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The Department of Labor Certificate form, specifically known as the Youth Employment Certificate, serves as a vital document for young individuals seeking employment. This form outlines the process for obtaining a work permit, ensuring that minors are protected under labor laws while gaining valuable work experience. Applicants must navigate several screens, providing essential information regarding their identity, potential employer, and job duties. Employers must confirm the age and job responsibilities of the youth, ensuring adherence to job restrictions based on age. Proper signatures from the youth, a parent or guardian, and the employer are necessary for the certificate to be valid. The form must be submitted to the employer before the youth begins work. Maintaining the certificate for a prescribed period after employment ends is also required by law. Additionally, certain employers, such as governmental or agricultural entities, are not subject to state youth employment requirements, although they must still comply with federal regulations. If questions arise about the form or its associated restrictions, resources are available through the Wage and Hour Bureau or the U.S. Department of Labor, providing accessible support for both employers and youths navigating youth employment standards.

Department Of Labor Certificate Example

Procedure for Obtaining a Youth Employment Certificate

1.Go to the Youth Employment Certificate (work permit) on the N.C. Department of Labor’s website:

http://www.nclabor.com/wh/youth_instructions.htm

Computer access may be available at the potential employer, schools or public libraries if you do not have access at home.

2.Complete the application screens identified below. This process works best when completed at the employer’s location to ensure accuracy of job descriptions and ABC permit requirements. The completed YEC must be signed by the youth, parent and employer in order to be valid.

Screen 1: Requests information on the youth, proposed employer and business type.

Screen 2: Requests a response regarding the employer’s ABC permit status for most business types. This is a required field; however, a “YES” response applies mostly to restaurants and country clubs where alcoholic beverages are sold and consumed on the premises.

Screen 3: Displays job restrictions by age groups and requests selection of proposed employment.

Screen 4: Displays information entered for review prior to printing.

3.Completed and signed certificates must be given to the employer on or before the first day of work.

4.The employer must verify the youth’s age, proposed job duties and any restrictions noted on the certificate.

5.The certificate must be maintained by the employer for two years after employment ends or until age 20, as appropriate.

If you have questions about this form or youth employment restrictions, please contact the Wage and Hour Bureau at 919-807-2796 (Raleigh) or toll-free (NC only) 1-800-NC-LABOR (1-800-625- 2267). Our Call-Center is open from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Note: Governmental (public), agricultural and domestic employers are not required to obtain state youth employment certificates in order to employ youths under 18 as these employers do not come under any of the state youth employment provisions. Therefore, the N.C. Department of Labor will not allow the issuance of youth employment certificates for youths under 18 employed by any of these employers. These employers may still be subject to the federal child labor provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and may have to comply with its age verification requirements. For questions on the federal child labor requirements, contact the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division’s national call-center at 1-866-4-USWAGE (toll- free). Website: http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/.

06/11/2014

Alternative Procedure for Obtaining a Youth Employment Certificate

The online procedure outlined above is the preferred method for obtaining a Youth Employment Certificate (work permit). If you cannot complete the certificate online:

1.Print the blank Youth Employment Certificate (work permit) on the following page.

2.The youth should complete the top sections from “Name” down through “Zip Code.”

3.The employer should complete the remaining sections from “Job Description” down through “Area Code and Phone Number” and sign the form. *Note: Employer must appropriately mark the “ABC ON-PREMISES PERMIT?” section.

4.Obtain the signature of a parent, guardian, custodian or person standing in place of a parent as defined in 29 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) 570.126. Note: This signature is not required for a youth who has been issued a final decree of emancipation by a court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to Chapter 7B, Article 35 of the N.C. General Statutes.

5.Take the completed certificate along with a “proof of age” document (birth certificate, driver’s license, learner’s permit, state-issued ID, passport, etc.) to the local Department of Social Services (DSS) office or location of an approved designee. Once the information has been verified, the youth will be asked to sign the form in the presence of the issuing officer. Website to get all county DSS offices: http://www.dhhs.state.nc.us/dss/local/. Note: Some county DSS offices no longer process Youth Employment Certificates. Telephone before going.

6.Provide a copy of the “issued” certificate to your employer on or before the first day of work. The employer is required to maintain this certificate on file.

