Summer Jobs and Work Permits

Looking for a summer job? Are you between the ages of 12 and 17? You will need to get a work permit and go through the proper steps to have it verified in addition to setting up job interviews with propective employers and finding that perfect summer job. But relax - this can all be completed in a few days' time if done correctly.

Getting a work permit is far less complicated than you may think. Many public high schools have work permits on hand in the administration office, the counselors' offices, or perhaps even the school library. Complete the necessary information on the form, such as your full name, your home address, your phone number, your Social Security Number, your school name and address, emergency contact information, and additional details. Visit your hopeful employer and ask him, her or them to complete the second part of the form. Parents or guardians are required to fill out and sign the bottom of the form. Now the form should be complete, and you may turn it in to your school. In as little as two days - forty-eight hours - you may have a finalized, typed work permit in your hand. It is as easy as that!

Your new workplace will need to verify your work permit as well, so bring it along when they ask it of you. This may be on your first full day or during training sessions. Whatever the case, it is also recommended that you make photocopies of the work permit so you may keep additional copies at home, just in case. If you change jobs, you will need to get a new work permit for your new workplace. If you have a job over the summer than continues into the fall, you will need a new work permit for the new school year, as your summer permit will expire five days after school begins.

If you are under 12 and want to make a little bit of pockey money, there are plenty of jobs that are more personal and more appropriate for your age which do not require a work permit. These jobs can sow the seeds of small business while providing plenty of summertime fun.