Overview of Child Labor Laws in Maryland
Maryland has implemented robust child labor laws to safeguard minors from exploitation, ensure safe working conditions, and prevent interference with their education. These laws are governed by both state statutes and federal regulations under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The Division of Labor and Industry within the Maryland Department of Labor oversees compliance, monitors workplace practices, and enforces penalties for violations.
Employers must follow strict rules regarding minimum working ages, permitted job types, work hours, and hazardous occupations, and must maintain accurate records for all minor employees. These regulations aim to strike a balance between opportunities for work experience and the protection of the minor’s health, safety, and academic progress.
Minimum Working Age in Maryland
- Under 14: Employment is generally prohibited. However, minors under 14 may work as models, performers, or entertainers with a special permit issued by the Commissioner’s Office.
- Ages 14–17: Must obtain a Minor Work Permit before commencing employment. This permit is job-specific, meaning a new permit is required if the minor changes employers.
- 18 and older: Considered adults under Maryland law and are not subject to child labor restrictions.
Work Permits for Minors
In Maryland, minors aged 14–17 must obtain a Minor Work Permit to be employed. The process includes:
- Job Offer: The minor must have a confirmed job offer before applying for a work permit.
- Application: The minor, along with their parent or guardian, must complete and submit the work permit application online through the Maryland Department of Labor’s website.
- Employer’s Role: The employer must sign the permit, confirming the job details and agreeing to comply with all applicable labor laws.
- Permit Validity: The work permit is specific to the employer and job. If the minor changes employers, a new permit must be obtained.
- Record-Keeping: Employers are encouraged to retain the work permit for a minimum of 3 years.
Hour Restrictions for Minors
Maryland imposes specific hour restrictions to ensure that minors’ employment does not interfere with their education:
| Age Group | School in Session | Non-School Days / Vacations | Allowed Work Hours |
| 14–15 | Minors may work up to 4 hours per school day and no more than 23 hours per week, without affecting their schooling. | On weekends, holidays, and school vacations, minors may work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week, allowing them to earn income while balancing rest and study time. | Work is permitted between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM, extended to 9:00 PM from Memorial Day through Labor Day to accommodate summer employment opportunities. |
| 16–17 | Minors may work up to 4 hours per school day and 23 hours per week, ensuring educational responsibilities remain a priority. | During non-school days or vacations, minors may work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week, offering flexibility for summer jobs or extended work opportunities. | Work hours are allowed from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM, extended to 11:00 PM from Memorial Day through Labor Day, giving older teens more flexibility while maintaining safe evening limits. |
Prohibited Jobs for Minors
Maryland law prohibits minors from engaging in certain hazardous occupations to ensure their safety:
- General Prohibitions:
- Minors are not permitted to work in manufacturing or mining.
- Minors may not work in hazardous occupations as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
- Minors are prohibited from operating certain types of machinery or equipment.
- Minors are prohibited from working in jobs that involve exposure to hazardous substances or environments.
- Specific Restrictions:
- Minors aged 14–15 are prohibited from working in certain establishments, including those that use power-driven machinery or equipment.
- Minors aged 16–17 are permitted to work in a broader range of jobs but are still restricted from hazardous occupations as defined by the FLSA.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Employers who violate Maryland’s child labor laws may face:
- Civil Penalties: Fines for each violation.
- Criminal Penalties: In cases of willful violations, criminal charges may be brought against the individual.
- Revocation of Work Permits: The Division of Labor and Industry may revoke or cancel work permits if they are found to violate the law.
HR Notifications and Documentation
Employers must maintain certain records to comply with Maryland’s child labor laws:
| Document | Retention Period | Storage Location | Update Schedule |
| Minor Work Permit | Duration of employment + 3 years | On-site, accessible | At hire or permit renewal |
| Age Verification Documents | Employment period + 3 years | Personnel file | At hire |
| Time & Payroll Records | At least 3 years | Payroll system | Weekly |
| Job Descriptions & Certificates | Duration of employment | On-site, accessible | Whenever duties change |
| Break/Meal Logs | As long as employed | HR/Production records | Daily |
| Inspection/Compliance Correspondence | As long as employed + 3 years | Compliance files | As issued |
Got questions?
In Maryland, minors under 14 are generally not permitted to work, except in limited exceptions such as modeling, entertainment, or family-run businesses with special permits. Minors aged 14–17 may work in approved jobs but must comply with state regulations regarding permits, hours, and job safety.
Yes. Any minor aged 14–17 must obtain a valid Minor Work Permit before beginning employment. The permit verifies the minor’s age, job type, and hours, and requires signatures from the minor, parent/guardian, and employer. Employers must keep the permit on file and renew it if the minor changes jobs.
Minors aged 14–15 may work up to 4 hours per school day and no more than 23 hours per week. On non-school days or during vacations, they may work longer hours, but all schedules must comply with Maryland’s strict hour limitations to protect the minor’s education and well-being.
Yes, but restrictions apply. When school is in session, 16–17-year-olds may work up to 4 hours per day. On non-school days or during summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day), they may work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week, typically until 10–11 PM, depending on the permit.
Minors are prohibited from hazardous roles, including those in manufacturing, mining, operating heavy machinery, or handling hazardous substances. Restrictions vary by age: 14– and 15-year-olds are allowed only limited safe jobs, while 16– and 17-year-olds may work in broader roles but remain barred from occupations deemed unsafe under state and federal laws.
