How to Get a Work Permit in Texas

Getting a work permit in Texas is much easier than most teens think, but the entire process can be pretty confusing if you've never done it before. Because of this, we've created this page which outlines everything you need to know about getting a work permit in Texas.  If you're under the age of 16, a work permit is required to work part-time at any company, so follow what we've outlined here and you can get a job in no time.

Minimum Working Age in Texas

Austin, Texas is considered the live music capital of the world. Many teenagers enjoy listening to live music, and a part time job is a great option for earning the money to buy more concert tickets. Fortunately, in Texas, minors as young as 14 are able to seek employment. There is no requirement for a work permit, the minor just needs to find a job.

As the federal government does not require work permits, minors living in Texas do not have to obtain one prior to seeking employment in the state. Should an employer ask a minor to obtain a Certificate of Age, the minor can follow a simple process to procure one and meet the employer’s request. Despite there being no requirement for a work permit, employers have to follow teen labor laws; click here for more information on teen labor laws in Texas.

Applying For a Work Permit in Texas

The state of Texas does not require work permits. An employer may request that the minor obtain a Certificate of Age. The minor can fulfill this request through the Texas Workforce Commission. The minor should do the following to obtain a Certificate of Age:            

  1. Complete the Certificate of Age form. The form can be accessed here.
  2. Once the form is filled out, the minor will send the completed form and the following to the Texas Workforce Commission:
  • Proof of age (a copy of a birth certificate, baptismal certificate that shows date of birth, passport, certificate of arrival in the United States, or a school record with a sworn statement of age from the parent and physician’s Certificate of Age).
  • An original and recent photo of the minor (full face and head in the photo).
  1. The address for the Texas Workforce Commission, Labor Law Section, is 101 East 15th Street, Room 124T, Austin, Texas 78778-0001

Transferring Work Permits in Texas

As work permits are not required in Texas, this is not applicable.

Employer Responsibility With Work Permits in Texas

Employers in Texas do not have to obtain work permits from the minors that they employ, however, as noted above, they must follow teen labor laws.