Child Labor FAQs
b. When are they required?
c. Homeschool Students
d. Minors under 14 years of age
b. 16 Year Olds
c. 17 Year Olds
d. Withdrawn/Graduate
e. Training Wage
b. 16 - 17 Year Olds
c. Hazardous Occupations in Agriculture
b. Employers
c. Parents/Students
b. Technical Issues
c. Mandatory Use
d. How to Sign Up
b. Violations
Q: How does a minor obtain a work permit?
A: Nearly all minors ages 14 through 17 who wish to work in Indiana are required to obtain a work permit. Work permits are obtained from the accredited high school in the school district where the minor resides. To obtain a work permit, a minor must first be hired by an employer. The employer must provide the accredited school with written notice that they intend to hire the minor, as well as the hours the minor will work and the types of duties the minor will perform. To streamline the process, the Indiana Department of Labor has developed the "Intent to Employ/A1" form which includes all of the information an employer will need to provide.
The minor must then return the notice, in person, to the Issuing Officer at the accredited high school. The minor will also need to provide proof of age--traditionally by presenting a copy of his/her birth certificate. If the minor does not attend the accredited high school, the minor may be required to provide a letter from his/her school stating that the minor is in good academic and attendance standing. Once these documents are examined and found to be in good order, the minor should be issued a work permit. There is no cost associated with filing for or issuing a work permit. The work permit must remain on file at the site where the minor is working.
Q: If I hire a minor from out-of-state, where does he/she obtain a work permit?
A: Work permits for out-of-state minors may be obtained at the accredited high school in the school district where the employer is located. He/she will need to bring proof of age (i.e. State ID, birth certificate, etc.) to the issuing officer at the accredited school. By law, the minor must appear before the issuing officer. This process cannot be completed by a parent or over the phone. The minor will also be required to present an "Intent to Employ/A1" form to the school issuing officer. This is a form that the employer must fill out and sign detailing where and what hours you will be working. If you are not a student at the school where you are applying for a work permit, you may be required to provide a written statement from your school stating that your attendance and academics are in good standing.
Q: Schools are out of session for summer break. Where can I obtain a work permit?
A: During the summer months, each school system should have an office open for issuing work permits. Please contact your school administration offices to find out where a minor may obtain a work permit.
Q: My high school principal refuses to issue a work permit for me. What can I do?
A: Indiana's Child Labor laws give most of the authority for issuing a work permit to the school issuing officer. An issuing officer may deny a work permit if a student's attendance is not in good standing or his or her academic performance does not meet the school corporation's standard. If this is a particular case that does not fall under this definition, please contact the Bureau of Child Labor by e-mail at childlabor@dol.in.gov or by phone at (317) 232-2655.
A: Indiana's Child Labor laws give most of the authority for issuing a work permit to the school issuing officer. An issuing officer may deny a work permit if a student's attendance is not in good standing or his or her academic performance does not meet the school corporation's standard. If this is a particular case that does not fall under this definition, please contact the Bureau of Child Labor by e-mail at childlabor@dol.in.gov or by phone at (317) 232-2655.
Q: How many work permits may a minor hold?
A: A minor may hold more than one work permit as long as his/her employment does not extend past the Total Work Hours restrictions.
For more information regarding Indiana's Child Labor laws, please e-mail childlabor@dol.in.gov or call (317) 232-2655.
A: A minor may hold more than one work permit as long as his/her employment does not extend past the Total Work Hours restrictions.
For more information regarding Indiana's Child Labor laws, please e-mail childlabor@dol.in.gov or call (317) 232-2655.
Q: Can a minor obtain a work permit if he/she is under the age of 14?
A: No. Most occupations in Indiana require that a minor be at least 14 years of age. There are, however, a few exceptions. If a minor is working as a farm laborer, domestic worker, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, performer/actor, or if the minor is legally emancipated, he/she may be permitted to work under the age of 14. Even if the minor is working for a parent, he/she must be at least 14 years old to perform any job other than those listed above.
A: No. Most occupations in Indiana require that a minor be at least 14 years of age. There are, however, a few exceptions. If a minor is working as a farm laborer, domestic worker, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, performer/actor, or if the minor is legally emancipated, he/she may be permitted to work under the age of 14. Even if the minor is working for a parent, he/she must be at least 14 years old to perform any job other than those listed above.
b. When are they required?
Q: Can a minor work for me if he/she doesn't have a Work Permit?
A: In general, no. A minor may not work or attend paid training until he/she has obtained a work permit. There are, however, a few exceptions. If a minor is working as a farm laborer, domestic worker, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, performer/actor/model, or if the minor is legally emancipated, a high school graduate (or equivalent) or employed by his or her own parent who is the sole proprietor of a business, the minor is exempt from obtaining a work permit.
Q: If I withdraw/drop-out from high school, do I still need a work permit?
A: Yes. Unless a minor is a high school graduate (or equivalent), legally emancipated, working for a parent who is the sole proprietor of a business, or working as a farm laborer, domestic worker, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, performer/actor/model, the minor is required to obtain a work permit.
A: Yes. Unless a minor is a high school graduate (or equivalent), legally emancipated, working for a parent who is the sole proprietor of a business, or working as a farm laborer, domestic worker, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, performer/actor/model, the minor is required to obtain a work permit.
Q: Do minors need to have work permits to work during the summer?
