What's the Minimum Legal Working Age in Virginia? (2024)

If you are a teenager in Virginianthinking about getting your first job, you need to know theminimum legal working age in your commonwealth. After you determine if you're eligibleto work figure out how you plan to use your new income. Do you need to pay for school supplies, date night, video games, clothing or college tuition? Or, perhaps you're working because your family needs help paying for household expenses. Whatever the situation, it's important to know the rules governing the workplace.

Age and Other Requirements

Child labor laws vary by state regardingtheminimum age to workand which permits are needed. In the state of Virginia, both federal child labor laws and state law arein accordance that the minimum age to work is 14. If there are any conflicts between state and federal law, federal law will apply if it'smore stringent.

However, the minimum work age work does not usually include door-to-door sales (e.g., the Girl Scout cookie drive), working on a farmand the entertainment industry. These employment categories have different minimum age requirements. Additionally, there are child labor laws that restrict the number of hours juveniles areallowed to work.

Before teensbegin theirjobs, it's a good idea to review the regulations surrounding the childlabor laws.

Required Certificates

Virginia lawrequireschild employment certificatesfor those under the age of 16. You can find employment certificates online. You'll have to mail the certificates back, and your employer has to fill out paperwork as well. The Commonwealth does not require age certificates.

Work Restrictions

Although Virginians ages 14-15 can work in offices, restaurants, grocery stores, hospitals and much more, the hours they can work is limited. Additionally, youth this age can't work more thanthreehours during a school day,18 hours during a school week,eighthours during a non-school day or40 hours during a non-school week.

Work must also bedone during the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. (except from June 1 through Labor Day, whenworkhours extend to 9 p.m.). Virginians ages 16-17 may work up to four hours on a school day, eight hours on a non-school day and 28 hours during school weeks. Teens must have at least a 30-minute break after working for five hours straight.

Older teens, while they enjoy more flexibility and don't face the same restrictions, are not allowed to work in dangerous jobs. Also, teens younger than 16 "are prohibited from several occupations which are considered unhealthy, unwholesome or dangerous," according to the Commonwealth. They must also refrain from working in hazardous jobs.

Virginia employers that violate the labor laws are subject tofinesranging from $1,000 to as much as $10,000.

For more information on the minimum age to work in Virginia and how to obtain employment certificates, visit the Virginia State Labor Website.

What's the Minimum Legal Working Age in Virginia? (2024)

FAQs

What is the minimum working age in Virginia? ›

Except as part of a regular work-training program in accordance with §§ 40.1-88 and 40.1-89, no child under 16 years of age shall be employed, permitted or suffered to work: 1.

How many hours can a 14 year old work in VA? ›

Teenagers fourteen and fifteen years of age engaged in non-agricultural work may not work: - During school hours unless they are enrolled in a school work-training pro- gram. - More than forty hours in any one week when school is not in session. - More than eighteen hours in any one week when school is in session.

Can you get a job at 14 in Virginia? ›

In general, 14- and 15-year-olds: must have an employment certificate, (Code of Virginia § 40.1-84) have limits on hours they can work, and. cannot work in certain jobs considered to be unhealthy, unwholesome, or dangerous.

How many hours can a 17 year old work in Virginia? ›

Maximum hours/days when school is not in session: 8 hours daily / 40 hours weekly/ 6 days weekly. Maximum hours/days when school is in session: 3 hours daily/ 18 hours weekly. For Minors Ages 16 and 17: Virginia has no restrictions on maximum working hours for minors aged 16 and 17.

Can you work at Target at 14 in Virginia? ›

before you apply

You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a Target store job. You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Target Distribution Center job. You must be able to provide proof of legal aurthorization to work in the United States.

Can a 12 year old work in Virginia? ›

Generally, no child under 14 years of age may be employed in any gainful occupation. No child under 16 years of age may be employed during school hours, unless the child has reached the age of 14, is enrolled in a regular work-training program, and a work-training certificate has been issued for the child's employment.

Can I work 8 hours without a lunch break in Virginia? ›

If an employee works 8 or more consecutive hours, the employer must provide a 30-minute break and an additional 15 minute break for every additional 4 consecutive hours worked. Applies to retail establishments.

