Minors 16 years of age or older may not be employed before 6 am or after 12 midnight during a regular school week. 16-17-Year-Olds Work Restrictions.When school is not in session, 16 and 17-year-olds may only work between 6 a.m. The Pennsylvania Child Labor Act requires all minors ages 14 - 17 to have a work permit in order to be employed. The Child Labor Act of Pennsylvania stipulates that minors are eligible for employment only when they reach the age of 14 or above. The law states those aged from 14-17 years old are entitled to at least a 30 minute break when working for 5 consecutive hours. Children under 16 may not be employed in any manufacturing or mechanical occupation or process. The Department of Safety may issue age certificates to 16 and 17yearolds. â–« Philadelphia Fair Workweek Law. When school is not in session, they may work up to 40 hours in a week.