Get a job offer
To do👤 You
In Illinois, the permit is tied to a specific job, so you need an offer first.
Get a letter from your employer
To do🏪 Your new employer
Ask your manager for a letter of intent to hire (also called a statement of intention to employ). It describes the job you'll do and the hours you'll work.
Gather your documents
To do👨👩👧 You and your parent or guardian
The school will need to verify these before issuing your permit.
Visit your school office
To do👨👩👧 You and your parent or guardian
Work permits are issued by your school district or Regional Office of Education, not by the employer. A parent or guardian must apply with you.
School approves your permit
To do🏫 School issuing officer
The school official reviews your documents and the job, makes sure it isn't hazardous work, completes the certificate electronically and sends it to the Illinois Department of Labor.
Give it to your employer and start work
To do🏪 You and your employer
Your employer must keep a copy of your permit on file before you work. Then you're ready for day one.
Work Permit Badge earned!
Your paperwork is done. Next up: get ready for your first day.
See my badges →⏰ Hour limits (ages 14–15)
- School days3 hours max
- School + work combined8 hours max
- School weeks18 hours max
- Non-school weeks40 hours max
- Days per week6 max
- Work times7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
- June 1 – Labor Dayuntil 9 p.m.
- Break30 min after 5 hrs
Questions?
Call the Illinois Department of Labor Child Labor line at 800-645-5784, or visit their work permit page.
This guide summarizes Illinois rules under the Child Labor Law of 2024 as published by the Illinois Department of Labor. Rules can change and your school may have its own process, so always confirm with your school office. Not in Illinois? Check with your state's department of labor. More states coming soon.