New Jersey Rules on Employing Minors

In New Jersey, no minor under 18 may work unless the employer has an employment certificate or special permit. Before being issued a permit, an employer must submit a written promise of described work, proof of age, a statement of physical fitness and a signed school record. Certificates are valid only for the employer for whom they are issued and for the occupation designated in the promise of employment. An employment or age certificate or special permit will be conclusive evidence of the age of the minor. Certificates can be obtained from the issuing officer of the school district which the minor attends. Employment certificates are of two kinds, regular certificates permitting employment during school hours, and vacation certificates permitting employment during the school vacation and during the school term at such times as the public schools are not in session.

Exceptions. No permit or certificate is required (1) for a minor 16 or over engaged in agriculture; (2) a minor 14 or over employed when school is not in session at agricultural fairs or animal shows lasting 10 days or less; (3) nor is a vacation certificate required for the first 14 days of employment in seasonal amusement, food service, restaurant or retail occupations when school is not in session.