If you have questions about this form or youth employment restrictions, please contact the Wage and Hour Bureau at 919-807-2796 (Raleigh) or toll-free (NC only) 1-800-NC-LABOR (1-800-625- 2267). Our Call-Center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Note: Governmental (public), agricultural and domestic employers are not required to obtain state youth employment certificates in order to employ youths under 18 as these employers do not come under any of the state youth employment provisions. Therefore, the N.C. Department of Labor will not allow the issuance of youth employment certificates for youths under 18 employed by any of these employers. These employers may still be subject to the federal child labor provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and may have to comply with its age verification requirements. For questions on the federal child labor requirements, contact the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division’s national call-center at 1-866-4-USWAGE (toll- free). Website: http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/.

06/11/2014

Welding, brazing and torch cutting*
Any process where quartz or any other form of silicon dioxide or asbestos silicate are present in powdered form*
Any work involving exposure to lead or any of its compounds in any form*
Any work involving exposure to benzene or any benzene compound which is volatile or can penetrate the skin*
Occupations in canneries, seafood and poultry processing which involve cutting or slicing machines, or freezing or packaging activities*
Any work which involves the risk of falling a distance of 10 feet or more, including ladders and scaffolds*
Any work as an electrician or electrician’s helper* Any work in confined spaces*
Occupations requiring the use of respirators*

NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

YOUTH EMPLOYMENT CERTIFICATE

Please Type or Print Clearly

Name of Youth:

Date of Birth: (mo/da/yr)

Age:

 

 

Sex:

 

Area Code

Phone

 

 

 

 

 

 

(

)

 

 

Complete Mailing Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

 

State

Zip Code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Job Description: (Please be as complete as possible)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Company Name:

 

 

 

Type of Business:

 

*ABC ON-PREMISES PERMIT?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes

NO

Complete Mailing Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City:

 

State:

 

Zip Code

 

Area Code

Phone

 

 

 

 

 

 

(

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURES & IMPORTANT INFORMATION BELOW

1.Minimum Age for Employment: Fourteen (14) for non-farm work with limited exceptions. Proof of age includes birth certificate, driver’s license or DMV issued identification card, school records, insurance records, or other documentary evidence approved by the Department of Labor.

2.*ABC On-premises Permit Restrictions: Youth under age 18 may not prepare, dispense, serve, or sell alcoholic beverages for any reason even if employed by their parents. Youth 16-17 may be employed in the premises to perform other duties including waitperson and cashier as long as youth is not serving, taking orders or ringing up on-premises alcoholic beverages. Youth under age 16 may not work in the premises for any reason. A limited exception exists for youth under age 16 who are employed by their parents to work in the premises to perform other duties. Youth 14-15 may work on the outside grounds to perform other duties with parent/guardian written permission (permit signature is acceptable).

3.Rest Breaks: No youth under age 16 may be employed for more than 5 consecutive hours without an interval of at least 30 minutes for rest (applies to employers who are subject to state labor law only).

4.Hours Restrictions (14-15 year olds): Only between 7 am and 7 pm (except until 9 pm during the summer when school is not in session); only outside school hours; no more than 3 hours per day or 18 hours per week when school is in session; and, no more than 8 hours per day or 40 hours per week when school is not in session.

5.Hours Restrictions (16-17 year olds): If regularly enrolled in grades 12 or lower, cannot be employed between 11pm and 5 am when there is school the next day for the youth unless the employer receives written permission from the parent/guardian and the principal or principal’s designee. This restriction does not apply to youth enrolled in GED programs or who have dropped out of school.

6.Permitted Occupations (14-15 year olds): Can only work in office or clerical occupations, in retail sales or service occupations including food service and gasoline service stations. Cannot work in manufacturing, construction, or occupations involving the use of power-driven machinery including lawn mowers.

