As a labor law expert, I specialize in the intricacies of employment regulations and their implications on various age groups, including teenagers. It's crucial to understand that the number of hours a teenager can work is governed by a complex set of laws that vary by country and sometimes even by state or region within a country. These laws are designed to balance the needs of the economy with the health, education, and well-being of young workers.

In the United States, for example, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the federal guidelines for the employment of minors. According to the FLSA, the rules concerning the work hours of teenagers, specifically those aged 16 and 17, are quite specific:


1. School Year vs. Non-School Year: The regulations differ depending on whether it is a school year or the period when school is not in session.


2. Hours of Work During the School Year: During the school year, 16 and 17-year-olds cannot work more than 3 hours on a school day, 18 hours in a week when school is in session, and 40 hours when school is not in session.


3. Hours of Work Outside the School Year: Outside of the school year, there is no limit to the number of hours that teenagers aged 16 and 17 can work.


4. Start and End Times: There are also restrictions on the times of day that teenagers can work. During the school year, they cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. (except from June 1 through Labor Day, when evening hours are extended to 9 p.m.). On days preceding school days, they cannot work later than midnight.


5. Occupational Restrictions: Certain jobs are deemed hazardous and are off-limits to those under 18.

The information provided in the reference material seems to be outdated or misinterpreted. As of my last update in April 2023, the FLSA does not state that 16- or 17-year-olds cannot work more than 48 hours in any one week while attending school. Instead, the weekly limit is 18 hours. The reference to working "nine and 3/5 hours per day" when the weekly maximum is worked in five days is also not accurate according to the FLSA guidelines.

It's important to note that states can have their own child labor laws, and in some cases, these state laws may be more restrictive than federal regulations. Employers must comply with both federal and state laws, and in the event of a conflict, the law that provides the greatest protection to the minor applies.

Moreover, the work hours for teenagers can also be influenced by local ordinances, and there may be additional restrictions or allowances depending on the industry and specific job tasks.

In conclusion, the number of hours a teenager can work is subject to a variety of legal constraints designed to protect their welfare. It is always advisable for employers, parents, and teenagers themselves to consult the most current labor laws or seek guidance from a legal expert to ensure compliance and avoid any legal repercussions.

read more >>

No 16- or 17-year-old can work more than 48 hours in any one week while attending school. They cannot work more than nine hours in any day, unless the 48 hours weekly maximum is worked in five days. In that case, the minor may work nine and 3/5 hours per day.Nov 1, 2004read more >>