A: Yes. Minors are still required to obtain a work permit for summer employment. During the summer months, each school system will have an office open for the issuing work permits. Please contact your school administration offices to find out where a minor may obtain a work permit.
A: Yes. Minors are still required to obtain a work permit for summer employment. During the summer months, each school system will have an office open for the issuing work permits. Please contact your school administration offices to find out where a minor may obtain a work permit.
Q: Is a minor who volunteers for a business still subject to the Child Labor laws?
A: Most likely. The definition of “volunteer” is quite vague under Indiana law. If a minor is “permitted or suffered to work,” the Bureau of Child Labor considers that minor an employee and not a volunteer. Essentially, if a minor performs a task that in any way furthers the prosperity of a business, the minor would still be considered an employee for the purposes of the child labor laws. We would recommend following all of the Child Labor laws including restrictions on underage employment, work hours and Prohibited/Hazardous Occupations. Minors must also obtain a work permit before beginning work or attending training. In Indiana, a minor must be at least 14 years of age before beginning work in an established business. The only jobs available to someone under the age of 14 are actor, performer, model, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, domestic service worker (babysitter) and farm laborer.
A: Most likely. The definition of “volunteer” is quite vague under Indiana law. If a minor is “permitted or suffered to work,” the Bureau of Child Labor considers that minor an employee and not a volunteer. Essentially, if a minor performs a task that in any way furthers the prosperity of a business, the minor would still be considered an employee for the purposes of the child labor laws. We would recommend following all of the Child Labor laws including restrictions on underage employment, work hours and Prohibited/Hazardous Occupations. Minors must also obtain a work permit before beginning work or attending training. In Indiana, a minor must be at least 14 years of age before beginning work in an established business. The only jobs available to someone under the age of 14 are actor, performer, model, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, domestic service worker (babysitter) and farm laborer.
c. Homeschool Students
Q: Do homeschool students need a work permit?
A: In most cases, yes. A minor may not work or attend paid training until he/she has obtained a work permit. There are, however, a few exceptions. If a minor is working as a farm laborer, domestic worker, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, performer/actor/model, or if the minor is legally emancipated, a high school graduate (or equivalent) or employed by his or her own parent who is the sole proprietor of a business, the minor is exempt from obtaining a work permit.
Q: How does a homeschool minor obtain a work permit?
A: Nearly all minors ages 14 through 17 who wish to work in Indiana are required to obtain a work permit. Work permits are obtained from the accredited high school in the school district where the minor resides. To obtain a work permit, a minor must first be hired by an employer. This employer must provide the accredited school with written notice that they intend to hire the minor, as well as the hours the minor will work and the types of duties the minor will perform. To streamline the process, the Indiana Department of Labor has developed the "Intent to Employ/A1" form which includes all of the information an employer will need to provide.
The minor must then return the notice, in person, to the Issuing Officer at the accredited high school. The minor will also need to provide proof of age--traditionally a copy of his/her birth certificate. If the minor does not attend the accredited high school, the minor may be required to provide a letter from his/her school stating that the minor is in good academic and attendance standing. In the case of a homeschool student, the parent, tutor or proctor of the homeschool program may issue this letter of academic and attendance standing. Once these documents are examined and found to be in good order, the minor should be issued a work permit. There is no cost associated with filing for or issuing a work permit. The work permit must remain on file at the site where the minor is working.
Q: How many work permits may a minor hold?
A: A minor may hold more than one work permit as long as their employment does not extend past the Total Work Hours restrictions.
For more information regarding Indiana's Child Labor laws, please e-mail childlabor@dol.in.gov or call (317) 232-2655.
Q: The high school refuses to issue a work permit for me since I do not attend that school. What can I do?
A: Indiana's Child Labor laws give most of the authority for issuing a work permit to the school issuing officer. An issuing officer may deny a work permit if a student's attendance is not in good standing or his or her academic performance does not meet the school corporation's standard. A school should not necessarily deny issuing a work permit simply because a minor is not a student at the school. If the school is refusing based upon your not being a student with that school, please contact the Bureau of Child Labor by e-mail at childlabor@dol.in.gov or by phone at (317) 232-2655.
c. Minors under 14 years of age
Q: Can my son/daughter work in my business if he/she is under 14 years of age?
A: In most cases, no. In Indiana, a minor must be at least 14 years of age before beginning work in an established business even if he/she will be working for his/her parent. The only jobs available to someone under the age of 14 are actor, performer, model, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, domestic service worker (babysitter) and farm laborer.
Q: Is a minor who volunteers for a business still subject to the Child Labor laws?
A: Most likely. The definition of “volunteer” is quite vague under Indiana law. If a minor is “permitted or suffered to work,” the Bureau of Child Labor considers that minor an employee and not a volunteer. Essentially, if a minor performs a task that in any way furthers the prosperity of a business, the minor would still be considered an employee for the purposes of the child labor laws. We would recommend following all of the Child Labor laws including restrictions on underage employment, work hours and Prohibited/Hazardous Occupations. Minors must also obtain a work permit before beginning work or attending training. In Indiana, a minor must be at least 14 years of age before beginning work in an established business. The only jobs available to someone under the age of 14 are actor, performer, model, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, domestic service worker (babysitter) and farm laborer.
