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ME · work permit how-to

Maine minor work permit — how to apply

Maine requires a state-issued work permit for most working minors. This page walks through what the permit is, who issues it, what documents you need, how long it takes, and what to do if the application is denied — drawn from the Maine state code and the issuing agency's published guidance.

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Quick facts

Permit required
Yes
Min general work age
14
Permit applies to ages
14–15
Issued by
Local school superintendent (Work Permit)
Form
Maine Work Permit

How to apply for a Maine work permit

  1. Confirm the minor's age is within the permit scope

    In Maine, the work permit applies to minors ages 14 through 15. Outside that range, either no permit is required (older minors) or general employment is prohibited (younger). The state's minimum general work age is 14.

  2. Obtain Maine Work Permit

    Minors 14-15 obtain a Work Permit from their school superintendent. The minor presents the employer's Statement of Intent to Employ along with proof of age and parental consent. The permit is job-specific. 16- and 17-year-olds do not need a permit but must keep age verification on file with the employer.

  3. Gather the supporting documents the issuer needs

    Most Maine issuers require: (1) proof of age (birth certificate, passport, or driver's license), (2) a written job offer or employer's statement of intent describing the duties and schedule, (3) a parent or guardian signature, and (4) for school-age minors, a signature from the school confirming the schedule does not conflict with attendance. Confirm specifics with Local school superintendent (Work Permit) before submitting.

  4. Submit and wait for processing

    Typical turnaround in Maine is a few business days when the file is complete; longer if the school year is in session or the issuer requests additional verification. The permit is tied to the specific minor and often to the specific employer — a new job usually means a new permit application.

  5. Keep the permit on file at the workplace

    Once issued, Maine expects the employer to keep the original (or a verified copy) on file at the worksite for inspection. Federal recordkeeping rules require the file be retained for at least 3 years after the minor's employment ends.

  6. If the application is denied

    Common reasons: incomplete documents, scheduling that violates age-band hour caps, or duties that fall under the federal hazardous orders or a state-restricted occupations list. Fix the underlying issue and resubmit. Local school superintendent (Work Permit) can typically explain which specific element of the application triggered the denial.

Official Maine resources

Statute

Maine Revised Statutes Title 26 Chapter 7 (§§ 771-781) (Employment of Minors)

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