When I turn 16 can I get a job?
Michael Gray
Updated on March 18, 2026
A work permit is a legal document required by the state of California that allows a person under 18 years of age to hold a job. You may get a work permit from your local public high school.
Can I lie and say im 16 for a job?
In the United States, if you lie on your job application, the employer may terminate you without any other additional reason needed, no matter how good a job you did. Lying on a job application is a red flag that can harm you in future job prospects.
What place hires at 16?
Companies Hiring at Age 16
- B&B Theatres. Jobs for teens at B&B Theatre, a family owned circuit of movie theatres that is based in Liberty, Missouri.
- Regal Cinemas.
- Marcus Theatres.
- Piggly Wiggly.
- PetSmart.
Is it OK to not have a job at 16?
No it’s not bad, you don’t have a job, and you are 16 years old. But, you should really go and find a job. Or start your own company, if you have something you are really good at, and enjoy doing. And know you’ll never grow tired of it.
What jobs pay the most for 16-year-olds?
Here are 15 high-paying jobs for teenagers to consider if you’re looking for work opportunities:
- Cashier. National average salary: $10.55 per hour.
- Actor. National average salary: $11.00 per hour.
- Sales associate. National average salary: $11.06 per hour.
- Server.
- Caddy.
- Lifeguard.
- Retail merchandiser.
- Landscape laborer.
Can I lie about being 18 to get a job?
Federal jobs involving law enforcement and air traffic control often specify a maximum entry age, generally 34-37 years. Applicants who lie about their age to qualify for these jobs could be prosecuted for making false or fraudulent statements and face a fine or imprisonment.
How to get a job as a 16 year old?
Apply For Jobs Online For 16-Year-Olds. You’re reading this on StudentJob, you have come to the right place to apply for jobs online for 16-year-olds! All you have to do is sign up, upload your CV, even if you have no experience, and start applying! It’s really that easy. We wish you all the best at school and on your job search!
How many hours can a 16 year old work on a Saturday?
At this age, you should not be working more than 2 hours on school days and Sundays. There is also a restriction to your Saturday job – at 16 years old you should work no more than 8 hours on a Saturday, even in a school holiday.
How old do you have to be to get a job in the USA?
Accepting the Limitations Don’t bother if you are under 14. Federal law sets 14 as the minimum age of employment. Don’t expect to work too long. Federal regulations only allow those under 16 to work three hours on a school day and 18 hours total during a school week. Avoid hazardous jobs.
How do you get a work permit if you are under 16?
Present the work permit to your employer. Your employer should take and keep the work permit or proof of age. This will be necessary for them to prove that you are of age. If they do not have this evidence, they could be fined for hiring underage employees.