Many young people in Colorado are eager to gain independence, earn money, and build experience. But before jumping into the workforce, it’s essential to understand the legal requirements around employment for minors. If you’re asking what is the youngest age to get a job in Colorado, you’ll need to consider both federal labor laws and Colorado state regulations.
In Colorado, minors as young as 14 can work, but there are limits on the types of jobs, the number of hours, and the need for school and parental consent. Sometimes, even younger children may work in specific entertainment or agricultural roles with additional permissions.
This comprehensive guide covers every aspect of minor employment in the state, including when and how teens can start working, what permits they might need, the kinds of jobs they’re allowed to do, and how employers must comply with labor laws. Whether you’re a teen looking for your first job or a parent wanting to help your child start responsibly, this article will answer all your questions about what is the youngest age to get a job in Colorado.
What is the youngest age to get a job in Colorado?
In Colorado, the youngest age you can get a job is 14 for most industries. Younger teens can work in entertainment or agriculture with proper permits.
Legal Working Age in Colorado – What Parents and Teens Need to Know
When it comes to answering what is the youngest age to get a job in Colorado, the general rule is age 14, but there are important exceptions. Under the Colorado Youth Employment Opportunity Act (CYEOA), teens aged 14 to 17 may legally work. However, there are clear restrictions on the types of jobs they can hold and how many hours they’re allowed to work, especially during school days. Children under 14 can only work in limited roles, such as delivering newspapers, working in family-owned businesses (excluding manufacturing), participating in agricultural jobs, or appearing in the entertainment industry, and only with the appropriate permits.
Federal law, specifically the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), also establishes 14 as the minimum age for most non-agricultural employment, but Colorado can—and often does—enforce more restrictive rules. For instance, children cannot work during school hours, and those under 16 are often limited in how late or long they can work.
Understanding what is the youngest age to get a job in Colorado also involves knowing whether a teen has met all legal requirements, such as obtaining parental consent, school verification, or a work permit, and whether the job respects state and federal labor protections.
Requirements and Permits for Minors Seeking Employment in Colorado
Several legal requirements and protections apply before teens in Colorado can start working. Understanding the rules around age limits, permits, and employer responsibilities is essential for a safe and lawful job experience.
Age-Based Requirements
In Colorado, the general minimum age to begin working is 14. However, children under 14 may still be employed in limited capacities, such as in agriculture, entertainment, or family-owned non-industrial businesses. These roles typically require a special permit and are subject to additional oversight to ensure appropriate and safe work.
Work Permits and School Release
While Colorado does not mandate work permits for all minors, many employers require some form of documentation, especially for those under 16. A school release may also be necessary if a minor plans to work during school hours. This ensures that education remains a priority and helps the school monitor the students’ academic standing.
Parental and School Involvement
Parental involvement is often essential during the application process. Parents may need to approve job offers and ensure their child complies with educational and legal expectations. Schools may sometimes be asked to verify attendance records or academic performance before granting permission to work.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers hiring minors must follow strict guidelines, including verifying age, recording work hours, and adhering to child labor laws. They are responsible for creating a safe work environment that does not include hazardous tasks or violate hourly restrictions.
Prohibited Job Types for Minors
Colorado prohibits minors from working in jobs involving heavy machinery, toxic substances, or late-night delivery services. These positions are considered unsafe and are strictly regulated to protect young workers from unnecessary risk.
Typical Jobs and Restrictions for Colorado Teens
Colorado teens have a variety of entry-level job options, but their choices are limited based on their age and the state’s child labor laws. These jobs allow teens to earn money, gain experience, and develop responsibility while ensuring their education and safety remain top priorities.
Popular job options for teens include:
Grocery store clerk – Stocking shelves, bagging groceries, or collecting carts.
Fast food crew member – Taking orders, running the register, or assisting in the kitchen with non-hazardous equipment.
Lawn care helper – Yardwork like mowing or raking, using manual tools, and proper supervision.
