In the state of Indiana, there are particular regulations that govern the minimum age required to legally work, employment permits, and job limits for minors. In addition to guaranteeing that young workers are able to acquire useful job experience in a secure setting, these policies are structured to protect young workers.
The minimum age required to work in Indiana
14 years of age is the minimum age required to legally work in the state of Indiana. However, there are some jobs that are exempt from this rule. Some examples of these jobs include babysitting, delivering newspapers, and working on farms. These jobs may allow younger people to operate under particular conditions.
Who Is Required to Have a Work Permit?
The state of Indiana had formerly mandated that juveniles under the age of 18 get work permits; however, beginning July 1, 2021, the state has removed this requirement. Instead, employers are now required to register and report the employment of minors through the Youth Employment System (YES) that is administered by the Indiana Department of Labor.
Even if work permits are no longer required, employers are nevertheless required to adhere to certain regulations regulating the hours worked and the types of jobs available to young people.
Restricted Jobs for Minors
Indiana law prohibits minors from working in hazardous occupations that could endanger their health or safety. The following jobs are restricted for workers under 18:
- Manufacturing and mining jobs
- Jobs requiring exposure to dangerous machinery (e.g., saws, meat slicers, and power-driven hoisting equipment)
- Roofing and excavation work
- Working with explosives or hazardous chemicals
- Serving or handling alcohol (minors under 21 cannot serve alcohol, except in certain restaurants with a permit at 19)
Additional restrictions apply based on age. For instance, 14- and 15-year-olds are prohibited from working in construction, driving vehicles, or working in warehouses where forklifts are in operation.
Work Hour Limitations
The number of hours minors can work depends on their age and whether school is in session:
- 14- and 15-year-olds: Limited to 3 hours on school days and 8 hours on non-school days, with a maximum of 18 hours per school week and 40 hours per non-school week. They cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. (9 p.m. from June 1 to Labor Day).
- 16- and 17-year-olds: While they have more flexibility, they cannot work later than 10 p.m. on school nights or 11 p.m. on weekends. Special permission is required to work beyond these hours.
Conclusion
The labor regulations of Indiana ensure that minors are able to get work experience while yet having a life that is both safe and balanced. Despite the fact that work permits are no longer necessary, businesses are nevertheless expected to comply with employment standards in order to safeguard young workers. It is necessary for a youngster to have a thorough awareness of Indiana’s legal working age restrictions in order to ensure compliance and safety, regardless of whether they are seeking for a part-time employment or planning for future career options.
