So You Wanna Work in San Diego: Age Ain't Nothing But a Number (Unless It Actually Is)
Dreaming of living the San Diego life? Sun-kissed beaches, world-famous tacos, and a career that lets you, well, afford all those tacos? Hold on to your surfboards, because before you can snag that sweet job scooping gelato on the beach boardwalk, there's a little hurdle to jump: age.
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| How Old To Work In San Diego |
The Nitty Gritty: How Old Do You Gotta Be?
In the wise words of Sir Mix-a-Lot (probably), baby got to work. But in San Diego, just like most of California, the legal working age is 14 years old. That's right, you can ditch summer school for a summer job (although, with all the cool stuff San Diego has to offer, maybe ditching school isn't the best idea). But hold on to your work permits! Anyone under 18 needs one of these bad boys to be officially employed. They're not super difficult to get, usually involving a trip to your school counselor and a parent's signature, but it's a necessary step.
Now, here's the fun part (well, kind of): restrictions! Depending on your age, there are limits on how many hours you can work and what kind of work you can do. Think of it like a video game where you unlock new levels and abilities as you get older.
- 14-15 year olds: You're like a level 2 apprentice. Working during school hours is a no-no, but after school and on weekends, you can rack in a maximum of 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week. No operating heavy machinery or working late nights for you, though.
- 16-17 year olds: Level up! You can work up to 48 hours a week, with a maximum of 8 hours a day during school breaks. Woohoo! Still can't work too late at night (think past 7:30 pm on school days) and some jobs are off-limits for safety reasons.
Remember: These are just the general guidelines. Always check with your employer and consult the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing ([CA.gov Department of Fair Employment and Housing]) to make sure everything is on the up and up.
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
FAQ: Working Woes Solved!
How to get a work permit in San Diego?
Easy peasy! Contact your school counselor. They'll have all the info and forms you need.
How many hours can I work if I'm 15 and it's summer break?
Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
You're in luck! During school breaks, 15 year olds can work up to 8 hours a day and 40 hours a week.
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I'm 16 and want to work nights and weekends at a pizza place. Is that cool?
Most likely! As long as you don't go over 8 hours a day and 48 hours a week, night and weekend shifts are generally okay for 16 year olds (but always double-check with your employer to make sure they follow the rules).
Tip: Revisit this page tomorrow to reinforce memory.
Is there anything I definitely can't do at work if I'm under 18?
Yep! There are some jobs deemed too dangerous for young folks, like operating heavy machinery or working with hazardous materials. Safety first, always!
I'm a super go-getter and want to start my own business in San Diego. Can I do that if I'm under 18?
QuickTip: Read a little, pause, then continue.
You've got the spirit! While there are ways for minors to be involved in businesses, it can get a little complicated. It's best to chat with your parents and maybe even a lawyer to see what the best course of action is.
So there you have it! The age key to unlock your San Diego work adventure. Remember, even though you might be young, you can still score an awesome job that helps you gain experience, make some cash, and maybe even buy yourself a surfboard (safely delivered, of course, because you know, restrictions and all).
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