Work Permits

A minor has no right to work outside of his/her place of residence in Pennsylvania.  The Child Labor Law (CLL) was enacted to "provide for the health, safety, and welfare of minors by forbidding their employment or work in certain establishments and occupations, and under certain specified ages."  The CLL requires minors to obtain work permits prior to beginning work.  This law covers work in any establishment other than the minor's residence, except for farm work or domestic service in a private home.  The parent/guardian must apply for the permit for their minor child.

 

State College Area School District (SCASD) is the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) agent for work permits for minors ages 14–17 years old who live in the district.  SCASD has moved the application process online, although an in-person application can be arranged by appointment.  Both parent/guardian and minor must electronically sign the application.  Normally, the application information can be confirmed through school records, the application approved, and then a work permit will be mailed to the minor in care of the applying parent/guardian at the parent/guardian's address.  We will only contact you if there are any questions regarding the given information.

 

A Work Permit cannot be applied for or issued before the minor's 14th birthdate.  Once issued, the Work Permit remains valid until the minor reaches the age of majority at 18 unless there is a change in name or residence which voids the permit.  However, Work Permits can be revoked by either the issuing school district for violation of PA compulsory school attendance laws or academic jeopardy or failure; or by the parent/guardian withdrawing consent for the minor to work.  By completing and submitting an application, both parent/guardian and student acknowledge this possibility and consent to SCASD contacting employers if the permit is revoked or suspended.

  

Students registered in SCASD schools do not need additional proof of age; however, work permits can only be mailed to an address on file in district records.  If the minor is not registered in the district, the parent/guardian must provide proof of the minor's age and relationship along with a copy of the parent's/guardian's government-issued identification showing their address of residence.