Our website contains general information on the provisions of the laws governing the employment of minors in New York State. 16 and 17 year-olds may not work more than 48 hours a week.All minors between the ages of 1417 must provide "working papers" prior to their first day of work. Youth 16 or 17 years old may perform any nonhazardous job for unlimited hours. Businesses can hire minors aged 14 to 18 as long as they follow state and federal laws on working hours, wages, and job restrictions. In General Employment 14- and 15-year-old minors may work until 9. p.m. Under the FLSA, 16 and 17yearolds may be employed for unlimited hours in any nonagricultural, nonhazardous position. If you hire minors, you must complete the employment information section of their employment certificates, and sign and date the promise of employment. Must a parent or legal guardian of a 16 year old minor provide any documentation to an employer? 16- and 17-year-olds may now work the same hours and days as an adult.