2. Hours of Work
a. 14 - 15 Year Olds
Q: Can a minor work for me if he/she is under the age of 14?
A: In general, no. Most occupations in Indiana require that a minor be at least 14 years of age. There are, however, a few exceptions. If a minor is working as a farm laborer, domestic worker, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, performer/actor, or if the minor is legally emancipated, he/she may be permitted to work under the age of 14. Even if the minor is working for a parent, he/she must be at least 14 years old to perform any job other than those listed above.
Q: What hours may a 14 or 15 year old work?
A: 14 & 15 year olds may work:
- 3 hours per school day,
- 8 hours per non-school day,
- 18 hours per school week,
- 40 hours per non-school week.
* If a minor 14 through 17 years of age works six or more hours in a shift, the employer is required to provide the minor with one or two breaks totaling at least 30 minutes. These breaks may be taken at any point during the minor's shift. Indiana Administrative Code 610 IAC 10-3-2 requires that break logs be maintained by the employer to document all paid and unpaid breaks provided to minor employees.
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Q: What hours may a 16 year old work?
A: 16 year olds may work
b. 16 Year Olds
Q: What hours may a 16 year old work?
A: 16 year olds may work
- 8 hours per school day,
- 30 hours per week,
- and until 10:00 p.m. on nights followed by a school day.
- 9 hours per day,
- until 12:00 a.m. on nights NOT followed by a school day,
- 40 hours per school week,
- and/or 48 hours per non-school week.
* If a minor 14 through 17 years of age works six or more hours in a shift, the employer is required to provide the minor with one or two breaks totaling at least 30 minutes. These breaks may be taken at any point during the minor's shift. Indiana Administrative Code 610 IAC 10-3-2 requires that break logs be maintained by the employer to document all paid and unpaid breaks provided to minor employees.
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Q: What hours may a 17 year old work?
A: 17 year olds may work
17 year olds may not work more than 6 days per week (6 consecutive days) and may not begin work before 6:00 a.m. on school days.
c. 17 Year Olds
Q: What hours may a 17 year old work?
A: 17 year olds may work
- 8 hours per school day,
- 30 hours per week,
- and until 10:00 p.m. on nights followed by a school day.
- 9 hours per day,
- 40 hours per school week,
- 48 hours per non-school week,
- until 11:30 p.m. on nights followed by a school day
- or until 1:00 a.m. on nights followed by a school day, but not on consecutive nights and not more than two school nights per week.
17 year olds may not work more than 6 days per week (6 consecutive days) and may not begin work before 6:00 a.m. on school days.
* If a minor 14 through 17 years of age works six or more hours in a shift, the employer is required to provide the minor with one or two breaks totaling at least 30 minutes. These breaks may be taken at any point during the minor's shift. Indiana Administrative Code 610 IAC 10-3-2 requires that break logs be maintained by the employer to document all paid and unpaid breaks provided to minor employees.
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Q: If a minor has withdrawn from school or graduated, is he/she still bound by the hour restrictions?
A: If a minor is 16 years of age or older and has withdrawn or graduated from high school, he or she is no longer bound by the Child Labor hour restrictions or break requirements.
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Q: What is the "training wage" and when does it apply?
A: Under Indiana's Minimum Wage law, Hoosier employers may pay a wage of $4.25 per hour to employees under 20 years of age for the first 90 consecutive calendar days after the employee is initially employed by the employer. However, no employer may take any action to displace employees (including partial displacements such as reduction in hours, wages, or employment benefits) for purposes of hiring individuals at the training wage.
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Q: What occupations are prohibited for a 14 or 15 year old?
A: 14 & 15 year olds may not work in any of the following occupations:
d. Withdrawn/Graduate
Q: If a minor has withdrawn from school or graduated, is he/she still bound by the hour restrictions?
A: If a minor is 16 years of age or older and has withdrawn or graduated from high school, he or she is no longer bound by the Child Labor hour restrictions or break requirements.
e. Training Wage
Q: What is the "training wage" and when does it apply?
A: Under Indiana's Minimum Wage law, Hoosier employers may pay a wage of $4.25 per hour to employees under 20 years of age for the first 90 consecutive calendar days after the employee is initially employed by the employer. However, no employer may take any action to displace employees (including partial displacements such as reduction in hours, wages, or employment benefits) for purposes of hiring individuals at the training wage.
3. Prohibited / Hazardous Occupations
a. 14 - 15 Year Olds
Q: What occupations are prohibited for a 14 or 15 year old?
A: 14 & 15 year olds may not work in any of the following occupations:
- Manufacturing and working in workrooms where goods are manufactured
- Mining and working in workrooms where goods are mined
- Processing and working in workrooms where goods are processed
- Operating, tending setting up, adjusting, cleaning, oiling or repairing power-driven machinery
- Cooking and Baking
- Work in freezers or meat coolers
- Preparation of meats for sale
- Working in or about boiler or engine rooms
- Maintaining of a building, establishment machines or equipment
- Operating a motor vehicle
- Working as a vehicle helper
- Loading a motor vehicle
- Operating, tending, setting up, adjusting, cleaning, oiling, repairing power driven machinery
- Catching or cooping poultry for transport to sale or to market
- Transportation of people or goods
- Warehousing and storage
- Communications
- Public messenger
- Youth peddling
- Advertising by holding signs, waving banners or wearing costumes
- Construction/Demolition/Repair
- Using ladders, scaffolds or other similar equipment
- Outside window washing
Q: Are 14 and 15 year olds allowed to use a lawn mower or weed cutter?
