Child Labor Laws in Illinois
Illinois (IL) · Child labor laws · Last reviewed June 2026
Min working age
14 (most jobs)
Work permit
Often required
Hour limits
Strict under 16
Federal rules (FLSA)
Federal law sets the floor: 14 is the minimum age for most non-farm jobs. 14- and 15-year-olds face strict limits — no work during school hours, capped daily and weekly totals, and no late evenings. 16- and 17-year-olds have no federal hour limits but can't perform jobs deemed hazardous. At 18, restrictions end.
Minors in Illinois
Illinois has its own child-labor rules, and where the state and federal rules differ, the stricter one applies. Many states require a work permit (employment certificate) for minors and set their own school-week hour caps. Confirm Illinois's permit requirement and hour limits with the state labor office.
Staying compliant
Keep proof of age and any required work permits on file, and schedule minors within their hour limits — especially the school-week caps. A time clock that flags a minor's hours helps prevent accidental violations.
Official sources
More Illinois guides
Child labor laws in other states
Illinois child labor laws: frequently asked questions
What is the minimum working age in Illinois?
Federal law sets 14 for most non-farm jobs, and Illinois follows at least that floor. Some roles (family business, agriculture) allow younger workers under specific conditions.
Do minors need a work permit in Illinois?
Many states require an employment certificate (work permit) for workers under 18 — confirm Illinois's requirement and keep it on file.
How many hours can a minor work in Illinois?
14–15-year-olds face strict federal caps (limited hours, not during school, no late nights). 16–17-year-olds have no federal hour limit, but Illinois may add its own — the stricter rule applies.
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