Last update: June 10, 2023
Minimum Hiring Age in Nebraska
What is the minimum age to be employed in Nebraska? The legal age to work in Nebraska is 14, but governed by state and federal child labor laws and varies based on:
- The type of work (e.g., agricultural or non-agricultural)
- Whether the job is considered hazardous or has prohibited duties.
- Whether school is in session.
- The legal status of the minor (e.g., emancipated minors).
- Whether the job is exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
According to Federal Law (FLSA), a minor must be at least 14 years old to work for an employer (e.g. retail stores, food service establishments and gasoline service stations), with an exception for minors working for a parent or legal guardian who owns the business. This is the reason why you will never see job postings for children under the age of 14.
Age Restrictions
None (19 years of age to work as a server in a restaurant that sells alcohol and to sell alcohol in retail stores)
Minimum age to drive motor vehicles (cars and small trucks) on public roads as part of jobs is basically 17 years old, with certain requirements.
Minimum age to serve and bartend alcohol in Nebraska:
| Beer | Wine | Spirits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serve | 19 | 19 | 19 |
| Bartend | 19 | 19 | 19 |
Work Hours
See federal law
Maximum daily and weekly hours and days per week for minors ages 14 and 15:
8-48
Nightwork prohibited for minors ages 14 and 15:
8 p.m. to 6 a.m., under 14. 10 p.m. (beyond 10 p.m. before non-school day with special permit) to 6 a.m., 14 and 15.
Maximum daily and weekly hours and days per week for ages 16 and 17:
Not regulated
Nightwork prohibited for ages 16 and 17:
Not regulated
Work Permit
Work permit is required for minors under 16. https://dol.nebraska.gov/webdocs/getfile/b37edf1b-ee74-45ee-a3e0-5079c461b2e3 Age certification is not required, but an age certificate is required by law to be provided on request for ages 16 and over.
Minimum Wages
The minimum wages in Nebraska is $10.50. FLSA allow employers to pay a youth minimum wage of not less than $4.25 an hour to employees who are under 20 years of age during the first 90 consecutive calendar days after initial employment.