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The Department of Labor Certificate form, specifically the Youth Employment Certificate, plays a crucial role in ensuring that minors are employed safely and in compliance with applicable laws. This form must be filled out accurately by all parties involved: the youth, their parent or guardian, and the employer. First, the application includes several sections, gathering information about the youth, the proposed employer, and relevant job descriptions. Notably, it checks if the employer has an ABC permit, particularly significant for businesses serving alcohol. Job restrictions tailored to specific age groups are also highlighted, ensuring that minors are not placed in hazardous work environments. Upon completion, the signed certificate must be presented to the employer before the youth’s first day on the job. The employer carries the responsibility of verifying the youth's age and job duties while keeping the certificate on file for two years after employment ends. It's important to note the exceptions for governmental, agricultural, and domestic employers, who do not need this certificate. For any questions or clarification regarding the form or youth employment restrictions, individuals may contact the Wage and Hour Bureau or the U.S. Department of Labor. This proactive measure aims to protect minors while providing them opportunities for gainful employment.

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/.

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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/.

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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

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose The Youth Employment Certificate is necessary for those under 18 seeking to work in North Carolina. It aims to ensure compliance with state labor laws.
Website Access Individuals can access the Youth Employment Certificate online via the N.C. Department of Labor's website, facilitating easier application processes.
Employer's Role The employer must sign the certificate and verify the youth's job duties and age before the employment commences.
Signature Requirement The certificate must have signatures from the youth, their parent or guardian, and the employer for it to be considered valid.
Retention Period Employers are required to keep the certificate on file for two years after employment ends or until the youth reaches age 20.
Exempt Employers Governmental, agricultural, and domestic employers do not require a Youth Employment Certificate to employ youth under 18.
Proof of Age Youths must present a proof of age document, such as a birth certificate or driver’s license, when applying for the certificate.
Hazardous Occupations Various occupations deemed hazardous are prohibited for youth under 18, including manufacturing explosives and driving motor vehicles.
Limitations by Age Youths aged 14-15 have specific hour and occupation restrictions, including working only from 7 am to 7 pm during school weeks.

Guidelines on Utilizing Department Of Labor Certificate

Completing the Department of Labor Certificate form correctly is essential for youth seeking employment. This certificate serves as an official work permit, ensuring that all legal requirements are met before a young person begins working. Below are straightforward steps to help you fill out the form seamlessly.

  1. Access the Youth Employment Certificate on the N.C. Department of Labor’s website: http://www.nclabor.com/wh/youth_instructions.htm. You can also find computer access at local employers, schools, or public libraries if necessary.
  2. Complete the following application screens at the employer's location for accuracy:
    • Screen 1: Provide information about the youth, the proposed employer, and the type of business.
    • Screen 2: Answer whether the employer has an ABC permit. This is crucial for restaurants and country clubs.
    • Screen 3: Review job restrictions by age groups and select the proposed employment.
    • Screen 4: Review all entered information before printing the form.
  3. Once completed, have the youth, parent, and employer sign the certificate to validate it.
  4. Deliver the signed certificate to the employer on or before the first day of work.
  5. The employer must confirm the youth’s age, job duties, and any restrictions on the certificate.
  6. The employer keeps the certificate on file for two years after employment or until the youth turns 20, whichever comes first.

If you can't complete the form online, you can take an alternative route:

  1. Print a blank Youth Employment Certificate.
  2. The youth fills out their name and address from “Name” to “Zip Code.”
  3. The employer completes the rest, marking the ABC permit box as appropriate, and signs it.
  4. Get a parent's or guardian's signature unless the youth has been emancipated.
  5. Take the completed form along with a proof of age document to the local Department of Social Services or an approved designee for verification.
  6. After the verification, the youth must sign the form in front of the issuing officer.
  7. Finally, provide a copy of the issued certificate to the employer on or before the first day of work.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth process in obtaining the necessary work permit. If you have any questions or need further clarification, don't hesitate to reach out to the Wage and Hour Bureau or the U.S. Department of Labor for assistance.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is a Youth Employment Certificate and who needs it?

A Youth Employment Certificate (YEC) is a work permit that allows minors under the age of 18 to work legally in North Carolina. The certificate ensures that young workers are employed in safe jobs, adhering to state and federal labor laws. Most employers in North Carolina are required to obtain this certificate for youths under 18 years who will be working, with some exceptions such as governmental, agricultural, and domestic employers.

How can I apply for a Youth Employment Certificate?

