Utah Child Labor Law

Last update: June 10, 2023

Minimum Hiring Age in Utah

What is the minimum age to be employed in Utah? The legal age to work in Utah is 10, 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

A minor under the age of 16 may not be employed or permitted to work during school hours except as authorized by the proper school authorities

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 Utah:

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Work Hours

A minor under the age of 16 may not be permitted to work: (a) before or after school in excess of four hours a day; (b) before 5:00 a.m. or after 9:30 p.m., unless the next day is not a school day; (c) in excess of eight hours in any 24-hour period; or (d) more than 40 hours in any week.

Maximum daily and weekly hours and days per week for minors ages 14 and 15:
8-40 school day: 4

Nightwork prohibited for minors ages 14 and 15:
9:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. before school day.

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 Utah 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.


Next reading: Find jobs for teens in Utah

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