Homeschool And Work Permits | How to Be Certified

Are you a homeschool parent needing a work permit for your student to obtain a part-time job or internship? Whether your teen wants to earn money, gain experience, or build their resume, understanding how work permits function in your state is key.

Labor laws and work permit requirements vary by state, and while California remains one of the more structured examples, every homeschooling parent should know their responsibilities and options. This guide will walk you through the essentials, using California as a detailed example, while helping you prepare no matter where you live.

Work Permits in General

In most states, students under 18 are required to obtain a work permit before beginning employment, especially if the job is not with a family business. However, there are common exceptions:

• Students who have graduated high school or passed a recognized equivalency exam.
• Self-employed minors
• Minors working for a parent-owned agricultural or domestic business.
• Minors doing occasional jobs like babysitting, yard work, or newspaper delivery.

Work permits are job-specific and non-transferable. A new permit is needed for each new job. Most permits expire five days after the start of the next school year.

Tip: Make sure your student maintains a minimum GPA (generally 2.0 or higher) if required by your state or PSP.

Where Can I Get a Permit?

In most states, permits are issued by:

• The student’s school administrator (public, private, or charter)
• The district or county superintendent
• A certified work experience education teacher or counselor authorized to issue permits.

In California, this process is more defined, and private school administrators (including homeschool PSPs) can be authorized to issue work permits if they complete the self-certification process with the California Department of Education (CDE).

If a student’s school or homeschool administrator is not authorized:

• Contact your local school district superintendent’s office.
• Reach out to your county office of education.
• Use an HSLDA resource if you’re a member (they offer state-by-state breakdowns and legal support)

What This Means for Homeschoolers

Parents are not allowed to issue work permits to their own children, even if they are homeschool administrators. However, homeschool families do have valid options:

Option 1: Enrolled in a PSP or Private Homeschool Academy

If your child is enrolled in a Private Satellite Program (PSP), like 5 Arrow Homeschool Academy, the administrator may already be certified to issue permits. Not all PSPs offer this service, so be sure to ask.

Option 2: Appointing Another Administrator (California Only)

California law allows private schools to appoint additional administrators. If you operate a registered private homeschool, you can add an authorized staff member (not yourself or your spouse) to issue work permits.

“Nothing in the law prohibits a private school from adding new administrators at any time. Thus, a homeschool parent who is the principal of his own family-sized school could add an administrator to his school staff… [who can then become certified to issue permits].”

From HSLDA

Option 3: Use the Local School District or County Office

If none of the above apply, contact your local public school district or county office of education to request a permit. You may need to provide:

• Proof of enrollment
• Transcripts or a report card
• Parental consent
• Employer’s statement of intent

Helpful Resources and State Links

No matter your state, these links will help you locate the correct information for your student:

• U.S. Department of Labor: Employment/Age Certificates by State
• California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement
• HSLDA: Youth Employment Resources (Members-only for legal details and templates)

For California Homeschoolers

California homeschoolers who file a Private School Affidavit (PSA) can legally issue work permits through their school, if the administrator is certified.

To become certified in California:

1. Register your homeschool as a private school with the CDE.
2. Complete the Work Permit Self-Certification Process.
3. Ensure an authorized administrator (not a parent issuing for their own child) is appointed.
4. Use CDE Forms B1-1 and B1-4 to issue permits.

For help with this process or for a homeschool consultation, feel free to contact us. We walk families through becoming certified to issue permits and staying compliant with state labor laws.

My Final Thoughts For You

Work permits are an important part of helping teens take on responsibility while protecting their rights and safety on the job. As a homeschool parent, you have the ability to help your student take that next step, legally and confidently.

Whether you’re in California, Texas, or beyond, know your rights, follow your state’s steps, and get support if needed. We’re here to help at 5 Arrow Homeschool Academy.

important documents and forms (CA Only):

Because California requires specific documentation when issuing or applying for work permits for minors, I have included those below. For the information pertaining to your state (other than California), please visit the department of labor and view the information for your state.

Form B1-1: Statement of Intent to Employ a Minor and Request for a Work Permit – Certificate of Age

Purpose:
This is the first form completed when a minor seeks employment. It must be filled out before the student begins work and submitted to the school (or PSP) administrator authorized to issue the permit.

Who Fills It Out:

• Employer: completes section about job duties, hours, and safety
• Parent or Guardian: signs consent
• Student: provides personal information and signs
• School/PSP Administrator: reviews for compliance

Key Details:

• Lists employer contact info
• Confirms student’s school enrollment
• Must be signed before the actual work permit (B1-4) can be issued

Form B1-4: Permit to Employ and Work

Purpose:
This is the official work permit issued to the student after reviewing the completed B1-1. It is what the student presents to their employer as legal authorization to work.

Who Fills It Out:

• School Administrator or Authorized Issuer only
  • Must be someone authorized through the California Department of Education’s certification process (cannot issue to their own child)

Key Details:

• Specifies work restrictions (hours, days)
• States employer name and job title
• Lists the student’s school, grade level, and DOB
• Expires five days after the start of the next school year or when the job ends

Form B1-8: Work Permit Request for Entertainment Industry

Purpose:
This form is only used for minors working in the entertainment industry (TV, film, modeling, etc.), which has its own set of child labor laws and restrictions in California.

Who Needs This:

• Students seeking work in film, television, theater, commercials, print modeling, etc.

Key Details:

• Includes additional health and schooling requirements
• Often reviewed by the Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE)
• Must be renewed frequently (typically every 6 months)

To access documents to this article you must login and be either a Homeschool Hub member or 5 Arrow Homeschool Academy parent.

If you have any questions, feel free to email me.

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