• A work permit is required before anyone under the age of 16 is allowed to work in any job with the exception of agriculture or domestic service work.
• Employers must have a work permit on file for the minor being employed before they may allow the minor to begin work.
• 16- and 17-year-old minors do NOT need to obtain a work permit prior to beginning work. Work permits will not be issued for minors ages 16 or 17.
• State law prohibits the use of minors to perform hazardous work. Prohibited employment provisions still apply to work that 16- and 17-year-old minors can be employed to perform.

How to Obtain a Work Permit:

As of July 1, 2023, Work Permits will only by available online at https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/er/laborstandards/workpermit.

Parents and guardians may obtain a work permit by following the instructions below. NOTE that parents and guardians are required to pay the work permit application fee at the time of purchase. After the payment has processed, the parent or guardian will receive an email confirmation and the permit will be printed and mailed directly to the employer. The minor's employer will receive the permit within five (5) business days. The minor may begin working upon receipt of the confirmation email.

1. Create a DWD ID

If you already have a DWD ID, you do not need to create a new ID. Enter Information about the minor applying for the work permit and their:

Employer

Job

School

Pay for minor's work permit.  Checking or savings account accepted.

Any questions about Work Permits, please contact the District Office at (715) 373-6188 x160