Skip to main content
Teenwork
Español

ND · work permit how-to

North Dakota minor work permit — how to apply

North Dakota 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 North Dakota state code and the issuing agency's published guidance.

Last verified:

Quick facts

Permit required
Yes
Min general work age
14
Permit applies to ages
14–15
Issued by
North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights (online)
Form
Age Certificate (Form L-26)

How to apply for a North Dakota work permit

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

    In North Dakota, 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 Age Certificate (Form L-26)

    Minors 14-15 obtain an Age Certificate through the ND Department of Labor and Human Rights online portal. The minor presents proof of age and parental consent; the certificate is electronic and not job-specific (valid until age 16). 16- and 17-year-olds do not need a certificate.

  3. Gather the supporting documents the issuer needs

    Most North Dakota 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 North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights (online) before submitting.

  4. Submit and wait for processing

    Typical turnaround in North Dakota 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, North Dakota 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. North Dakota Department of Labor and Human Rights (online) can typically explain which specific element of the application triggered the denial.

Official North Dakota resources

Statute

North Dakota Century Code Chapter 34-07 (Employment of Children)

Related