Skip to main content
Teenwork
Español

OR · work permit how-to

Oregon minor work permit — how to apply

Oregon 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 Oregon 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
14–17
Issued by
Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) — employer applies
Form
Annual Employment Certificate to Employ Minors

How to apply for a Oregon work permit

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

    In Oregon, 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 Annual Employment Certificate to Employ Minors

    Oregon uses an employer-based permit: the employer applies online with BOLI for an annual Employment Certificate covering all minor employees at that worksite. The certificate must be renewed yearly. Individual minors do not apply, but the employer must keep age verification on file for each.

  3. Gather the supporting documents the issuer needs

    Most Oregon 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 Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) — employer applies before submitting.

  4. Submit and wait for processing

    Typical turnaround in Oregon 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, Oregon 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. Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) — employer applies can typically explain which specific element of the application triggered the denial.

Official Oregon resources

Statute

Oregon Revised Statutes §§ 653.305-653.370 (Employment of Minors)

Related