In Texas, children as young as 13 can work, but only under specific conditions that balance opportunity with safety. State law follows federal child labor rules from the U.S. Department of Labor, which set strict limits on when, where, and how long minors can work. Most jobs available to 13 year olds are in entertainment, delivery, or family businesses, while roles considered hazardous are strictly prohibited. Understanding these rules helps parents and teens avoid violations and choose safe, age appropriate opportunities.
Texas Child Labor Law at a Glance
Texas child labor law applies to minors under 18 and incorporates federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) standards. Work permits are generally not issued by schools for 13 and 14 year olds, but parental consent and proof of age are required in most cases. Employers must keep records of a minor’s age, work authorization, and hours worked.
Quick Comparison: Permitted, Restricted, and Prohibited Work for 13 Year Olds in Texas
| Category | Job or Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Permitted (with limits) | \nDelivery work (non hazardous), acting, modeling, babysitting, yard work for neighbors | Outside school hours; non hazardous tasks only |
| Restricted | Office work, some retail, some food service | Allowed if not hazardous; hours limited on school days |
| Prohibited | Manufacturing, mining, transportation, most construction, roofing, use of power tools | Federal law bars these for 13 15 year olds; state law follows |
When Can a 13 Year Old Work in Texas?
Under both Texas statutes and FLSA rules, 13 year olds are generally allowed to work in low risk roles outside school hours. At this age, minors may not be hired for occupations declared hazardous, and they cannot work before 7 a.m. or past 7 p.m., with some exceptions during school holidays. On school days, work is limited to three hours per day and 18 hours per week; in non school weeks, they may work up to eight hours per day and 40 hours per week. These protections aim to safeguard education, rest, and safety.
Work Permits and Documentation
Texas does not issue work permits through schools for 13 and 14 year olds, but employers must verify age and obtain written consent from a parent or guardian. Acceptable proof of age typically includes a certified birth certificate, U.S. passport, or religious record showing birth date. Employers are responsible for keeping records of a minor’s age, the job duties, and hours worked, which may be requested during a wage and hour audit.
Permitted Jobs by Sector
Entertainment and Media
Minors can perform in television, film, theater, and modeling, provided the work complies with minor labor performance laws and education requirements. Casting directors, talent agencies, and venues that hire young performers must follow strict rules on schooling, tutoring, and hours.
Delivery and Errands
Light delivery tasks, such as delivering newspapers, flyers, or food in non hazardous conditions, may be allowed for 13 year olds when routes are short and work times are limited. Driving is not permitted; tasks must be confined to passenger vehicle rides with appropriate adult supervision where required.
Family-Owned Businesses
A 13 year old may work for a family business that is not considered hazardous, such as a retail shop, restaurant, or farm operation owned by a parent or legal guardian. Even in family businesses, hours and job duties must comply with child labor rules, and hazardous equipment or materials remains off limits.
Hazardous Jobs and Restricted Activities
Federal and Texas law list specific hazards that disqualify a job for minors under 16. These include operating heavy machinery, exposure to explosives, most roofing work, and many tasks in manufacturing and mining. Power tools, certain chemicals, and high noise or temperature environments are also restricted. Employers who violate these rules risk citations, fines, and liability for injuries.
Safety, Education, and Parental Responsibilities
Parents and guardians play a central role in protecting younger workers. They should review job descriptions, worksite conditions, and transportation arrangements before approving employment. Teens should receive basic workplace safety training, know their rights to refuse unsafe tasks, and understand how to report concerns to the Texas Workforce Commission or federal Wage and Hour Division. Keeping track of school performance and work hours helps prevent overwork and supports healthy routines.
Enforcement and Worker Rights
The Texas Workforce Commission investigates child labor complaints and works with the federal Wage and Hour Division when issues cross state lines. Minors and parents have the right to request records of work hours and pay, report violations, and seek back wages if hours or job duties violated the law. Retaliation against a worker who reports a violation is prohibited.