7.Hazardous/Detrimental Occupations (Not Permitted For Youth Under Age 18) [*Limited apprenticeship/student learner exemptions]:

Manufacturing or storing explosives

Motor vehicle driving (limited exemption) and outside helper

Logging and sawmilling

Power-driven woodworking machines*

Power-driven metal forming, punching, shearing* Mining

Slaughtering, meat packing, processing or rendering* Power-driven bakery machines

Power-driven paper products machines* Manufacturing brick or tile

Power-driven circular saws, band saws, or guillotine shears*

Wrecking, demolition and shipbreaking operations Roofing operations*

Excavation operations*

**NOTE: For more details on child labor/youth employment, go to: http://www.nclabor.com/wh/fact%20sheets/joint_state_fed.htm

The undersigned individuals certify that the above information is correct; the youth will not be employed in a hazardous, prohibited, or detrimental occupation; will only be employed during legal hours; and, will be employed only in a permitted occupation.

Employer’s Signature:

Parent/Guardian/Custodian’s Signature:

Youth’s Signature:

(Youth must present proof of age and must sign in the presence of the issuing officer)

DSS/Designee’s Signature:

County

Designee ID Number

06/11/2014

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description Governing Law
Application Process Youth must complete the Youth Employment Certificate application online or through a print-out. The form requires signatures from the youth, parent, and employer. N.C. General Statutes Chapter 7B, Article 35
Employer Responsibilities The employer must verify the youth's age and job duties as outlined on the certificate and retain it for two years post-employment. N.C. Department of Labor Regulations
Prohibited Employment Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
Exceptions for Certain Employers Governmental, agricultural, and domestic employers are not required to obtain state youth employment certificates for youths under 18. N.C. General Statutes and FLSA

Guide to Using Department Of Labor Certificate

Filling out the Department of Labor Certificate form for youth employment is crucial for compliance and safety. After completing the form, you will submit it to the appropriate authorities and provide a copy to the employer. This ensures that all parties are aware of the employment terms and conditions.

  1. Visit the Youth Employment Certificate page at the N.C. Department of Labor’s website: http://www.nclabor.com/wh/youth_instructions.htm. You may access a computer at a school, a public library, or through your potential employer if needed.
  2. Fill out the online application, which includes these screens:
    • Screen 1: Enter youth's personal information along with employer details and business type.
    • Screen 2: Respond to questions about the employer’s ABC permit status, particularly for restaurants and clubs selling alcohol.
    • Screen 3: Review job restrictions based on age and select the proposed employment.
    • Screen 4: Check all information entered before printing.
  3. Make sure the completed Youth Employment Certificate is signed by the youth, their parent, and the employer. This step is essential for the certificate's validity.
  4. Provide the signed certificate to the employer by the first day of work.
  5. Ensure the employer verifies the youth’s age and job duties, and any restrictions listed on the certificate.
  6. Remember that the employer must retain the certificate for two years after the youth's employment ends or until the youth reaches age 20, whichever comes first.

If you need an alternative method to fill out the form, print a blank certificate and follow these steps:

  1. Print the Youth Employment Certificate.
  2. Have the youth fill in their information at the top of the form.
  3. Ask the employer to complete the job description and contact details, and ensure they sign the form.
  4. Obtain a signature from the parent or guardian, unless the youth is emancipated.
  5. Take the completed certificate and a proof of age document to the local Department of Social Services or an approved designee for verification.
  6. Provide a copy of the issued certificate to the employer before starting work.

Contact the Wage and Hour Bureau at 919-807-2796 in Raleigh or call toll-free at 1-800-NC-LABOR (1-800-625-2267) if you have questions. They can help clear up any uncertainties about the process or youth employment laws.

Get Answers on Department Of Labor Certificate

What is the purpose of the Department of Labor Certificate form?

The Department of Labor Certificate, specifically the Youth Employment Certificate (YEC), is designed to regulate the employment of minors in North Carolina. It ensures that young individuals aged under 18 work in safe environments and do not engage in hazardous occupations. By requiring this certificate, the state aims to protect youth workers while allowing them to gain employment experience.

How can I obtain a Youth Employment Certificate?

There are two primary ways to obtain a Youth Employment Certificate: online or through a printed application. The preferred method is to complete it online via the N.C. Department of Labor’s website. If you cannot access the internet, you can print the blank certificate, fill it out manually, and then submit it to the appropriate local office. It's often best to complete the application with your employer present to ensure that all job descriptions and requirements are accurately represented.

What steps are involved in completing the Youth Employment Certificate application?

