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MI · work permit how-to

Michigan minor work permit — how to apply

Michigan 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 Michigan 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
14–17
Issued by
School issuing officer (chief administrator)
Form
Combined Application/Permit/Parental Consent for Minor (Form CA-6 or CA-7)

How to apply for a Michigan work permit

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

    In Michigan, the work permit applies to minors ages 14 through 17. 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 Combined Application/Permit/Parental Consent for Minor (Form CA-6 or CA-7)

    The employer issues a Promise of Employment; the minor's school administrator countersigns the combined application/work-permit form (CA-6 for minors 14-15, CA-7 for 16-17). A parent or guardian must sign. The permit is job-specific and must be reissued for each new employer.

  3. Gather the supporting documents the issuer needs

    Most Michigan 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 School issuing officer (chief administrator) before submitting.

  4. Submit and wait for processing

    Typical turnaround in Michigan 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, Michigan 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. School issuing officer (chief administrator) can typically explain which specific element of the application triggered the denial.

Official Michigan resources

Statute

Michigan Youth Employment Standards Act, MCL §§ 409.101-409.124

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