For students aged 14 to 17 living in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania law requires they obtain a work permit (working papers) before starting any job.
Required Documents
Before applying, ensure you have the following ready:
- Proof of Age (original document showing date of birth):
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Driver’s license or state ID
- School ID
- Baptismal record
- Form: Completed Application for Employment Certificate (signed by a parent or legal guardian).
- Attestation Document: Signed acknowledgement of Pennsylvania Child Labor Laws.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Verify Age Eligibility: Must be 14-17 years old. Minors under 14 generally cannot obtain a standard work permit in Pennsylvania. Minors aged 14-17 must complete this process before their first day on the job.
2. Gather Your Documents:Bring original proof of age. Collect one eligible proof-of-age document (e.g. birth certificate or passport) along with your filled-out application signed by a parent/guardian.
3. Submit Application in Person:Parent/guardian signature required. Visit an authorized issuing site to present your documents in person. The student must be present to sign the final permit in front of the issuing officer.
Where to Apply & Contact Info
- Main Location:School District of Philadelphia Education Center440 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130
- Phone: (215) 400-6007
- Hours & Secondary Locations: Call ahead to confirm walk-in hours and to check for authorized neighborhood school application sites near you.
Pennsylvania Child Labor Laws: Maximum Hours Allowed
| Age Group | During School Term | Summer / Vacation |
| Ages 14-15 | • Max 3 hrs/day (Mon–Fri) • Max 8 hrs/day (Weekends) • Max 18 hrs/week • Hours: 7 AM – 7 PM | • Max 8 hrs/day • Max 40 hrs/week • Hours: 7 AM – 9 PM |
| Ages 16-17 | • Max 8 hrs/day • Max 28 hrs/week (Mon–Fri) • Hours: 6 AM – 12 AM | • Max 10 hrs/day • Max 48 hrs/week • Hours: 6 AM – 1 AM |
Note: All minors are required to take a 30-minute break for every 5 consecutive hours of work.