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Child labor — Tennessee

Tennessee and federal law regulate the employment of minors under age 18 by restricting the occupations in which they can work and the number of hours they can work each day.

The definition of a child

Except as specifically authorized by the statute, it is illegal to employ a child in Tennessee under 14 years of age. Minors between 14 and 16 years of age may be employed in any gainful occupation which does not interfere with the minor’s schooling, health or well-being and is not otherwise prohibited by statute.

This topic does not apply to employment of a child employed:

  • in housework in the child's home
  • by a parent or guardian in a non-hazardous occupation
  • in agricultural work
  • in the sale or distribution of newspapers
  • in errand and delivery work by foot, bike or public transportation
  • as a musician or entertainer - except per 50-5-106(20)
  • by himself or herself as his or her own employee.

What proof of age is needed...


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