Arizona law places strict limitations on the employment of minors, particularly those aged 14 and 15. These laws are designed to ensure that minors can work in a safe environment that does not interfere with their education, health, or well-being. Employers should ensure compliance with hour restrictions and job eligibility rules to avoid potential penalties and legal issues. Keep reading to learn more.
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
Arizona labor laws concerning minors largely mirror the provisions set out by the FLSA. Under federal law, the minimum age for employment is generally 14 years. The FLSA establishes clear limitations on the hours and types of work that minors under the age of 16 can perform. The U.S. Department of Labor strictly enforces these limitations.
Work Permits in Arizona
Unlike some states, Arizona does not require work permits for minors. However, employers are still responsible for ensuring that the employment of minors complies with both state and federal regulations. Employers should keep proof of the minor’s age (such as a birth certificate or state-issued ID) on file in case of a labor audit.
Hour Restrictions for 14- and 15-Year-Olds
Both federal and Arizona law limit the number of hours 14- and 15-year-old employees may work. These restrictions are stricter when school is in session:
When school is in session, such employees can work:
- No more than three hours on a school day
- No more than 18 hours in a school week
- Working hours between 6:00 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. on days preceding a school day
When school is not in session (e.g., summer break):
- Up to 8 hours per day
- Up to 40 hours per week
- Permissible work hours from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
These hour limitations are not waivable. They are designed to ensure that a minor’s school attendance and academic performance are not compromised by employment.
Permissible Occupations
The types of jobs that 14- and 15-year-olds may perform are also limited. These minors are only permitted to engage in work that the Department of Labor classifies as “non-hazardous” and “age-appropriate.”
Permitted jobs include:
- Office and clerical work (e.g., filing, typing)
- Retail sales (e.g., cashiering, bagging, stocking shelves)
- Food service (e.g., bussing tables, cashiering, serving food, limited food prep)
- Tutoring and basic instructional services
- Lifeguarding (if properly certified and not at hazardous water facilities)
- Yard work (excluding the use of power-driven equipment)
Minors cannot perform jobs that feature:
- Use of power-driven machinery (e.g., lawnmowers, slicers)
- Construction work
- Manufacturing and warehousing
- Working in freezers or meat coolers
- Handling explosives or dangerous chemicals
- Boiler, furnace, or engine rooms
These restrictions aim to eliminate workplace hazards for younger workers who are not yet physically or mentally mature enough to handle them safely.
Wage Requirements
Arizona’s minimum wage law applies to most workers regardless of age. As of 2025, the state minimum wage is $14.70 per hour.
Employers in Arizona typically pay the standard minimum wage to avoid legal and administrative issues tied to wages.
The Arizona Industrial Commission’s Labor Department is responsible for enforcing state labor laws, while the U.S. Department of Labor enforces federal standards.
Penalties for Employers Who Violate Minor Labor Laws
Employers who violate minor labor laws can face:
- Civil penalties
- Fines of up to $11,000 per employee under federal law
- Lawsuits and reputational damage
In addition, Arizona law imposes state-level fines of up to $1,000 per violation. Employers may also face reputational harm and legal liability.
Contact a Phoenix Employment Lawyer at Houk Employment Attorneys to Arrange a Consultation
Employing 14- and 15-year-olds in Arizona involves strict compliance with state and federal labor laws. If you have questions about the process for employing such individuals, you should consult with an experienced Phoenix employment lawyer.
Houk Law Firm offers a confidential consultation to help you understand your options, call us at 480-569-2377.
Our employment law firm is conveniently located near you, with an office in Phoenix, AZ.
Houk Employment Attorneys
631 N 1st Ave Suite 101, Phoenix, AZ 85003
(480) 569-2377
