Working Papers
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If your student is between the ages of 14 and 17 and is ready to enter the workforce, they will need Working Papers, officially known as an Employment Certificate, before they can legally begin working in New York State. This is a required document for all minors in this age group, and it protects young workers by ensuring they are entering safe, legal employment.
What Are Working Papers?
Working Papers are an official certificate issued by your school or the superintendent's office that gives a minor legal permission to work. Students from out of state who are working in New York City must obtain New York State working papers. Papers from another state are not accepted.
Working Papers are an official certificate issued by your school or the superintendent's office that gives a minor legal permission to work. Students from out of state who are working in New York City must obtain New York State working papers. Papers from another state are not accepted.
Who Is Required to Have Them?
All students ages 14–17 who plan to work are required to have working papers.
All students ages 14–17 who plan to work are required to have working papers.
What Documents Do You Need?
Students must bring a completed NY State application signed by a parent or guardian, a birth certificate, a NY State doctor's note confirming they are "fit for employment," and a valid schooling record such as a school ID or recent report card.
Students must bring a completed NY State application signed by a parent or guardian, a birth certificate, a NY State doctor's note confirming they are "fit for employment," and a valid schooling record such as a school ID or recent report card.
How Do You Apply?
Students complete the NY State application and submit it to their designated school staff member, who will then issue the Employment Certificate — Family Support Coordinators are also available to assist when school is not in session.
Need Help?
Our staff at Humanities Prep is always happy to guide students and families through the working papers process. Please reach out!