Washington
Child Labor Laws for Family Businesses
Last updated: January 1, 2026
Min. Wage: $16.66/hr (2026)No Broad Exemption
- Follows federal parental exemption.
- Washington does not classify married or parenting minors as minors for child labor purposes.
- Agricultural: 12+ for hand-harvesting berries, bulbs, cucumbers, spinach.
14 years old for most non-agricultural work.
Exceptions:
- No state minimum when employed by parent (follows federal parental exemption).
Under 14
- Generally may not work.
Ages 14-15
- Max 3 hrs on school days (8 hrs Sat/Sun), 8 hrs on non-school days.
- Max 16 hrs during school weeks, 40 hrs during non-school weeks.
- Max 6 days/week.
Ages 16-17
- Non-school: 8 hrs/day, 48 hrs/week.
- School: 4 hrs/day, 20 hrs/week (6 hrs/day, 28 hrs/week with additional consents).
- 6 days/week.
Permits Required
- Minor work permits required.
- Washington has a specific process for hiring youth under 14.
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 and the U.S. Department of Labor.
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