Information for youth ages 14-17 for working papers, safety and health on the job, and filling out job applications. 16 and 17 year-olds may not work more than 48 hours a week.Minors under 14 are not allowed to work, with limited exceptions, such as acting or performing, delivering newspapers, or working in agriculture. If you have issues with wages, compensation, overtime, child worker laws, etc. Call the New York State Department of Labor at 516-794-8195. A child must be 13 or older to get a part-time job. 16 - Basic minimum age for employment. In Virginia, every teenager 14 or 15 years of age must have an employment certificate. (work permit) to work at a job. You should always visit our Web site to obtain a current, complete version of the law and regulations.