
At 15 in the U.S., to get a work permit, first secure a job offer, then get forms from your school or state labor office. You need parental consent, and in some states (like MA), a doctor’s note. The employer fills their part, and you submit everything to the school/district for the official permit, following rules on hours and hazardous work.

Work permits are usually issued by your school’s guidance office or state labor department. Counselors can provide applications and answer questions about eligibility, hours, and restrictions. You can also find applications and instructions online via your state labor department’s website, which details the process for minors seeking work.

Each U.S. state has its own rules for work permits, but typically you must submit an application with personal details like your Social number and date of birth, provide a recent physical or doctor’s note, present identification (birth certificate, passport, driver’s license, or state ID), and obtain a parent or guardian’s signature on the application to authorize employment.


