With summer getting closer, Reps. Ayotte, Clark, Edgecomb and Willette wanted to remind their constituents that it is a good time for Maine teens and their parents to familiarize themselves with the requirements regarding work permits for teens. Maine law requires minors under the age of 16 to get a work permit before beginning a job.
Minors must get a new permit every time they begin a new job, even if they are working for their parents. In order to apply for a permit, minors must be enrolled in a school (or home-schooled); not habitually truant or under suspension; and have passed a majority of courses during the current grading period.
Before applying for a work permit, minors must have already been offered a job. They then need to go to their local school superintendent with proof of age. If their parent or guardian cannot accompany them, they must bring a signed note granting permission for them to apply for a permit.
Minors under the age of 16 may have no more than one work permit during the school year and no more than two in the summer. Minors between the ages of 16 and 17 do not need a work permit, but other restrictions still apply. For more information, call 623-7900 or visit the website http://www.safeteen.org.
