Youths Now Can Apply for Work Permits Online

The N.C. Department of Labor is encouraging businesses and teens to use a new online program to apply for work permits as the summer hiring season approaches.

Last year the department launched a computerized program—called YEC Auto—that allows employers and school-age teenagers to get youth employment certificates online.

“We really want youths and businesses to take advantage of the new program, especially during the summer when many teens are hired,” said Henry Sasser, deputy administrator of the Wage and Hour Bureau. “It’s easier and quicker for the employer, youths and parents.”

The new program eliminates the waiting period to see if the proposed workplace is allowed under the state’s child labor laws. Approval now is available within a matter of minutes through the online process.

“We hope this process will help to reduce the number of child labor law violations,” Sasser said.

Youth employment laws require anyone under 18 to have a youth employment certificate. The permit ensures youths are not working in hazardous or detrimental occupations. Work hours also are restricted for 14- and 15-year-olds.

A complete list of job restrictions is available on the NCDOL Web site at http://www.nclabor.com/wh/fact sheets/joint_state_fed.htm. North Carolina youth employment laws do not apply to government, agriculture or domestic workers.

The Department of Labor issued more than 73,000 youth employment certificates in 2005. The department revoked 226 permits from employers who failed to meet child labor law requirements.

To get a work permit, go to the NCDOL Web site, click on “Work Permits,” and follow the instructions for submitting the form.

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