How many hours can a minor work VA? ›

State or other jurisdictionMaximum daily and weekly hours and days per week for minors of age: a
Under 16
Virginia8-40-6, non-school period. school day/week: 3-18 c
Washington8-40-6 school day/week: 3 (8 Saturday and Sunday) - 16/6
West Virginia8-40-6 non-school day/week period; School day/week: 3-18 c
51 more rows

What is curfew in Virginia? ›

It shall be unlawful for any minor under the age of eighteen (18) to be present on any street, road, alley, avenue, park or other public place in the city, or in any vehicle operating or parked thereon, between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., unless accompanied by the parent, guardian or other adult person ...

Can you work at Chick Fil A at 14 in Virginia? ›

Along with a competitive paycheck, you will work in a nurturing environment where you will learn valuable business and people skills. We are looking for friendly, enthusiastic people (ages 14 and up) who enjoy serving customers.

What age does Walmart hire? ›

As a minimum age requirement, you must be at least 16 years old to work at Walmart and 18 at Sam's Club. Certain positions, however, require a minimum age of 18. As you prepare to complete your application have your prior work history available.

Does Wendy's hire at 14 in Virginia? ›

Does Wendy's Hire at 14? Yes.

What is the law for 17 year olds working? ›

Young people can't work more than eight hours a day or more than 40 hours a week. Unlike adults, there is no opt out for this. If you work for two different employers on the same day, you still can't work more than a total of eight hours. In England you must be in part-time education or training until your 18th ...

What is the longest a 17 year old can work? ›

You shouldn't usually be asked to work more than 40 hours a week or 8 hours a day. Your employer is allowed to ask you to work for longer in exceptional circ*mstances. They can only ask this if: no one who's 18 or over is available to do the work.

What's the longest you can work at 17? ›

17-Year-Old Employee Hours

Employees 17 and older can work any number of hours and any days of the week under the federal law. The only restrictions the FLSA places on 17-year-olds pertain to the jobs or occupations in which they can be employed.

What age does Publix hire? ›

Entry-Level Jobs at Publix

Individuals as young as 14 can begin to pass along our culture, even without the benefit of prior work experience, and job seekers of all ages are sure to find Publix a rewarding workplace.

How old do you have to be to work at TJ Maxx in Virginia? ›

16 years old and up.

How old do you have to be to work at Bath and Body Works? ›

Our associates must be 18 years or older.

Can a child work at 13? ›

Children of compulsory school age, working before or after school, at weekends or during school holidays, must have an employment permit issued by the council. Under the Children and Young Person Act 1933, a child: must be 13 years or over before they get a part-time job. cannot work during school hours.

What is the youngest age to get a job? ›

As a general rule, the FLSA sets 14 years old as the minimum age for employment, and limits the number of hours worked by minors under the age of 16.

How many hours can a 13 year old work in Virginia? ›

Employees under the age of 16 can't work more than three hours a day on a school day, 18 hours a week in a school week, eight hours a day on a non-school day or 40 hours a week in a non-school week.

How many breaks in a 10 hour shift in VA? ›

Virginia Law: No Meal or Rest Breaks Required

Some states require employers to provide a meal break, rest breaks, or both. Virginia isn't one of them, however.

What is Virginia's minimum wage 2023? ›

What is the 2023 minimum wage in Virginia? Currently, the 2023 minimum wage is $12.00 an hour for employers in Virginia. According to the US Labor Law Center , these are the previous and current minimum wage rates for the state of Virginia.

How many hours is full time Virginia? ›

A full-time classified employee works a schedule of 40 hours per week (“F” status) or 30 to 39.9 hours per week (“Q' status). Classified employees working a schedule of 20-29 hours per week are part-time (“P” status). There is no classified employment for a schedule of less than 20 hours per week.

Do minors need a work permit in Virginia? ›

Virginia law requires students aged 14 and 15 to obtain a work permit prior to beginning a job. Parents can now electronically access, complete, and download the required forms. The application requires submission of two documents: a Permission for Employment form and an Employer Intent to Employ form.