Babysitting or pet sitting – Private, freelance roles not regulated by FLSA but still popular for responsible teens.
Lifeguard – Starting at age 15 with proper certification and CPR training.
Camp counselor or rec aide – Seasonal or summer roles for older teens in local programs or camps.
State-imposed restrictions include:
No more than 3 hours of work on a school day.
A weekly cap of 18 hours during the school year.
No work during regular school hours unless officially permitted.
No working past 9 p.m. for minors under 16.
These regulations ensure that young workers in Colorado maintain a healthy balance between school responsibilities and part-time employment.
How Federal and State Laws Shape Youth Employment
When exploring what is the youngest age to get a job in Colorado, it’s essential to understand how both federal and state labor laws apply. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) allows minors as young as 14 to work in specific non-agricultural roles, but Colorado goes a step further by enforcing more restrictive rules. In Colorado, teens under 16 face limitations on how many hours they can work, especially during school days, and must avoid hazardous jobs altogether. Tasks involving machinery, roofing, or demolition are strictly prohibited for younger workers.
Because Colorado’s child labor laws are more protective than federal standards, employers must follow whichever rule is stricter. These laws are in place to support academic success, promote safety, and ensure age-appropriate job duties. Whether you’re a parent, teen, or employer, understanding how federal and Colorado labor laws intersect is key to navigating youth employment legally and responsibly in the state.
What Teens and Parents Should Know Before Starting Work
Before entering the workforce, teens and their parents should be informed about key aspects of youth employment in Colorado. From legal protections to personal development, here are the most important things to keep in mind:
Ensure Employer Legitimacy: Parents should guide teens in evaluating job offers, checking that businesses are legitimate and follow state labor regulations. Avoiding sketchy employers helps prevent legal or financial issues.
Final Thoughts
To wrap up, understanding what is the youngest age to get a job in Colorado involves more than just knowing the number—it requires familiarity with the rules, permits, and protections in place. While 14 is generally the minimum age for employment, younger children may work in limited roles like entertainment or agriculture if properly permitted. Teens must comply with strict hour limits, avoid hazardous duties, and sometimes need parental or school approval. Employers also carry the legal responsibility to uphold state labor laws. For parents and young job seekers, knowing these requirements ensures a smooth and safe path to early employment, promoting growth and legal compliance from the very first paycheck.
FAQ’s
Can a 12-year-old work in Colorado?
Yes, but only in minimal roles such as entertainment, agriculture, or a family-owned business, and only if proper permits and supervision are in place.
Do teens need a work permit in Colorado?
Not always required by law, but many employers request age verification or a school release form, especially for workers under 16.
Can a 14-year-old work full-time in Colorado?
No. Teens aged 14–15 are limited to 3 hours on school days and 18 hours per week during the school year, to ensure school remains a priority.
What jobs are off-limits for minors in Colorado?
Minors cannot work in jobs that involve hazardous equipment, construction, roofing, excavation, or late-night delivery due to safety concerns.
Are teens entitled to breaks during work?
Yes. Teens must receive at least a 30-minute uninterrupted meal break after 5 consecutive hours of work, ensuring rest and compliance with labor laws.
Time Management for Students: Balancing academics and work is essential. Teens should select jobs that don’t interfere with school hours or lead to late nights that may affect rest and academic performance.
Safe and Suitable Job Duties: Parents should ensure that any job their teen takes is age-appropriate and does not expose them to hazardous equipment or high-stress environments. Employers are legally obligated to provide a safe setting.
Know Your Rights as a Young Worker: Teen workers in Colorado are entitled to fair pay, proper breaks, and protections against unsafe conditions. Understanding these rights helps prevent workplace abuse and exploitation.
Skill Development for the Future: Even part-time or entry-level jobs can offer valuable experience. Teens learn responsibility, problem-solving, communication, and time management—skills that will serve them well into adulthood.