A: No. Minors 14 and 15 years old are prohibited from operating most power-driven machinery, including lawn mowers, tractors or weed cutters, in conjunction with any business. They may, however, operate many types of office machines and food service machines including milkshake mixers, popcorn poppers and coffee grinders.
A: No. Minors 14 and 15 years old are prohibited from operating most power-driven machinery, including lawn mowers, tractors or weed cutters, in conjunction with any business. They may, however, operate many types of office machines and food service machines including milkshake mixers, popcorn poppers and coffee grinders.
b. 16 Year Olds
Q: What occupations are prohibited for 16 and 17 year olds?
A: With limited exceptions, 16 and 17 year olds may not work in any of the following occupations:
- Occupations in or about plants or establishments manufacturing or storing explosives or articles containing explosive components
- Occupations of motor-vehicle driver and outside helper
- Coal-mine occupations
- Forest fire fighting and forest fire prevention occupations, timber tract occupations, forestry service occupations, logging occupations, and occupations in the operation of any sawmill, lath mill, shingle mill, or cooperage stock mill
- Occupations involved in the operation of power-driven woodworking machines*
- Exposure to radioactive substances and to ionizing radiations
- Occupations involved in the operation of power-driven hoisting apparatus
- Occupations involved in the operations of power-driven metal forming, punching, and shearing machines*
- Occupations in connection with mining, other than coal
- Occupations in the operation of power-driven meat-processing machines and occupations involving slaughtering, meat and poultry packing, processing, or rendering*
- Occupations involved in the operation of bakery machines
- Occupations involved in the operation of balers, compactors, and paperproducts machines*
- Occupations involved in the manufacture of brick, tile, and kindred products
- Occupations involving the operation of circular saws, band saws, guillotine shears, chain saws, reciprocating saws, wood chippers, and abrasive cutting discs*
- Occupations involved in wrecking, demolition, and shipbreaking operations
- Occupations in roofing operations and on or about a roof*
- Occupations in excavation operations*
Q: Are 16 and 17 year olds allowed to use a lawn mower or weed cutter?
A: In most cases, yes. Minors 16 and 17 years old are allowed to use most mowing and weed cutting equipment. Weed cutters, however, must not be outfitted with a saw blade attachment. Push mowers, garden tractors and riding lawn mowers are also allowed, as long as the tractors and riding mowers are not operated on public roadways. Driving the riding mower or tractor on a roadway would be considered operation of a motor vehicle and would be prohibited.
A: In most cases, yes. Minors 16 and 17 years old are allowed to use most mowing and weed cutting equipment. Weed cutters, however, must not be outfitted with a saw blade attachment. Push mowers, garden tractors and riding lawn mowers are also allowed, as long as the tractors and riding mowers are not operated on public roadways. Driving the riding mower or tractor on a roadway would be considered operation of a motor vehicle and would be prohibited.
c. Hazardous Occupations in Agriculture
Q: What occupations are considered hazardous for minors working in agriculture?
Please visit our Hazardous and Prohibited Occupations page.
4. Supplies/Posters
a. Schools
Q: Our school needs supplies for issuing work permits to minors. How can I order them?
A: Many of the state forms used by the Bureau of Child Labor are available on our "Forms and Publications" webpage at http://www.in.gov/dol/2400.htm . Please download any forms you may need from this page and print them as you need them.
Q: Has the Indiana Department of Labor discontinued the use of State Seal Stickers for online work permits?
A: Yes. Schools should now use the embossing seal or stamp that they would typically use to validate official transcripts. This stamp or seal should be placed in the top right corner of the work permit that reads "Void Without Proper Validation." Work permits will not be considered valid without this authentication.
b. Employers
Q: My company needs forms and posters for minors working in our business. How can I order them?
A: Many of the state forms used by the Bureau of Child Labor are available on our "Forms and Publications" webpage at http://www.in.gov/dol/2400.htm . Please download any forms you may need from this page and print them as you need them.
Q: What Child Labor document(s) am I required to post in my workplace?
A: If your business employs minors, you must post the "Notice of Teen Work Hours Restrictions" poster. This poster details what hours a minor may or may not work based on age. It also references the Teen Break Law as well as addressing safety concerns for minors working late hours. This poster is available for free online at www.in.gov/dol/2400.htm.
Q: What are Parental Permission Forms?
A: Parental Permission Forms are provided by the Indiana Department of Labor to document extended hours that a parent has authorized a 16 or 17 year old to work. These forms should be kept with the minor's records and are subject to inspection by the Indiana Department of Labor. Written parental permission must be obtained before the minor works any extended hours.
A: Parental Permission Forms are provided by the Indiana Department of Labor to document extended hours that a parent has authorized a 16 or 17 year old to work. These forms should be kept with the minor's records and are subject to inspection by the Indiana Department of Labor. Written parental permission must be obtained before the minor works any extended hours.
c. Parents/Students
Q: My school says I need an "Intent to Employ" form to get a work permit. Where can I get one?
A: The "Intent to Employ/A1" form is a form that your employer is required to complete. You will be required to present it to your school's issuing officer before you are issued a work permit. A blank copy may be picked up from a work permit Issuing Officer or online at www.in.gov/dol/2400.htm .
