The Illinois Child Labor Law requires employers to secure and keep on file Employment Certificates (work permits) for children under 16 years of age. Minors aged 14 or 15 may work, but not without first obtaining an Employment Certificate from their local high school or school administration office.Learn about when children can start working, work permits, and the restrictions on the hours and types of work children can do. Illinois Child Labor Law requires any child under age 16 who wants to work to obtain an employment certificate from their school's Issuing. Officer. This Illinois law enhances restrictions on the employment of minors. Indeed, the Act imposes certain new civil and criminal penalties on violating employers. Generally, employers are not allowed to hire children aged 13 and younger. At Franklin College, we are committed to an experiential education in a vibrant, inclusive learning community. Can you pass background checks? If you answered yes to any of these questions, click the link to fill out a volunteer form for your county below.