State law also requires employers to have Youth Employment Permits (work permits) on file for all workers under 18. 16 and 17: May work the same hours as those who are 18 years old.Minors (ages 14 to 17) need a work permit to work in Massachusetts. A youth 18 years or older may perform any job, whether hazardous or not. A summary of laws governing minors' hours of work and hazardous occupations can be found at the end of this application form. In such cases, they can work for up to 23 hours per week. You may be able to work something out that isn't quite so dramatic. If your new hire is age 14-17, he or she must secure a Massachusetts employment permit. But, in fact, the licencing laws do not impose the under 17 rule.