5. Online Work Permit System
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Q: What is the "Online Work Permit System?"
A: In 2004, the Indiana Department of Labor activated the "Online Work Permit System." This system is designed to replace much of the paperwork and postage required by the old green form system. The system is fully automated and allows schools to issue work permits quickly and with on-hand supplies. The data included in the work permit system is an invaluable tool used frequently for compiling reports by the Indiana Department of Labor.
Q: Can we still use the green work permit cards (Form 898)?
A: No. The Indiana Department of Labor will no longer produce or distribute the green work permit cards. Beginning January 1, 2010, all Hoosier schools must use the Online Work Permit System to issue work permits. For training videos and text guides about using the Online Work Permit System, please visit our Forms and Publications page or e-mail the Bureau of Child Labor at childlabor@dol.in.gov.
A: No. The Indiana Department of Labor will no longer produce or distribute the green work permit cards. Beginning January 1, 2010, all Hoosier schools must use the Online Work Permit System to issue work permits. For training videos and text guides about using the Online Work Permit System, please visit our Forms and Publications page or e-mail the Bureau of Child Labor at childlabor@dol.in.gov.
Q: Where can my school order adhesive state seal labels to validate Online Work Permits?
A: The Indiana Department of Labor has discontinued issuing adhesive state seal labels for the validation of work permits. It has been brought to our attention that each school in the state should have an embossing seal or stamp already on hand that is used for the validation of official documents and transcripts. Schools should begin using this seal/stamp as the method for validating work permits.
A: The Indiana Department of Labor has discontinued issuing adhesive state seal labels for the validation of work permits. It has been brought to our attention that each school in the state should have an embossing seal or stamp already on hand that is used for the validation of official documents and transcripts. Schools should begin using this seal/stamp as the method for validating work permits.
Q: Where can I obtain an embosser/stamp for issuing Online Work Permits?
A: There should be no need to purchase new equipment. Each school should have a stamp or embossing seal on hand for the validation of official documents and transcripts. Sometimes, this may be in the Principal's office, the guidance area or the administrative offices. Please check with your school's administrators to determine where this embosser/stamp is located in your school. The Indiana Department of Labor cannot assist in ordering embossers or stamps.
A: There should be no need to purchase new equipment. Each school should have a stamp or embossing seal on hand for the validation of official documents and transcripts. Sometimes, this may be in the Principal's office, the guidance area or the administrative offices. Please check with your school's administrators to determine where this embosser/stamp is located in your school. The Indiana Department of Labor cannot assist in ordering embossers or stamps.
Q: Our Embossing seal/stamp will not reach the area that reads "Void Without Proper Validation." What should we do?
A: In these instances, please get the embosser/stamp as close to that box as possible. It is perfectly acceptable to turn the seal upside down to get it to fit. Especially in the case of the embossing seals, employers and our Investigators should be able to feel the indentions in the paper and be able to easily locate the seal.
A: In these instances, please get the embosser/stamp as close to that box as possible. It is perfectly acceptable to turn the seal upside down to get it to fit. Especially in the case of the embossing seals, employers and our Investigators should be able to feel the indentions in the paper and be able to easily locate the seal.
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Q: The Online Work Permit System is down. Who do I contact?
A: For technical issues with the online work permit system, please e-mail childlabor@dol.in.gov with an explanation of the issue. We will try to quickly diagnose the issue and enlist technical assistance if necessary.
Q: I am an issuing officer and I have lost my user login/password. How do I request a new one?
A: The principal of the accredited school that appointed you as an issuing officer is charged with maintaining your user login and password. If the accredited school principal is unclear on how to reissue the password, he/she may refer to our Forms and Publications page for online videos and a text guide on using the Online Work Permit System.
c. Mandatory Use
Q: When did the Indiana Department of Labor mandate that all schools use the Online Work Permit System?
A: Effective January 1, 2010, all Hoosier schools must now use the Online Work Permit System to issue work permits. For training videos and text guides about using the Online Work Permit System, please visit our Forms and Pulications page or e-mail the Bureau of Child Labor at childlabor@dol.in.gov.
A: Effective January 1, 2010, all Hoosier schools must now use the Online Work Permit System to issue work permits. For training videos and text guides about using the Online Work Permit System, please visit our Forms and Pulications page or e-mail the Bureau of Child Labor at childlabor@dol.in.gov.
d. How to Sign Up
Q: How do I sign up to use the "Online Work Permit System?"
A: The Online Work Permit System is open for use by accredited schools in the State of Indiana. Each accredited school's principal will receive a USER LOGIN and PASSWORD. The principal may then establish a User Login and Password for the school's Issuing Officer(s). For more information on how to use the Online Work Permit System, please visit our Forms and Publications page and watch our online tutorial videos.
A: The Online Work Permit System is open for use by accredited schools in the State of Indiana. Each accredited school's principal will receive a USER LOGIN and PASSWORD. The principal may then establish a User Login and Password for the school's Issuing Officer(s). For more information on how to use the Online Work Permit System, please visit our Forms and Publications page and watch our online tutorial videos.
