questions

How old do I need to be to start working in Virginia?

For most jobs, you must be at least 14 before you are able to begin working in the state of Virginia via a workers permit. Depending on the kind of work you are doing, you may be able to find work at a younger age. More information on this can be found below.

How many hours am I allowed to work during the week?

Individuals between the ages of 14-15 are permitted to work the hours listed below:

Students between the ages of 16-17 are permitted to work as many hours as they would like,  so long as they follow their school's attendance policy and adhere to any curfews that may be put in place. 

What companies will hire at the age of 14?

A list of companies is provided on this page. If you don't see anything that is local to you, a quick Google search should provide you with additional companies outside of the ones listed.

It is also recommended that you check with local small businesses and see if they would be willing to hire you for various jobs that are available. 

Am I allowed to do any work before the age of 14?

Yes, depending on what you do or who you work for, you may be able to do certain tasks and receive compensation for your work. 

What work is available to those under the age of 14?

If you are at least 12 years old, you are legally allowed to:

• Work on a farm or an orchard that belongs to someone else
• Deliver a local newspaper
• Referee at a sporting event that is run by a charitable organization or a government organization

NOTE: You MUST have your parents permission to perform these jobs if you do decide to start working at an earlier age. 

What if I want to work for my family?

A person at any age is legally allowed to:

• Work at home cleaning or doing domestic based jobs
• Work on a family farm
• Work in  a business owned by their parents so long as you are not doing anything that involves manufacturing, mining, or any other dangerous job
• Work at another persons house doing babysitting tasks or cleaning
• Participate with a volunteer organization

Where am I NOT allowed to work?

A minor under the age of 16 is legally not allowed to do any of the following:

• Work in a brick, coal, or lumber facility
• Perform hotel room service
• Work in a dance studio
• Work in a veterinarian office
• Any form of warehouse work
• Any construction
• Any form of care for residents in a hospital or nursing home
• Work in a dry cleaners or laundromat
• Work in a funeral home
• Any form of curbside service for a restaurant
• Lifeguard at a beach.