35 Best Places and Businesses That Hire You At 15 Years Old Or Less

The best places that hire at 15 are McDonald’s, Dollar Tree, and KFC. The minimum age to work in the United States is 14, but there are few exceptions. For example, 12 years olds can work in some places, like a farm, if they have their parents’ permission.

14 to 15 year olds can work as babysitters, deliver newspapers, servers at restaurants, and attendants at retail stores. Many businesses pay teenagers well and offer fun jobs that have a lot of benefits to them. However, there are limitations on the kind of jobs they can take, their work hours, and work weeks.

What Labor Laws Apply To 15-Year-Olds Or Less? 

35 Best Places and Businesses That Hire You At 15 Years Old Or Less

Labor laws govern the employment of individuals under the age of 16. These laws ensure their protection, education, and general well-being. These laws are from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) under the United States Department of Labor. The FLSA sets guidelines regarding work hours, types of employment, and minimum wage for these young workers.

According to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), 15-year-olds are subject to restrictions on their employment. During the school year, they can work a maximum of 3 hours on school days and up to 18 hours a week. On non-school days, they can work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week. During school vacations, they can work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week.

Regarding the types of work, 15-year-olds can engage in office work, cashiering, bagging groceries, or stocking shelves. However, they cannot work in hazardous occupations, like operating power-driven machinery, working with explosives, or handling toxic substances. Teens cannot also work in alcoholic beverages businesses and jobs that require them to be in public places after 10 pm.

Can 15 year olds work in US? 

Yes, 15-year-olds can work in the United States (US). Still, there are restrictions and limitations from federal and state labor laws. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets guidelines for employing individuals under 16. These guidelines include limits on work hours, types of jobs, and conditions for young workers.

Can 15 year olds work in UK? 

Yes, 15-year-olds can work in the United Kingdom (UK). However, there are regulations in place to protect their rights and ensure their well-being. The laws governing the employment of teenagers in the UK are in the Children and Young Persons Act 1933 and the Employment of Children Regulations 1996.

How Many Hours Can A 15-Year-Old Or Less Work? 

15-year-olds or younger in the United States can work between 3 hours per day and 40 hours per week. In the UK, 15-year-olds or less can work between 2 hours per and 35 hours per week. Generally, the work hours for ages less than 16 years depends on the country and their labor laws.

Here’s a general overview of the maximum work hours for 15-year-olds in the United States and United Kingdom:

1. United States

In the U.S., under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), 15-year-olds can work a maximum of 3 hours per day on school days and up to 18 hours per week during the school year. On non-school days, they can work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week. During school vacations, they can work up to 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week.

2. United Kingdom

In the UK, 15-year-olds are subject to restrictions on the number of hours they can work. During school term, they are limited to working 12 hours per week; on school days, they can perform a maximum of 2 hours per day. During school holidays, they can work up to 35 hours per week.

How Much Can 15-Year-Olds Or Less Earn? 

The minimum wage or earnings for 15-year-olds or younger varies depending on the country and jurisdiction. In the United States, the federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. However, there are certain exemptions and sub-minimum wage rates for 15-year-old workers. The specific sub-minimum wage rates for young workers vary by state and will be lower than the standard minimum wage.

There is no specific minimum wage rate for workers under 16 in the UK. However, employers must pay young workers a fair wage that reflects their age, experience, and the nature of their work.

Benefits of Working at Age 15 or Less

Working at age 15 or less contributes to teenagers’ personal growth and development. It also provides a foundation for their future educational and career paths.

Here are 5 benefits of working at age 15 or less:

1. Skill development

Working at a young age allows individuals to develop essential skills like time management, responsibility, teamwork, and communication. These transferable skills can benefit them throughout their education and future careers.

2. Financial literacy

By earning, young workers understand financial responsibility, budgeting, and the value of money. This early exposure to financial literacy will foster responsible financial habits and help them make informed decisions about saving and spending.

3. Career exploration

Early work experiences allow teens to explore different industries and job roles. This exposure helps them discover their interests, strengths, and passions. It enables them to make more informed career choices in the future.

4. Networking and professional connections

Working at a young age introduces individuals to a network of professionals and colleagues. Building these connections early is advantageous and will lead to mentorship opportunities, recommendations, or future employment prospects.

5. Work ethic and responsibility

Working at the age of 15 or less instils a sense of work ethic, discipline, and responsibility. By understanding the expectations and demands of the workplace, teenagers will develop a strong work ethic.

What Places Hire At 15 Year Old?

What Places Hire At 15 Year Old - 35 Best Places and Businesses That Hire You At 15 Years Old Or Less

McDonald’s, Dollar Tree, KFC and other similar US companies  hire 15 year olds. These companies offer many jobs to 14 and 15 years old who have no experience in many places. They also offer fun jobs for teens to gain experience and earn income.

35 best places that hire you at 15 years old or less:

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1. McDonald’s

McDonald’s is a popular fast-food chain known for its burgers and fries. It offers a structured work environment with opportunities for learning customer service skills and teamwork with teens. The minimum age they hire is 15. McDonald’s pays around $8 to $10 per hour.

Does McDonald’s hire 15 year olds in the UK?