If you are the principal of an accredited school and you have not received a USER LOGIN or PASSWORD, please e-mail the Bureau of Child Labor at childlabor@dol.in.gov. Please include your name, your e-mail address, your school's name, and your phone number
6. Child Labor Investigation
a. Procedures
Q: Do child labor inspectors call to make an appointment before visiting?
A: No. Child labor inspectors have the statutory authority to inspect any Hoosier business, and will typically not make an appointment for an inspection.
Q: Someone has entered my business claiming to be from your agency. How do I know if someone is really a Child labor Inspector?
A: Indiana's Child Labor Inspectors will have the following pieces of identification that should verify his/her position:
- A state-issued ID badge
- a letter from the Commissioner of Labor identifying the inspector and defining his/her duties
- an ID badge issued by the Indiana Department of Labor, and
- a copy of his/her business card.
Q: Will I be provided with a copy of the inspection report at the time of the investigation?
A: Unfortunately, no. The Bureau of Child Labor has discontinued using hand-written carbon paper forms and now enters all inspections on a laptop. The inspector, however, should provide you with a receipt showing the date of the inspection and giving a tally of any violations found. If the inspector finds violations, the actual report of inspection will be mailed to you 7 to 10 days after the date of inspection.
Q: I was just inspected for child labor violations. When will I be inspected again?
A: Depending on the severity of the violations, the Indiana Department of Labor will typically re-inspect a business within one calendar year of the original inspection.
Q: Are Child Labor Inspectors allowed to talk to my employees?
A: Yes. Child Labor inspectors from the Indiana Department of Labor have the statutory authority to review records, examine work areas and interview employees when conducting a Child Labor Investigation.
Q: Does the Bureau of Child Labor provide training on Child Labor Laws?
A: Yes. The Bureau of Child Labor is happy to provide free training to Hoosier employers, educators, parents and minors on Indiana's Child Labor laws. We often do live seminars as well as teleconferenced trainings. For information on upcoming training seminars and teleconferences, or to schedule a training, please visit our Child Labor Training page at http://www.in.gov/dol/2654.htm or e-mail childlabor@dol.in.gov .
Q: I have received a penalty letter and a notice of civil penalties related to a child labor inspection. Do I have the ability to protest the findings?
A: Yes. The Administrative Orders and Procedures Act allows for a "Petition for Review." If you feel the violations were cited in error, this is your opportunity to let the Indiana Department of Labor know that an error may have occurred. By law, a Petition for Review must be made in writing and received by the Bureau of Child Labor within 30 days of your receipt of the notice of civil penalties. Please include documentary evidence to illustrate why you believe a mistake was made. The Bureau of Child Labor will review the circumstances and the documentary evidence, and we will issue an administrative order either upholding or eliminating the disputed violations. If a petitioner cannot provide evidence to show that an error has occurred, the petition will likely be denied.
Q: Where do I send the Termination Notice once a minor has separated from employment?
A: If a minor in your business has quit, stopped showing up or been fired, the issuing officer at the school that issued the work permit must be notified immediately and in writing. This is typically done using the Termination Notice attached to the Work Permit. Please mail, fax or hand deliver the Termination Notice back to the school that issued the work permit.
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Q: I have received a penalty letter and a notice of civil penalties related to a child labor inspection. Do I have the ability to protest the findings?
A: Yes. The Administrative Orders and Procedures Act allows for a "Petition for Review." If you feel the violations were cited in error, this is your opportunity to let the Indiana Department of Labor know that an error may have occurred. By law, the petitions must be in writing and received by the Bureau of Child Labor within 30 days of your receipt of the notice of civil penalties. Please include documentary evidence to illustrate where you feel a mistake was made. The Bureau of Child Labor will review the circumstances and issue an administrative order. If a petitioner cannot provide evidence to show that an error has occurred, the petition will likely be denied.
Q: Where do I mail my payment of civil penalties?
A: You may mail all payments of civil penalties resulting from child labor investigations to:
Q: What are Parental Permission Forms?
A: Parental Permission Forms are provided by the Indiana Department of Labor to document the hours that a parent has authorized a minor to work. These forms should be kept with the minor's records and are subject to inspection by the Indiana Department of Labor.
Q: What is the difference between a "D" violation (Hour violation: less than 30 minutes) and an "E" violation (Hour violation: more than 30 minutes)?
A: An hour violation occurs when a minor works past the legally allowed maximum for his or her work hours. For example, if a 14 year old works more than 3 hours on a school day, that would be an hour violation. If the 14 year old worked more than three hours but less than 3.5 hours, the violation would be a "D violation" less than 30 minutes." If the 14 year old worked more than 3.5, even only one minute, it would be an "E violation: more than 30 minutes."
Q: What is an "A: Minors without work permits" violation?
A: Nearly all minors (14 through 17) in Indiana are required to obtain a work permit. Notable exceptions are minors who are High School graduates, minors whose parent is the sole proprietor of the business, minors who are legally emancipated, and minors working as performers, actors or photographic models.
The penalties for an "A" violation are as follows:
First Violation: Warning
Second Violation: $50
Third Violation: $75
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $100
Q: What is a "B: Poster not displayed" violation?
A: Indiana law requires that employers post notice of the maximum allowable hours per day, as well as the hours beginning and ending each day. This poster is developed and distributed by the Indiana Department of Labor Online at http://www.in.gov/dol/2400.htm. The poster may also be available, for a fee, from third-party vendors.
