Illinois Department of Labor Work Permits

The Illinois Department of Labor oversees the safety of minors in Illinois by regulating the employment of workers under 16 years of age. The law protects children by limiting working hours, prohibiting work in hazardous occupations, and requiring employment certificates (820 ILCS 205/1-22 Child Labor Law).

Items Needed for the Work Permit:

  1. Download and complete the Work Permit Application (PDF), filled out by both the student and employer.

  2. School Physical or copy of Sports Physical from within the last year.

  3. Copy of the student's birth certificate.
    Note: The student must be 14 or 15 years old.

  4. Letter from your school stating they are aware that you are working.

  5. Both the parent and student must be present at the ROE to issue the permit.