Child Labor Law regulates employment of workers under 16 years of age. The law protects children by:Learn about when children can start working, work permits, and the restrictions on the hours and types of work children can do. This Illinois law enhances restrictions on the employment of minors. Indeed, the Act imposes certain new civil and criminal penalties on violating employers. However, employers of minors under age 18 must obtain and keep on file proof of the minor's age. Child Labor Law requires an Illinois Department of Labor work permit for workers under 16 years of age. The Act applies to minors ages 15 and younger. One of the primary provisions of Illinois child labor laws is the minimum age for employment. Employment of minors.