Skip to main content
Teenwork
Español

WA · work permit how-to

Washington minor work permit — how to apply

Washington 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 Washington 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
Employer (registers as a minor-work employer with WA L&I) plus parent/school authorization
Form
Parent/School Authorization for a Minor to Work

How to apply for a Washington work permit

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

    In Washington, 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 Parent/School Authorization for a Minor to Work

    Washington does not issue a state work permit to the minor. Instead, the employer must register as a minor-work employer with the WA Department of Labor & Industries and obtain a signed Parent/School Authorization form from the minor's parent or guardian (and school, if school is in session). The form must be kept on file at the worksite.

  3. Gather the supporting documents the issuer needs

    Most Washington 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 Employer (registers as a minor-work employer with WA L&I) plus parent/school authorization before submitting.

  4. Submit and wait for processing

    Typical turnaround in Washington 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, Washington 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. Employer (registers as a minor-work employer with WA L&I) plus parent/school authorization can typically explain which specific element of the application triggered the denial.

Official Washington resources

Statute

Washington Administrative Code WAC 296-125 (Child Labor Rules)

Related