Work Permits

Work Permit Application
Illinois Child Labor Laws
Guidelines

Students under the age of 16 must obtain a work permit before beginning employment. Under the Illinois Child Labor Law, employers are required to secure and keep on file Employment Certificates (work permits) for all workers under age 16. The Regional Superintendent of Schools serves as the issuing officer on behalf of the Illinois Department of Labor. Work permits are issued once all legal requirements have been met (Section 12, Illinois Child Labor Law).

Below are the documents required to obtain a work permit.

Please make an appointment at one of our offices and bring all completed documents to the Regional Office of Education. An issuing officer will review them and issue the work permit.

Contact our office for an appointment >>
Resource for Parents & Families

Resource for Parents & Families

Please, bring the following to your appointment:

  • Completed Work Permit Application

    • Leave all signature lines unsigned, until a member of our staff can witness

  • Birth Certificate

  • Social Security Card 

  • Physical Fitness Form or School Health Physical - must be dated within one year of the date you are applying for work permit

  • Letter of intent to employ - Once you have a job offer, you must obtain a 'Letter of Intent to Hire' from the prospective employer. This letter should outline the minor's expected work hours and job duties.

  • Principal's Statement - to be completed by the school principal if the minor will be employed during the school year

  • Parent/Guardian Approval - Parent or Guardian State ID or Drivers License 

    • Parent or Guardian MUST be present at the time the application is filed under Section 205/12 of the Illinois Child Labor Law.

More Information

Child Labor Hotline: 800-645-5784

Child Labor Law Information: 312-793-2804

Administrative Code >>
Department of Labor >>