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# Maryland

Child Labor Laws for Family Businesses

Last updated: July 15, 2025

Min. Wage: $15.00/hr (2025) 

[Maryland Department of Labor](https://labor.maryland.gov)

1.  [Home ](/)
2.  [State Labor Laws](/state-labor-laws/)
3.  Maryland 

### 

Family Business Exemptions Most Important 

Exemptions Available

-   Maryland makes an explicit exception for family businesses.
-   Minors under 14 are typically not permitted to work, but an exception is made for family businesses.

### 

Minimum Working Age 

14 years old for most non-agricultural work.

Exceptions:

-   No state minimum for family business (state exception for family businesses applies to under 14).

### 

Hours Restrictions 

Under 14

-   Generally may not work (family business exception exists).

Ages 14-15

-   Max 4 hrs on school days, 8 hrs on non-school days.
-   Max 23 hrs during school weeks, 40 hrs during non-school weeks.
-   Max 6 days/week.

Ages 16-17

-   Must have 8 consecutive hours of non-work, non-school time per 24-hour day.
-   Combined school + work max 12 hrs.

### 

Nightwork Restrictions 

### 

Permitted Job Types 

### 

Work Permit Requirements 

Permits Required

-   Work permit required for all minors.
-   Minor applies online, then parent/guardian signs.
-   Issued by school Issuing Officers or Division of Labor and Industry.

### 

Recordkeeping Requirements 

### 

Key Considerations 

This information is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change frequently. Always verify current requirements with your [state's Department of Labor](https://labor.maryland.gov) and the [U.S. Department of Labor](https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/child-labor).

## Nearby States

[VA Virginia ](/state-labor-laws/virginia/)[DC District of Columbia ](/state-labor-laws/district-of-columbia/)[WV West Virginia ](/state-labor-laws/west-virginia/)[PA Pennsylvania ](/state-labor-laws/pennsylvania/)[DE Delaware ](/state-labor-laws/delaware/)

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