You can apply for a Youth Employment Certificate online through the North Carolina Department of Labor’s website. Begin by accessing the Youth Employment Certificate section. Fill out the required application forms, ensuring that all details about the youth, employer, and job description are accurate. After completing the forms, gather the necessary signatures from the youth, parent, and employer. A signed copy must then be provided to the employer on or before the first day of work. If online application is not possible, you may print a blank certificate and follow a similar process in person.

What documents do I need to provide with the YEC?

When completing the Youth Employment Certificate, you must provide proof of age documentation. This may include a birth certificate, driver’s license, state-issued ID, or passport. The completed certificate should be submitted to the local Department of Social Services (DSS) office for verification if you are not using the online method. Make sure to ask your DSS office beforehand if they handle the processing of Youth Employment Certificates, as some offices no longer do so.

How long does the employer need to keep the Youth Employment Certificate?

The employer is required to retain the Youth Employment Certificate for two years after the youth's employment ends, or until the youth turns 20, whichever comes first. This record is vital for compliance with labor laws and can serve as proof that the youth was legally employed during that time.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Department of Labor Certificate form, specifically the Youth Employment Certificate, can be a straightforward process. However, many applicants make common mistakes that can lead to delays or outright denials. Understanding these pitfalls can save time and ensure compliance.

One frequent mistake involves inadequate or unclear information. When entering personal details, such as the youth's name, age, and contact information, it's vital to ensure that everything is accurate and legible. A clear distinction between the job description and company name can prevent misunderstandings. Errors here can lead to confusion about the employment and its compliance with youth employment laws.

Another issue arises regarding the ABC permit status. Applicants often overlook this section, leading to incomplete applications. Not every business needs an ABC (Alcoholic Beverage Control) permit, but for those that do, failing to mark this accurately can result in problems. Thus, employers must ensure their compliance status is properly noted on the form.

Some individuals also forget the importance of signatures. All three parties—the youth, the parent or guardian, and the employer—must sign the form before submission. Omitting one of these signatures invalidates the application, causing unnecessary delays in obtaining the employment certificate.

Moreover, many applicants neglect to include proof of age documentation. Acceptable documents include birth certificates or driver's licenses. Employers should remind youths to bring these necessary documents during the application process. Missing this step often leads to the certificate being issued late or not at all.

In some instances, individuals will fail to verify employment restrictions. There are specific age-related job restrictions that apply, which must be adhered to for legal employment. Ignoring these can lead to legal repercussions for both the employer and the youth.

It is also common for applicants to misinterpret the job duties. The job description should clearly outline what the youth will be doing. Vague or overly broad descriptions may trigger issues during review. Employers should assist youths in preparing a detailed job description to avoid complications.

Another mistake involves not maintaining the certificate as required. Employers often forget to retain the youth employment certificate for the mandated two years after the employment ends. Failing to do this can result in challenges if compliance issues arise later on.

Lastly, many people disregard following up with the local Department of Social Services (DSS). After submitting the form, it is wise to confirm its approval. This step can provide peace of mind, especially when plans hinge on timely employment start dates.

By recognizing these common mistakes, youths and employers can streamline the process of completing the Youth Employment Certificate, thereby ensuring a smoother experience for all parties involved. Proper attention to detail can prevent delays and ensure that the youth is legally employed.

Documents used along the form

Alongside the Department of Labor Certificate form, various other documents and forms may be required to ensure compliance with employment regulations. Understanding these supplementary documents can facilitate smoother processing and create a better experience for all parties involved.

  • Proof of Age Document: This can include a birth certificate, state ID, or passport. It serves to verify the minor’s age and ensure compliance with legal employment standards.
  • Job Description: A detailed description outlining the duties and responsibilities associated with the position. This helps clarify what tasks the youth will perform, which is essential in determining if the job is suitable for their age group.
  • Parental Consent Form: Acquiring a signature from a parent or guardian is mandatory. This form signifies that the parent approves of the youth’s employment terms and acknowledges the nature of the work.
  • Employer Verification Form: This form is filled out by the employer to confirm that the job available for the youth meets all safety and legal requirements. It reinforces the employer’s responsibility in ensuring a safe working environment.
  • DSS Verification: If the Youth Employment Certificate is obtained through local DSS offices, the verification process requires office staff to check the completed certificate against the youth’s proof of age and other relevant documentation.
  • Record of Employment: Employers should create and maintain a record of each minor’s employment dates and hours worked. This record is crucial during audits and helps ensure compliance with labor laws.

