Almost all minors under the age of 18 are subject to California's child labor protections. All minors who have not graduated high school or been awarded a certificate of proficiency, must have a valid work permit.A number of federal and California state laws impose stringent restrictions on the number of work hours individuals under the age of 18 may be employed. With limited exceptions, employers generally may not hire minors under the age of 14. The general rule is that the legal working age in California is 14-years-old, but anybody under the age of 18 must have a work permit. Youth who are 14 and 15 years old may enroll in a work experience education program and be issued permits to work in fulltime employment if:. All minors under the age of 18 must have a permit to work in the State of California. It's important to understand the requirements that apply to job applicants under the age of 18. Minors under 18 years of age must attend school to get a work permit. However, employers of minors under age 18 must obtain and keep on file proof of the minor's age.