Employers​ are prohibited from hiring teens under 16 years of age who fail to present an approved work permit. Child Labor Law regulates employment of workers under 16 years of age.The law protects children by: The Act applies to minors ages 15 and younger. Minors aged 14 or 15 may work, but not without first obtaining an Employment Certificate from their local high school or school administration office. Children under 16 can work up to eight hours per day or up to six straight days a week. They can also work up to 48 hours per week. However, employers of minors under age 18 must obtain and keep on file proof of the minor's age. One of the primary provisions of Illinois child labor laws is the minimum age for employment. However, employers of minors under age 18 must obtain and keep on file proof of the minor's age.