Work Permits — Entertainment Industry

Work permits are required for youth under the age of 16 who work in the entertainment industry. A child under 16 may work in the entertainment industry if the director of the Missouri Division of Labor Standards issues the work permit. No permit will be issued without proof of age, a permission form from the parent or legal guardian, and a written statement from the prospective employer setting out the nature and expected duration of employment. The employer must keep the work permit and the statement as to the nature and duration of the employment on file. A work permit generally can be received within 48 hours. Permits may be revoked or not issued at the request of school officials if they feel work is unfavorable to a youth’s education. Read more about required breaks for youth in the entertainment industry.

For a detailed account of Missouri’s Child Labor Law, please contact the Division of Labor Standards at (573) 751-3403, or go to labor.mo.gov/DLS/YouthEmployment/.