If you are 16 to 17 years old and are not in school or are leaving school for full time employment, you will need these working papers. You are allowed to work in a factory, cannot work around certain machines, do construction work, help on a motor vehicle, or clean, oil, wipe, or adjust belts on machinery.
If you are on school vacation or do not attend school, you can get working paper forms and assistance at the school nearest your home. You can get more information about the application process. Learn more about working papers. Staff is available through the automated phone system during business hours.
16-year-old children cannot work more than 10 hours consecutive or more than 10 hours in a 24 hours period. 7 p.m. (9 p.m. before non-school day) to 6 a.m. 8-48 school day-week: 4-48 d except 8 before non-school day.
An Employment Certificate (Working Paper) is required for all minors under 18 years of age who are employed. There are numerous prohibited occupations or minors in New York State. Contact any of the offices listed below for further information.
If you are aged 14-17 you will need an employment certificate, also called working papers, in order to hold a job in New York State.