The penalties for a "B" violation are as follows:
First Violation: Warning
Second Violation: $50
Third Violation: $75
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $100
Q: What is a "C: Termination notice not returned" violation?
A: The Issuing Officer of a work permit must be notified immediately and in writing of the termination of employment of a minor. This may be done using the bottom half of the Form 898 (Work Permit/Termination Notice) on file for the minor. This document may be transmitted to the issuing officer at the school that issued the work permit by mail, fax, or hand-delivery.
The penalties for a "C" violation are as follows:
First Violation: Warning
Second Violation: $50
Third Violation: $75
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $100
Q: What is a "D: Hour violation: less than 30 minutes" violation?
A: State and Federal laws mandate acceptable work hours for minors. These hours vary based on the minor's age. A "D" violation occurs when a minor works less than 30 minutes past the legally defined deadline for the minor's age. For more frequently asked questions about hours of work, please visit the "Hours of Work" section of the Child Labor FAQs.
The penalties for a "D" violation are as follows:
First Violation: Warning
Second Violation: $50
Third Violation: $75
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $100
Q: What is an "E: Hour violation: more than 30 minutes" violation?
A: State and Federal laws mandate acceptable work hours for minors. These hours vary based on the minor's age. A "E" violation occurs when a minor works more than 30 minutes past the legally defined deadline for the minor's age. Even 31 minutes will trigger this violation. For more frequently asked questions about hours of work, please visit the "Hours of Work" section of the Child Labor FAQs.
The penalties for an "E" violation are as follows:
First Violation: Warning
Second Violation: $100
Third Violation: $200
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $400
A: Yes. The Bureau of Child Labor is happy to provide free training to Hoosier employers, educators, parents and minors on Indiana's Child Labor laws. We often do live seminars as well as teleconferenced trainings. For information on upcoming training seminars and teleconferences, or to schedule a training, please visit our Child Labor Training page at http://www.in.gov/dol/2654.htm or e-mail childlabor@dol.in.gov .
Q: I have received a penalty letter and a notice of civil penalties related to a child labor inspection. Do I have the ability to protest the findings?
A: Yes. The Administrative Orders and Procedures Act allows for a "Petition for Review." If you feel the violations were cited in error, this is your opportunity to let the Indiana Department of Labor know that an error may have occurred. By law, a Petition for Review must be made in writing and received by the Bureau of Child Labor within 30 days of your receipt of the notice of civil penalties. Please include documentary evidence to illustrate why you believe a mistake was made. The Bureau of Child Labor will review the circumstances and the documentary evidence, and we will issue an administrative order either upholding or eliminating the disputed violations. If a petitioner cannot provide evidence to show that an error has occurred, the petition will likely be denied.
Q: Where do I send the Termination Notice once a minor has separated from employment?
A: If a minor in your business has quit, stopped showing up or been fired, the issuing officer at the school that issued the work permit must be notified immediately and in writing. This is typically done using the Termination Notice attached to the Work Permit. Please mail, fax or hand deliver the Termination Notice back to the school that issued the work permit.
b. Violations
Q: I have received a penalty letter and a notice of civil penalties related to a child labor inspection. Do I have the ability to protest the findings?
A: Yes. The Administrative Orders and Procedures Act allows for a "Petition for Review." If you feel the violations were cited in error, this is your opportunity to let the Indiana Department of Labor know that an error may have occurred. By law, the petitions must be in writing and received by the Bureau of Child Labor within 30 days of your receipt of the notice of civil penalties. Please include documentary evidence to illustrate where you feel a mistake was made. The Bureau of Child Labor will review the circumstances and issue an administrative order. If a petitioner cannot provide evidence to show that an error has occurred, the petition will likely be denied.
Q: Where do I mail my payment of civil penalties?
A: You may mail all payments of civil penalties resulting from child labor investigations to:
Indiana Department of Labor
DOL Youth Fund
402 West Washington Street, Room W195
Indianapolis, Indiana 46204.
Q: What are Parental Permission Forms?
A: Parental Permission Forms are provided by the Indiana Department of Labor to document the hours that a parent has authorized a minor to work. These forms should be kept with the minor's records and are subject to inspection by the Indiana Department of Labor.
Q: What is the difference between a "D" violation (Hour violation: less than 30 minutes) and an "E" violation (Hour violation: more than 30 minutes)?
A: An hour violation occurs when a minor works past the legally allowed maximum for his or her work hours. For example, if a 14 year old works more than 3 hours on a school day, that would be an hour violation. If the 14 year old worked more than three hours but less than 3.5 hours, the violation would be a "D violation" less than 30 minutes." If the 14 year old worked more than 3.5, even only one minute, it would be an "E violation: more than 30 minutes."
Q: What is an "A: Minors without work permits" violation?
A: Nearly all minors (14 through 17) in Indiana are required to obtain a work permit. Notable exceptions are minors who are High School graduates, minors whose parent is the sole proprietor of the business, minors who are legally emancipated, and minors working as performers, actors or photographic models.
The penalties for an "A" violation are as follows:
Second Violation: $50
Third Violation: $75
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $100
Q: What is a "B: Poster not displayed" violation?
A: Indiana law requires that employers post notice of the maximum allowable hours per day, as well as the hours beginning and ending each day. This poster is developed and distributed by the Indiana Department of Labor Online at http://www.in.gov/dol/2400.htm. The poster may also be available, for a fee, from third-party vendors.