  1. Visit the N.C. Department of Labor’s Youth Employment Certificate page online.
  2. Complete the online application with accurate information about the youth, the employer, and the job description.
  3. Have the certificate signed by the youth, their parent or guardian, and the employer.
  4. Submit the completed certificate to the employer on or before the first day of work.
  5. Keep a copy for your records, as the employer is required to maintain the certificate for two years after employment ends.

Are there any age restrictions for certain jobs?

Yes, the YEC outlines specific age-related restrictions for employment. Youth under 14 generally cannot work, while those aged 14 to 15 can only work in limited occupations such as retail and clerical positions. Additionally, certain jobs may be hazardous and are prohibited for anyone under 18, including roles that involve power-driven machinery or exposure to harmful substances. It's crucial to consult the YEC for detailed lists of permitted and prohibited occupations.

What documents do I need to apply for a Youth Employment Certificate?

To apply for a Youth Employment Certificate, you must provide proof of age. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, driver’s license, state-issued ID, passport, or other official documents that verify the individual’s age. Make sure to have this proof ready when completing the application, as it is a necessary component of the certification process.

What should I do if I have questions about the Youth Employment Certificate or employment laws?

If you have questions regarding the Youth Employment Certificate or any related employment laws, you can contact the Wage and Hour Bureau at 919-807-2796, or use the toll-free number for North Carolina residents: 1-800-NC-LABOR (1-800-625-2267). Additionally, the N.C. Department of Labor’s website provides a wealth of resources to help answer your inquiries and clarify the rules surrounding youth employment.

Common mistakes

When filling out the Department of Labor Certificate form, individuals often overlook critical details that can lead to delays or denials. One common mistake is failing to provide accurate information about the employer. Incomplete entries regarding the employer's name or their contact details can cause problems during verification. Employers must ensure all fields are thoroughly completed for the submission to be valid.

Another frequent error is neglecting the ABC permit status. Applicants sometimes misinterpret the requirement or fail to mark this section properly. Since this applies mainly to specific business types, misunderstanding or skipping this question can lead to unnecessary complications. All applicants should be informed about whether their employer holds an ABC permit.

People also often ignore the signature requirements. The form must be signed by the youth, their parent or guardian, and the employer. A missing signature may render the certificate invalid. Failure to gather these necessary signatures can delay employment start dates or result in disqualification at the local Department of Social Services.

Lastly, many applicants underestimate the importance of providing a proof of age document. Submitting an incomplete certificate without the appropriate identification can lead to rejection at the office. Always verify that the necessary documents, such as a birth certificate or state ID, are included with the submission. This attention to detail is crucial for a smooth processing experience.

Documents used along the form

When applying for a Youth Employment Certificate, several other forms and documents may also be required. These additional materials help ensure compliance with labor laws and facilitate smooth employment for youths. Below are some commonly utilized documents.

  • Proof of Age Document: This may include a birth certificate, driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport. Employers and officials often require this to verify the youth's age in accordance with labor laws.
  • Employment Application: The youth may need to fill out an application form that outlines their personal details, work experience, and the specific position they are applying for.
  • Parental Consent Form: In many cases, a written agreement from a parent or guardian is essential, especially for minors. This document grants permission for the youth to work and can specify any limitations or conditions.
  • Job Description: A detailed description provided by the employer outlining the specific duties and responsibilities associated with the job. This helps assess whether the work is appropriate for the youth's age.
  • Wage Agreement: This document details the pay rate and payment schedule. It ensures that both the employer and youth understand the compensation for the work performed.
  • Occupational Safety Information: Employers may offer documentation regarding workplace safety regulations, ensuring youths understand the safety measures they must follow while on the job.
  • Tax Forms: Depending on employment status, the youth may need to complete tax withholding forms, such as the W-4, to provide necessary information to the employer for tax purposes.

Having these forms ready can help simplify the process of obtaining a Youth Employment Certificate. Understanding each document's purpose further aids in ensuring that employment regulations are met and that young employees have a smooth start in their new roles.

