Resources for Young Workers

The U.S. Department of Labor posts special webpages for young people, both for those old enough to work and those not old enough, that provide information on topics ranging from student volunteerism to job safety.

The federal government, including the Department of Labor, sponsors a wide variety of job training and job placement assistance programs for America's youth. The Department's Employment and Training Administration is the primary agency responsible for such programs.

Webpages on this Topic

Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) Resources for Youth
ODEP's focus on youth policy is aimed at improving transition outcomes of youth and young adults with disabilities toward successful employment and adulthood.

YouthRules!
Website that seeks to promote positive and safe work experiences for young workers.

What Hours Can Youth Work?
Specific information on permissible work hours for minor employees.

How Many Hours Can Young Workers Work?
Additional information on work hours.

How Many Hours Per Day Or Per Week Can An Employee Work?
Additional information on work hours.

elaws Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Advisor - Child Labor Rules
This Advisor answers questions about workers and businesses that are subject to the FLSA's child labor rules.

Occupational Outlook Handbook
A nationally recognized source of career information, designed to provide valuable assistance to individuals making decisions about their future work lives. Revised every two years, the Handbook describes what workers do on the job, working conditions, the training and education needed, earnings, and expected job prospects in a wide range of occupations.

Youth Programs of the Employment and Training Administration
Explore these pages and links for up-to-date information about the Department's youth programs, initiatives and directives, legislation and regulations, and other information working to positively impact our nation's youth.

  • Job Corps The nation's largest and most comprehensive residential education and job training program for at-risk youth, ages 16 through 24.
  • YouthBuild - YouthBuild programs give at-risk youth ages 16-24 the opportunity to transform their lives by earning their high school diploma or state-recognized equivalency degree, learning to be community leaders, and preparing for college and other post-secondary training opportunities.