Having the necessary forms and documentation ready can help streamline the youth employment process, benefiting both the employer and the young individual entering the workforce. Ensuring compliance not only protects the youth but also fosters a productive and legal working environment.

Similar forms

  • Employment Verification Letter: Similar to the Department of Labor Certificate, an Employment Verification Letter provides proof of employment and can detail the job duties, employer information, and proof of age if necessary. Both documents serve to confirm that a young person is legally allowed to work, especially in roles with age restrictions.
  • Work Permit: A Work Permit is essential for youths seeking employment, similar to the Youth Employment Certificate. It requires signatures from the youth, parent, and employer and confirms the job type, age verification, and compliance with labor laws.
  • Parental Consent Form: This form is vital when a minor is obtaining permission from their parent or legal guardian to work. Like the Youth Employment Certificate, it requires acknowledgment of the minor’s job details and any restrictions that apply based on age.
  • Age Verification Document: Often used in tandem with the youth employment certificate, an Age Verification Document provides proof of a minor’s age. This document is crucial for ensuring compliance with state and federal labor laws regarding youth employment.
  • Job Description Form: Similar to the information collected in the Youth Employment Certificate, a Job Description Form outlines the specific duties associated with a position. Both documents need to be filled out accurately to ensure that the youth’s job responsibilities align with legal standards and restrictions.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Department of Labor Certificate form, there are specific practices you should follow and others to avoid. Adhering to these guidelines will help ensure that the process runs smoothly and complies with regulatory requirements.

  • Do complete the application at the employer's location to ensure accurate job descriptions.
  • Do have the completed Youth Employment Certificate signed by the youth, their parent, and the employer for validity.
  • Do provide a completed certificate to the employer on or before the first day of work.
  • Do verify the youth's age and job duties as specified on the certificate before employment begins.
  • Do maintain the certificate for two years after the youth's employment ends.
  • Don't overlook the required information in each section of the form, as each detail is vital.
  • Don't forget to include the youth's proof of age when submitting the certificate to the Department of Social Services.
  • Don't attempt to use an online method if it is inaccessible; instead, print the blank form and follow the alternative procedure.
  • Don't assume that governmental, agricultural, or domestic employers will obtain the state youth employment certificate; they are exempt from this requirement.

Following these do's and don'ts will facilitate a more efficient application process and ensure compliance with employment laws governing youth workers.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Department of Labor Certificate form can often lead to confusion. Here are five common misunderstandings:

  • The Youth Employment Certificate is only for minors looking for summer jobs. Many people think this certificate is only needed for seasonal work. In reality, it is required for any employment of youths under 18, regardless of the time of year.
  • All employers must obtain a Youth Employment Certificate before hiring a minor. This is not true for governmental, agricultural, and domestic employers. These employers do not need to obtain state youth employment certificates, even if they are hiring minors.
  • You can fill out the certificate online at any time. While online completion is preferred, it can only be done at specific locations like the employer's site. Access may not be available everywhere, so it's best to verify access beforehand.
  • A completed certificate is only necessary for the first day of work. It is essential to provide the completed and signed certificate to the employer before the first day. This step must not be overlooked to ensure compliance with labor laws.
  • The certificate does not require parental consent if the youth is older than 16. Even if a minor is aged 16 or 17, a parent's signature is still required unless there is a final decree of emancipation from a court.

Understanding these points can help ensure compliance with employment regulations and facilitate a better work experience for youth.

Key takeaways

Here are some key takeaways regarding the Department of Labor Certificate form for obtaining a Youth Employment Certificate:

  • Access Resources: Visit the N.C. Department of Labor’s Youth Employment Certificate webpage for detailed instructions.
  • Completing the Form: It's best to complete the application at the employer’s location to ensure accurate job descriptions and ABC permit requirements.
  • Signatures Required: The completed certificate must be signed by the youth, their parent, and the employer for it to be valid.
  • Submit on Time: Provide the signed certificate to the employer on or before the first day of work.
  • Verification Needed: Employers must verify the youth’s age, job duties, and any restrictions before employment starts.
  • Retention Policy: Employers must keep the certificate for two years after employment ends or until the youth turns 20.
  • Exceptions Apply: Governmental, agricultural, and domestic employers don't need to obtain state youth employment certificates for those under 18.
  • Federal Regulations: Youth employment may still be subject to federal child labor provisions, so it’s important to be aware of specific regulations associated with certain jobs.

For more information or if you have questions, contact the Wage and Hour Bureau or the U.S. Department of Labor.