The penalties for a "B" violation are as follows:
Second Violation: $50
Third Violation: $75
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $100
Q: What is a "C: Termination notice not returned" violation?
A: The Issuing Officer of a work permit must be notified immediately and in writing of the termination of employment of a minor. This may be done using the bottom half of the Form 898 (Work Permit/Termination Notice) on file for the minor. This document may be transmitted to the issuing officer at the school that issued the work permit by mail, fax, or hand-delivery.
The penalties for a "C" violation are as follows:
Second Violation: $50
Third Violation: $75
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $100
Q: What is a "D: Hour violation: less than 30 minutes" violation?
A: State and Federal laws mandate acceptable work hours for minors. These hours vary based on the minor's age. A "D" violation occurs when a minor works less than 30 minutes past the legally defined deadline for the minor's age. For more frequently asked questions about hours of work, please visit the "Hours of Work" section of the Child Labor FAQs.
The penalties for a "D" violation are as follows:
Second Violation: $50
Third Violation: $75
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $100
Q: What is an "E: Hour violation: more than 30 minutes" violation?
A: State and Federal laws mandate acceptable work hours for minors. These hours vary based on the minor's age. A "E" violation occurs when a minor works more than 30 minutes past the legally defined deadline for the minor's age. Even 31 minutes will trigger this violation. For more frequently asked questions about hours of work, please visit the "Hours of Work" section of the Child Labor FAQs.
The penalties for an "E" violation are as follows:
Second Violation: $100
Third Violation: $200
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $400
Q: What is a "F: Prohibited / hazardous occupation" violation?
A: Minors are prohibited by state and federal law from working in certain occupations defined as hazardous under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). For more information on prohibited occupations, please visit the United States Department of Labor online at http://www.youthrules.dol.gov/ or see the Child Labor FAQs concerning Prohibited Occupations.
The penalties for a "F" violation are as follows:
First Violation: Warning
Second Violation: $100
Third Violation: $200
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $400
A: Minors are prohibited by state and federal law from working in certain occupations defined as hazardous under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). For more information on prohibited occupations, please visit the United States Department of Labor online at http://www.youthrules.dol.gov/ or see the Child Labor FAQs concerning Prohibited Occupations.
The penalties for a "F" violation are as follows:
Second Violation: $100
Third Violation: $200
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $400
Q: What is a "G: Under 14 years of age / illegal entertainment" violation?
A: In general, minors under the age of 14 may not work in a Hoosier business. Notable exceptions are minors under 14 employed as Farm Laborers (may not employ under 12 years old), domestic service worker, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, performers, actors and photographic models. Minors are free to work as performers, actors or photographic models at any age, as long as the activities are not detrimental to health or welfare of the minor and do not interfere with schooling (under 16 must receive equivalent to public education). A parent must accompany minor under the age of 16 to all rehearsals and performances. Minors may not perform in a cabaret, dance hall, night club, tavern, or other similar place.
The penalties for a "G" violation are as follows:
A: In general, minors under the age of 14 may not work in a Hoosier business. Notable exceptions are minors under 14 employed as Farm Laborers (may not employ under 12 years old), domestic service worker, golf caddie, newspaper carrier, performers, actors and photographic models. Minors are free to work as performers, actors or photographic models at any age, as long as the activities are not detrimental to health or welfare of the minor and do not interfere with schooling (under 16 must receive equivalent to public education). A parent must accompany minor under the age of 16 to all rehearsals and performances. Minors may not perform in a cabaret, dance hall, night club, tavern, or other similar place.
The penalties for a "G" violation are as follows:
Second Violation: $100
Third Violation: $200
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $400
Q: What is a "H: After 7:30 a.m. and before 3:30 p.m. on school day" violation?
A: In most cases, minors may not work during “school hours” from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm on a school day. 16 and 17 year olds may work during school hours with written permission from the school. 14 and 15 year olds have no such exemptions. Minors working as actors, performers and photographic models are exempt from this requirement.
The penalties for a "H" violation are as follows:
A: In most cases, minors may not work during “school hours” from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm on a school day. 16 and 17 year olds may work during school hours with written permission from the school. 14 and 15 year olds have no such exemptions. Minors working as actors, performers and photographic models are exempt from this requirement.
The penalties for a "H" violation are as follows:
Second Violation: $100
Third Violation: $200
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $400
Q: What is an "I: Six or more hours without a break" violation?
A: If a minor 14 through 17 years of age works six or more hours in a shift, the employer is required to provide the minor with one or two breaks totaling at least 30 minutes. These breaks may be taken at any point during the minor's shift. Indiana Administrative Code 610 IAC 10-3-1 requires that break logs be maintained by the employer to document all paid and unpaid breaks provided to minor employees.
The penalties for an "I" violation are as follows:
A: If a minor 14 through 17 years of age works six or more hours in a shift, the employer is required to provide the minor with one or two breaks totaling at least 30 minutes. These breaks may be taken at any point during the minor's shift. Indiana Administrative Code 610 IAC 10-3-1 requires that break logs be maintained by the employer to document all paid and unpaid breaks provided to minor employees.
The penalties for an "I" violation are as follows:
Second Violation: $100
Third Violation: $200
Fourth and Subsequent Violations: $400
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