High School & Middle School Work Permits

Work Permits for Minors

Under Public Act 90 of 1978, the Youth Employment Standards Act (YESA), as amended, a "minor" is defined as anyone under the age of 18. This includes, but is not limited to, employees, volunteers, independent contractors, and performing artists.

Minors under 18 must obtain a work permit or a written agreement between the employer and the relevant school district, public school academy, or nonpublic school before they can begin working. Work permits can be issued by the school district the minor attends or the district where the minor will be employed. If the minor changes employers, a new work permit is required. A work permit can also be revoked due to poor academic performance. This requirement applies even if the minor is homeschooled (including cyber/virtual/online schooling), does not attend school, or is an out-of-state resident.

For more details about YESA, visit Michigan.gov.

Who Needs a Work Permit (Including for Summer Employment)

Any minor under the age of 18 must obtain a work permit before starting employment.

Minors cannot be employed, volunteer, or work for pay until the employer has secured and kept on file a valid, age-appropriate work permit issued by a Michigan school issuing officer. This applies to any business, company, firm, or corporation intending to hire the minor. The permit must be issued by the school district, intermediate school district, public school academy, or nonpublic school the minor attends, and must be obtained before any work begins.

Work Permit Forms

Minors Under 16 Permit
Minors 16-17 Permit

Instructions

Section 1. The student and their parent/guardian must complete this section. All fields must be completed before submitting the form to the school.

Section 2. Must be filled out by the employer. All fields must be completed, including a description of the job duties and hours of employment. The hours must fall within the guidelines approved by the state of Michigan. If the proposed hours fall outside the standard limits, the employer must include a Department of Labor deviation form with the current expiration date.

Section 3. Once Sections I and II are fully completed, students can submit the form to the main office for Section 3. to be filled out.