Virginia Rules on Employing Minors

No minor under 16 in Virginia may be employed, permitted or suffered to work in, about or in connection with any gainful occupation with the exception of volunteer work or work on farms, orchards and gardens, and as otherwise provided, unless the employer procures and keeps on file and accessible to any authorized person, an employment certificate; either a work/training certificate or a vacation/part-time employment certificate.

Effective July 1, 2003, children ages 12 and older may be employed as referees for sports programs sponsored by charitable, state or local organizations or by an organization recognized by the United States Olympic Committee under federal law.

Employment certificates are issued by the superintendent of school or the superintendent's designee, upon application in person of the minor desiring employment — accompanied by a parent/guardian or a notarized statement from the parent/guardian granting permission for the employment of the minor.