Child Labor Law regulates employment of workers under 16 years of age. The law protects children by: requiring employment certificates.Under Illinois child labor laws, children that are 16-years-old and 17-years-old are not restricted regarding how many hours they may work in a work day. There are no restrictions on hours of work that a 16 or 17 year old minor may perform when school is not in session. 16 - Basic minimum age for employment. Working hours are limited for children under 16. Generally, employers cannot let children work before a.m. Work certificates are not required for 16 and 17yearolds. Yes, there are jobs that a 14-year-old can perform in Illinois. There are some strict restrictions, though, when you're below the age of 16.