Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Local school officials play an important role in assuring that students maintain a proper balance between school and employment. As you know, school officials for many years have issued "work certificates" for students under the age of 16. Because of changes in state law, these forms have been updated and revised by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Missouri Division of Labor Standards.  Please be aware that "work permits" are issued by the Division of Labor Standards for youth employed in the entertainment industry.

Below are the new child labor work certificates ("work certificates"), which you should begin using as soon as possible.  There is one form to be used during the school year (the white sample) and a separate, but similar, form to be used for summer employment (the yellow sample). Please duplicate these forms, as needed, for use within your district. You may obtain more information on child labor laws by contacting the Division of Labor Standards at (573) 751-3403 or by e-mail.

The following are brief instructions for duplicating and using these forms:

• The "School Term Form" (#500-1368) applies to employment during non-school hours from Labor Day to June 1. It should be duplicated on WHITE paper.
• The "Summer Form" (#500-1367) applies to employment from June 1 to Labor Day. It should be duplicated on YELLOW paper.
• Both forms should be reproduced with the instructions printed on the back. This information is the same on both forms.
• Section A of both forms includes employee information and must be signed by both the student and parent or guardian. 
• Section B provides information about the employer (or potential employer) and must be signed by the employer or the employer’s authorized agent.
• Section C verifies the school district’s approval of the student’s employment. Approval should be given only if the school district is satisfied that the employment will serve the best interest of the child.  This applies to students that are home schooled or attend public or private schools.  This section should be signed by the superintendent or his/her designee.
• Original copies of both forms should be forwarded to the employer.  A copy must be sent to the Division of Labor Standards at the address shown on the back of each form.  One copy should be retained by the school.

It is important to remember that these forms relate only to compliance with state child labor laws. The federal wage and hour law provides a separate standard for child labor.

Certificate to Employ a Child 14 or 15 Years of Age for Non-school Hours (pdf)
    (7:00 a.m. to7:00 p.m. During School Term - Labor Day to June 1)

If you have any questions about youth employment, safety and health for young workers, or would like further information, training, or presentations in your district on these topics, please contact the Missouri Division of Labor Standards at (573) 751-3403 or by e-mail:   

Missouri Child Labor Laws:  Missouri Department of Labor, Division of Labor Standards 
Federal Child Labor Laws:  U.S. Department of Labor, Division of Hour and Wage