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New Hampshire Child Labor

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As an employer in

New Hampshire, what child labor laws should I be aware of?

New Hampshire has some of the most restrictive child labor laws in the nation.

In many parts of the U.S., young people aged 16 and over can work with few restrictions. That is not true in

New Hampshire. 

New Hampshire is one of several states that require anyone under the age of 16 to have a work permit. The work permit is formally known as the “New Hampshire Youth Employment Certificate”.  These documents are issued by the State Department of Labor. Copies of the work permit must be on file before the young person starts working, and must remain on file at all times. It is the employer’s responsibility to maintain these records.

In addition, no one aged 16 or 17 can be employed in New Hampshire unless the employer keeps a signed, written document giving permission for the youth to work. The document must be signed by the youth’s parent, or legal guardian. Copies of the letter must be on file before the first day of employment. 

There are a number of exceptions to this rule. A young person may work for his or her parents, grandparents or guardian without a work permit or authorization document. In addition, young people can engage in “casual” or farm labor without documentation. Casual labor is frequently defined as doing errands and chores such as occasional babysitting, dog walking or raking leaves. Farm work often involves harvesting crops or other agricultural work. 

Federal child labor laws are provided in part under the FLSA, the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. This is the same law that established the first minimum wage and the overtime wage. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, youths who are under the age of 18 are specifically prohibited from certain occupations that are dangerous. These include operating heavy machinery, and working at heights, among others.