Classification
Arizona child labor laws regulate the employment of minors (especially those under 18), specifying the types of work teens may do, the hours they may work, and the legal protections in place. Key points include:
Minimum Age to Work: Generally, children under 14 are restricted from working except in limited circumstances. Teens aged 14 and 15 may work limited hours and types of jobs, especially during school sessions. Teens 16 and 17 have fewer restrictions and can work more hours but must avoid hazardous jobs designated by law.
Hours Restrictions for 14- and 15-year-olds:
When school is in session: Up to 3 hours per day, 18 hours per week, and not later than 9:30 p.m. on school nights.
When school is out: Up to 8 hours per day, 40 hours per week, and not past 11:00 p.m.
No work before 6 a.m. any day.
Protect Safety and Health: Laws prevent youth from working in unsafe conditions or excessive hours that might harm their development or education.
Balance Work and Education: Restrictions ensure teens do not work so much that it interferes with schooling.
Prevent Exploitation: Protections reduce the risk of employers taking advantage of minors for labor.
Legal Compliance: Both teens and employers need to follow laws to avoid fines, penalties, or criminal charges.
Prepare for Future: Work experience helps teens develop responsibility and skills in safe, lawful ways.
Why It Matters
Protect Safety and Health: Laws prevent youth from working in unsafe conditions or excessive hours that might harm their development or education.
Balance Work and Education: Restrictions ensure teens do not work so much that it interferes with schooling.
Prevent Exploitation: Protections reduce the risk of employers taking advantage of minors for labor.
Legal Compliance: Both teens and employers need to follow laws to avoid fines, penalties, or criminal charges.
Prepare for Future: Work experience helps teens develop responsibility and skills in safe, lawful ways.
Why It Matters
What You Can Do
Know Your Rights and Limits: Understand the hours you can work based on your age and the kinds of jobs you can do.
Obtain Required Work Permits: If needed, get necessary permits before starting a job.
Choose Safe Jobs: Avoid hazardous work that is restricted for minors.
Talk to Your Parents or Guardians: Keep them informed about your job and working conditions.
Report Violations: If you feel the employer is breaking labor laws, talk to a trusted adult or contact the Arizona Industrial Commission.
Balance Work and School: Make sure your job does not interfere with education and rest.
Use Employment as a Positive Experience: Learn skills, be responsible, and develop a good work ethic for future success.