Last update: June 10, 2023
Minimum Hiring Age in Texas
What is the minimum age to be employed in Texas? The legal age to work in Texas 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
It is illegal to employ a child under age 14 except under specific circumstances.
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 Texas:
| Beer | Wine | Spirits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serve | 18 | 18 | 18 |
| Bartend | 18 | 18 | 18 |
Work Hours
State law states that 14- and 15- year olds:
- Can work no more than 8 hours in one day.
- Can work no more than 48 hours in one week.
- Cannot go to work before 5 a.m.
- Cannot work after 10 p.m. on a day that is followed by a school day, including summer school sessions when applicable.
- Cannot work past midnight on a day that is not followed by a school day.
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:
10 p.m. (midnight before non-school day or in summer if not enrolled in summer school) to 5 a.m.
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 not required. Age certificate for minors under 18 may be required by employers.
Minimum Wages
The minimum wages in Texas is $7.25. 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.