Alaska Application for Minor Work Permit

If a prospective employer would like to hire an underage employee, federal law dictates that a work permit may need to be issued. This process will ensure that a child will not be working in hazardous occupations, will be paid at least minimum wage, will be limited in the hours per week they work, and a parent or legal guardian is aware and approves of the employment. Ensuring that child labor laws are followed closely, and that children are not improperly exploited is important, however, in developing a work ethic and providing means for children to earn money, it is important to be able to enable certain exceptions - for example, in Alaska, children under 14 may work in newspaper sales and delivery, babysitting, handiwork and domestic employment in or about private homes, and as an entertainer (subject to federal regulations). All minors 14, 15, 16 years of age must have an approved work permit. Some employers may also require permits for 17 year olds under federal law. The hours of working by minors are tightly regulated, as is the conditions under which they regulate - for example, children may not work around alcohol without a special license from the Alaska Alcohol Beverage Control Board, and are entitled to 30-minute breaks throughout a work shift.