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Exemption applications
The following applications for child labor exemptions are fillable PDF files. All fields must be complete on the form or the permit application will not be approved. You may type in responses directly into the PDF or print and complete it by hand. Once the form is completed in its entirety, submit it through email to cl.permit.dli@state.mn.us or by mailing it to the Department of Labor and Industry, 443 Lafayette Road N., St. Paul, MN 55155.
Exemption applications to employ children must demonstrate extremely exceptional circumstances that warrant an exemption to child labor laws. Requests that violate federal child labor laws will be denied.
A 14- or 15-year-old who wants to work during school hours should get an employment certificate from their school district, not an exemption application from the Department of Labor and Industry. Homeschooled students must also obtain a certificate from their school district. Requirements for an employment certificate may be found in Minnesota Statutes § 181A.05.
Please allow a minimum of five business days for review of your application.
Statutory authority
The following constitutes the authority and terms under which exemptions may be granted to the provisions of the Child Labor Standards Act by the commissioner of Labor and Industry:
181a.07 Exemptions
Subd. 5. The commissioner may grant exemptions from any provisions of sections 181A.01 to 181A.12 for an individual minor if the commissioner finds that such an exemption would be in the best interest of the minor involved. Such exemptions shall be granted only in accordance with the established rules of the department.
Subd. 6. Any minor’s parent of guardian, school official, or youth employment specialist may request an exemption as provided in subdivision 5.
History: 1974 c 432 s 7; 1975 c 204 s 78; 1976 c 2 s 72; 1985 c 248 s 70; 1986 c 444
5200.0940 Special exemption permit
The commissioner may grant exemptions from any provisions of the act, pursuant to Laws of Minnesota 1974, chapter 432, section 7, subdivision 5, for any individual minor when it is determined that said exemption is in the best interest of a minor in accordance with both of the following:
A. The minor has a special talent, unique qualifications, or special need for the particular employment for which the exemption is sought; and
B. The health, education, or welfare of the minor will not be detrimentally affected by the employment or by the environment in which the employment is to be conducted.
Statutory Authority: MS s 181A.09
5200.0590 Exemption permit application
Each permit application shall specify:
A. name of minor;
B. address of minor
C. address of parent(s) or guardian(s) if different from item B;
D. a description of the proposed employment;
E. proposed dates of employment from beginning to end;
F. particular section(s) of the act for which an exemption is sought.
Statutory Authority: MS s 181A.09
5200.0960 Revocation of permit
The commissioner may revoke any permit when in his opinion the employment, of the child in such employment is detrimental to said minor’s health, education, or welfare.
Statutory Authority: MS s 181A.09
No provisions of a permit issued under these sections shall excuse noncompliance with any other state or federal law or municipal ordinance establishing high standards. For more information on federal laws, contact the federal wage and hour division at 612-370-3371.