Missouri Rules on Employing Minors

In Missouri, a work certificate may be issued upon application by the minor or the minor's parent/guardian, and upon receipt and approval by the issuing officer of the following: (1) a signed statement of intention to employ from the prospective employer stating specifically the nature of the occupation and the number of days and hours of employment; (2) proof of the age of the minor by birth certificate or other documentary evidence; (3) a physician's certificate showing that the examining doctor has found the minor in good mental and physical health and capable of performing labor without injury to his or her health and mental development; and (4) a certificate from the principal of the minor's school giving the grades completed (unless the minor is permanently excused from school attendance). Employers must keep the work certificate on file. On termination of employment, the minor's work certificate will be sent immediately to its issuing officer. A new certificate may be issued for a minor whose certificate has been returned by the employer to the issuing officer.

Minors between 14 and 16 may be employed at any nonprohibited occupation, except that during the regular school term a minor may not be employed unless issued a work certificate.