Does Virginia require lunch breaks? ›

Virginia, like the majority of states, does not require that employers provide their adult employees with breaks—Virginia does, however, require an employer to give a minor employee, defined as anyone under the age of 16, a 30 minute lunch break after working five consecutive hours.”

What is the minimum wage in Virginia for minors? ›

For those under the age of 16 or otherwise excepted, the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour applies, as well as the “training wage” of $4.25 an hour in limited circ*mstances.

How many passengers can a 16 year old have in Virginia? ›

Restrictions on the Number of Passengers

If you are under age 18, you may carry only one passenger under age 21, unless accompanied by a licensed parent, or other adult acting in place of a parent, in the front passenger seat.

Is Virginia a zero tolerance state? ›

Virginia has a zero tolerance law for those under age 21 who drink and drive. If you are convicted of driving after illegally consuming alcohol, the penalty includes losing your driving privilege for one year, and a minimum mandatory fine of $500, or 50 hours of community service.

How late can a 16 year old drive in Virginia? ›

Curfew Restrictions

If you are under age 18, Virginia law prohibits you from driving midnight to 4 A.M.

How old do you have to be to work at KFC in Virginia? ›

With loads of energy, you understand that work is easier - and more fun - working as a team. - And you're at least 16 years old. Keep in mind, this is just basic information. You'll find out more after you apply.

What age can you work at McDonald's? ›

16, this is also the full time age. Minimum age is 16.

Does McDonalds hire at 15? ›

Does McDonalds Hire at 15? – Yes. Despite federal laws on minors working in food service, McDonalds allows 15-year-olds to work in customer service positions.

What is Walmart pay? ›

Often mistaken for a separate app, Walmart Pay is simply a feature on the existing Walmart mobile app. By linking a credit, debit, or gift card to your Walmart Pay account through the Walmart app, you can make contactless payments any time you shop at Walmart in person.

Do Walmart Greeters get paid? ›

The estimated total pay for a Greeter at Walmart is $18 per hour. This number represents the median, which is the midpoint of the ranges from our proprietary Total Pay Estimate model and based on salaries collected from our users. The estimated base pay is $15 per hour.

Can you work at 2 different Walmarts? ›

No Walmart is one company all the stores are linked together but operate separately. You can transfer to a different Walmart but not work at two at the same time.

What age does Arby's hire in Virginia? ›

At least 16 years of age.

What age does Taco Bell hire in Virginia? ›

At What Age Does Taco Bell Hire

Federal child labor laws require foodservice workers to be at least 16 years old.

Does Burger King hire at 14 near me? ›

Burger King hires minors who are 16.

Can a 13 year old work in Virginia? ›

For most jobs, the minimum age to work in Virginia starts at 14 years. However, DOLI allows minors as young as 12 to accept employment in certain occupations deemed suitable for children.

What is the minimum wage for a 14 year old in Virginia? ›

For those under the age of 16 or otherwise excepted, the federal minimum wage of $7.25 an hour applies, as well as the “training wage” of $4.25 an hour in limited circ*mstances.

Can a 15 year old work at Walmart in Virginia? ›

As a minimum age requirement, you must be at least 16 years old to work at Walmart and 18 at Sam's Club. Certain positions, however, require a minimum age of 18. As you prepare to complete your application have your prior work history available.

How old do you have to be to work at 5 below in Virginia? ›

You have to be at least 16. What is the age requirement to work here?

How old do you have to be to work at 7 11 in Virginia? ›

To at 7-Eleven you have to be over 21 simply because they sell alcoholic beverages and also sell tobacco products. 7 eleven sells alcohol so you have to be over 21 to work there.

What time can a 13 year old work till? ›

Under the Children and Young Person Act 1933, a child: must be 13 years or over before they get a part-time job. cannot work during school hours. can only work between 7am and 7pm.

Where is the lowest minimum wage? ›

The two states with the lowest minimum wage are Georgia and Wyoming, both sitting at $5.15; however, employers in Georgia and Wyoming that are subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act must still pay the $7.25 Federal minimum wage.

Where can a 15 year old work in VA? ›

Although Virginians ages 14-15 can work in offices, restaurants, grocery stores, hospitals and much more, the hours they can work is limited.

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