Similar forms

The Department of Labor Certificate form shares similarities with several other documents that serve to regulate employment, provide necessary permissions, or verify identity. Here’s a list of seven documents related to employment and age verification:

  • Employment Authorization Document (EAD) - This card is issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and allows non-citizens to work legally in the United States, verifying their eligibility based on immigration status.
  • Work Permit - Similar to the Youth Employment Certificate, a work permit may be required for minors in various states or municipalities. It ensures compliance with local labor laws regarding youth employment.
  • Social Security Card - This document assigns a unique number to U.S. citizens and eligible residents for tracking earnings and benefits, often required by employers to verify identity and eligibility for work.
  • State Identification Card - Issued by state departments of motor vehicles, this card can serve as proof of age and identity, similar to documents needed for youth employment verification.
  • Employment Verification Letter - Provided by an employer, this letter confirms an individual's employment status, including job title and duration, which can be crucial for new job applications or background checks.
  • Child Labor Certification - Certain states require a certification before a minor can work, detailing restrictions and conditions similar to those found in the Youth Employment Certificate.
  • Age Verification Documentation - This can include various forms of identification like birth certificates or voter IDs, used to prove an applicant’s age to ensure compliance with labor laws.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Department of Labor Certificate form, it is important to follow some guidelines. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn’t do.

  • Do complete the application screens at the employer’s location to ensure accuracy.
  • Do ensure all sections, including signatures from the youth, parent, and employer, are completed.
  • Do provide a proof of age document along with the completed certificate.
  • Do verify the youth's age and job duties with the employer as required.
  • Don’t submit the certificate without verifying all required information is accurate.
  • Don’t overlook the minimum age and work restrictions based on the youth’s age.

Misconceptions

Misconception 1: Youth Employment Certificates are only required for jobs in restaurants.

In truth, a Youth Employment Certificate is necessary for various types of employment involving individuals under 18, not just in restaurants. It applies to many businesses where young people may work.

Misconception 2: The certificate can be obtained after starting a job.

Actually, the completed and signed Youth Employment Certificate must be provided to the employer on or before the first day of work. Ensuring this step is completed in time is essential.

Misconception 3: All employers must obtain a Youth Employment Certificate for their under-18 employees.

This is not correct. Governmental, agricultural, and domestic employers are exempt from this requirement. However, they still need to comply with the federal child labor provisions.

Misconception 4: A parent’s signature is always required.

A parent or guardian's signature is not needed for youths who have been legally emancipated. Understanding this exception is key for some families.

Misconception 5: The Youth Employment Certificate lasts indefinitely.

On the contrary, the employer must keep the certificate for two years after the youth’s employment ends, or until the youth turns 20. This time frame is important for both the employer and employee.

Misconception 6: Any document that proves age is acceptable.

While various documents can serve as proof of age, specific forms like a birth certificate or state-issued ID are preferred. This ensures that the proof is reliable and meets requirements.

Misconception 7: All occupations are permissible for youths under 18.

Many occupations are actually prohibited for those under 18, especially those deemed hazardous. Familiarity with these limitations is crucial for compliance and safety.

Misconception 8: Employers do not have to verify job descriptions.

In fact, employers are required to verify the youth's proposed job duties and any restrictions noted on the certificate. This step protects both the employer and the young employee.

Misconception 9: Obtaining a Youth Employment Certificate is complicated and time-consuming.

The process is streamlined and can often be completed online. For those who face difficulties, alternative procedures are also in place, making it accessible for youth entering the workforce.

Key takeaways

Obtaining and using the Department of Labor Certificate form is essential for youth employment. Here are key takeaways to consider:

  • Accessing the Form: Begin by visiting the N.C. Department of Labor’s website to complete the Youth Employment Certificate online. If access to a computer is limited, check with potential employers, schools, or public libraries.
  • Completing the Application: Fill out the application at the employer's location for accuracy. Ensure all parties—the youth, parent, and employer—sign the completed certificate.
  • Submission Timing: Deliver the signed certificate to the employer before the first day of work. This step is crucial for legal compliance.
  • Age Verification: Employers must verify the youth’s age and confirm job duties against any restrictions noted on the certificate.
  • Record Keeping: Employers are required to keep the certificate on file for two years after employment ends or until the youth turns 20, whichever comes first.
  • Federal Regulations: Be aware that public, agricultural, and domestic employers do not need a state youth employment certificate, but may still be subject to federal regulations regarding youth employment.

If you have further questions, contact the Wage and Hour Bureau or refer to the U.S. Department of Labor’s resources.