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In a week when school is in session, how many hours may a 14 or 15 year old generally work?

No more than 18 hours in a school week.

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  1. Up to 18 hours ✔
  2. Up to 12 hours
  3. Up to 24 hours

Why: Federal rules cap 14 and 15 year olds at 18 hours in any week when school is in session. In a week when school is out, the cap rises to 40 hours.

Huh, didn't know that: The rules count a week as in session when students must attend school at least one day or partial day.

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References

Answer: Up to 18 hours. Federal rules cap 14 and 15 year olds at 18 hours in any week when school is in session. In a week when school is out, the cap rises to 40 hours.

  1. 29 CFR 570.35 (Cornell LII) www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/29/570.35
    Not more than 18 hours in any 1 week when school is in session
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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