How Late Can a Minor Work? (Hour Rules for Under-18s)
Scheduling a 16-year-old for the closing shift? The answer to 'how late can they work' depends on age, whether school is in session, and your state — and the stricter rule always wins.
Federal limits for 14–15-year-olds
During the school year: no work during school hours, no more than 3 hours on a school day and 18 hours in a school week, and only between 7 AM and 7 PM. In summer (June 1 through Labor Day) the evening limit extends to 9 PM and caps rise to 8 hours a day, 40 a week.
16–17-year-olds
Federal law sets no hour or curfew limits at 16 and 17 — only a ban on hazardous occupations. But many states do impose school-night curfews (often 10 or 11 PM before a school day) and weekly caps for 16–17-year-olds, so the state rule usually governs the closing shift.
Compliance basics
Keep proof of age on file, check whether your state requires a work permit, and set hard scheduling limits so a minor can't be accidentally scheduled past curfew. A time clock that flags minors' hours catches the violation before it happens instead of at the audit.
FAQ
How late can a 16-year-old work on a school night?
Federal law sets no limit at 16, but many states impose a 10–11 PM school-night curfew. Check your state's rule — the stricter standard applies.
How many hours can a 15-year-old work?
On school days: max 3 hours, 18 per school week, between 7 AM and 7 PM. In summer: up to 8 hours a day and 40 a week, until 9 PM.
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