A minor needs an employment certificate or "working paper" as it is more commonly known, is required for all minors under the age of 18.
After obtaining a promise of employment, the child obtains a blank working paper from the issuing officer of the local school district where the minor resides. If the minor is not a New Jersey resident, the paper can be obtained from the district in which the minor has obtained a promise of employment.
The child takes the form to the employer who is responsible for completing the promise of employment information. This information includes the employer's name and address, type of business, specific job title or duties, rate of pay, whether the business is licensed for liquor, etc.
The child is then responsible for having a physical or obtaining a doctor's note. (A single physical is acceptable for four years.) The working paper along with the medical documentation and proof of age are taken back to the school where the school district information is completed. A copy of the completed form is given to the child to provide to the employer. The issuing officer retains a copy and a copy is sent to the State for review.
The type of work and hours of work vary depending upon the age of the minor. Minors may perform as theatrical workers at any age in New Jersey. Minors may begin work in newspaper delivery at age 11. Minors may begin to work in agriculture at age 12 performing work in various aspects of farming. Minors age 14 and 15 have more choices and are able to perform work in offices, hotels, restaurants, retail stores, etc. However, if the business is licensed for alcohol, the minor cannot work there until age 16 and is limited to specific jobs that do not involve preparing, serving or selling alcoholic beverages.
The restrictions are less for minors age 16 and 17 however; there are still occupations from which they are prohibited. See the web site listed below for more information and for links to publications directed toward the employer, the worker, and the parent. If you are unsure whether you are able to employ a minor in your business, or you need more information about the child labor laws and regulations, please call the Division at 609-292-2305.
http://lwd.state.nj.us/labor/wagehour/content/child_labor.html
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