To work in Missouri, it is expected that any minor aged 14-15 must have a Missouri work permit. Generally, children younger than 14 are not allowed to work at all, unless it is in the entertainment industry, but that will also require a permit.
Also, certain industries are off-limits to anyone under the age of 16, and a permit will not be granted.
So, let’s explore How to Get a Work Permit in Missouri and the steps you’ll need to take to get one!
Suitable Permit Work
Aged 14 or 15, you will be allowed to work in most retail positions, office work, maintenance, janitorial work, the food industry, and vehicle cleaning services.
Illegal Work For Minors Under 16
Door-to-door sales are strictly prohibited unless done for charitable causes such as churches, school fundraisers, or scouts. All jobs that require the use of hazardous equipment or operating heavy machinery are off-limits; this includes driving a car. No work where you risk “life and limb” is permitted.
You will also not be allowed to transport or handle explosives, ammunition, or alcohol. If you work in an establishment where alcohol is sold, it may not generate more than 50% of the income. Work at any hospitality establishment may not include work in any area where people sleep, such as hotel rooms.
Working Hours
There are very strict rules about working hours as well:
While school is in session
- You are not allowed to work before 07:00 am or after 07:00 pm.
- Working hours may not exceed eight hours on weekends or three hours on school days.
- You may not work more than six days a week.
While school is not in session
- You are not allowed to work before 07:00 am or after 09:00 pm.
- Working hours may not exceed eight hours in a day.
- You may not work more than six days a week.
- You may not work more than 40 hours a week.
How To Get Your Work Permit?
In Missouri, work permits are called “work certificates,” not “permits” like in other states.
Work certificates are issued by the superintendent of your school district, the CEO of the charter school you attend, your principal, or your parent if you are homeschooled. Whoever is to issue your certificate may refuse to do so or revoke it at any point, if they feel that the employment will not be in your best interest.
To get this certificate, you will need to submit the following information:
- A work offer from the prospective employer will clarify the job description and working hours.
- Written consent of your parent or guardian, some issuing officers may request that they be there in person.
- A birth certificate or other proof of your age.
- A recent report card or statement on your grades (not always required).
- A doctor’s note to clear you as fit to work (not always required).
Special Circumstances
The director of the Missouri Division of Labor Standards must issue work permits for anyone younger than 16, working in the entertainment industry. The rules are quite different, because as we know, child celebrities often get tutored on sets and have a very different work-life balance, as they have more flexible hours.
Children who work for their parents may do so if their parents remain in complete supervision of them at all times and do not do any of the jobs as deemed illegal for minors.
Other States You Might Like To Work In!
No matter where you live in the states, our website boasts endless in-depth guides that can help you, such as my How to Get a Work Permit in Massachusetts, my How to Get a Work Permit in Maryland, or for some sunshine, How to Get a Work Permit in California to help get you started.
Next, we move on to my How to Get a Work Permit in Illinois, and my How to Get a Work Permit in Arizona, How to Get a Work Permit in New Jersey, How to Get a Work Permit in New York, if you’re thinking of moving to the ‘Big Apple’ and finally is my How to Get a Work Permit in Nevada in 2023.
However, if you’re too young for a work permit and still looking to make extra cash, check out our How to Become a Teenage Survey Taker, How to Become a Teenage Dog Walker, along with info on Can Teens Work at Two Jobs or Good Jobs for Teens and knowing How Much Can a Teenager Work in a Week to make sure you stay within your regulations.
Final Thoughts
Your parents may allow you to work, but no one is allowed to force you to work.
If you feel at any point that your health and safety are at risk or you are being taken advantage of, you can file a complaint here.
All the very best with your first job!
References
Department of Labor, Missouri – Work certificates