No, McDonald’s does not hire 15-year-olds in the UK. The minimum age to work at McDonald’s in the UK is 16. It is because of the UK’s Working Time Regulations, which restrict the number of hours children under 16 can work.

2. Dollar Tree

Dollar Tree is a retail company that operates discount variety stores. Dollar Tree is a good place for teenagers to work due to its flexible schedules and opportunities for skill development. The age limit is 15, and the hourly pay starts at minimum wage. However, in some states, they pay $15.20

How Old Do You Have To Be to Work at Dollar Tree?

The minimum age to work at Dollar Tree is 15 years old.

3. KFC

KFC is a fast-food restaurant specialize in fried chicken and other related food items. KFC is a good place for teenagers to work due to its opportunities for customer service, teamwork skill development, and employee discounts on meals. The age limit depends on the location. In some places, they hire 15 years old; in others, the minimum is 16. The hourly pay varies according to location but generally starts at a minimum wage of $7.25.

Can you work at KFC at 15 in the UK?

No, you cannot work at KFC at 15 in the UK. The minimum age to work at KFC in the UK is 16.

4. Walmart

Walmart is the world’s largest retail corporation. It is a good place for teenagers to work due to its availability of part-time positions, opportunities for skill development, and employee benefits. The age limit for Walmart hires is 16 years old and around $7.25, the minimum wage.

Can You Work at Walmart at 15?

Yes, you can work at Walmart at 15.

5. Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A is a fast-food restaurant that specializes in chicken-based meals. It offers teenagers a positive work environment and growth opportunities. The minimum age they hire is 14 or 15, depending on state laws. Chick-fil-A pays around $8 to $10 per hour.

6. Six Flags

Six Flags is a central amusement park and entertainment company. It offers fun jobs for teens and a dynamic work atmosphere which allows them to interact with guests and gain experience in the hospitality industry. The minimum age they hire is 14 or 15, depending on state laws. $7.25 is their pay per hour.

7. Kroger

Kroger is a large grocery store chain. They offer many jobs for teens with no experience. It provides opportunities to develop customer service and teamwork skills in a retail environment. Their minimum age is 14 or 15, depending on state laws. Kroger’s pay usually starts around $7.25 per hour, the minimum wage.

8. Publix

Publix is a supermarket chain with employee-friendly culture. Teens working at Publix learn valuable customer interaction and teamwork skills. The minimum age they hire is 14 or 15, depending on state laws. Their payment varies but generally starts at minimum wage.

9. Lifeguards at Local Pools

Many local community pools hire teens as lifeguards. It offers an opportunity to develop strong communication skills and gain valuable training in water safety. Local pools only employ 15 or 16, depending on the location. Their payment usually starts around $10 per hour.

10. Babysitting

Many people employ teens as babysitters. Babysitting allows them to develop responsibility, trust, and caregiving skills. The minimum age for this role is 12 or 13. The payment for this job is by negotiation with the families. However, many employers pay $10 per hour.

11. Pet Sitting/Dog Walking

Caring for pets and offering dog walking services is a flexible and rewarding job for young individuals. It allows teens to express their responsibility and love for animals. The minimum age requirement for this role is 15. Payment is often by agreement with the pet owners. However, most pet owners offer $10 or $15 per hour, and they will require you to prove your love for pets.

12. Camp Counselor

Many summer camps hire young individuals as counselors or junior counselors. Summer camps have a variety of jobs for teens with no experience. This role allows teenagers to develop leadership skills and create memorable experiences. Depending on the camp, the minimum age requirement is 14 or 15 years old. The pay rate depends on the responsibilities. However, many camps start their payment from $10 or $15.

13. Local Farms

Some local farms hire young individuals to work in harvesting, planting, or animal care. It allows teenagers to learn about agriculture and develop a strong work ethic. The minimum age for this role is 14 or 15 years old. Pay per hour: Varies, depending on the farm and the specific tasks performed.

14. Movie Theaters

Movie theaters often hire young individuals for ticket sales, concessions, or ushering. It offers fun jobs for teens and an engaging work environment. Movie theaters also give them free or discounted movie benefits and opportunities to develop customer service skills. The minimum age they hire is 14 or 15, depending on state laws. Pay per hour for movie theaters is $10 and above.

15. Local Libraries

Libraries often have jobs for 15 years old with no experience. These teenagers can work as library aides or assistants. It provides a quiet and educational work environment, promotes a love for books and learning, and allows individuals to develop organizational and communication skills. Minimum age: 14 or 15 years old, depending on state laws. Their payment per hour starts at around $7.25.

16. Local Restaurants

Many local restaurants hire teenagers as bussers, hosts/hostesses, or dishwashers. It offers an opportunity to gain experience in the foodservice industry, teamwork and customer service, and develop a strong work ethic. Depending on state laws, the minimum age they hire is 14 or 15. Their payment starts at $10 per hour.

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17. Retail Stores

Retail establishments like clothing stores, supermarkets, or specialty shops have jobs for 14 years old with no experience. Teenagers who work here stock shelves, organize merchandise or assist customers. It gives them exposure to the retail industry and opportunities to develop organizational and communication skills. The minimum age for this sector is 14 or 15. Retail stores’ pay starts from $8 per hour.

18. Local Recreation Centers

Recreation centers have many jobs for teens with no experience. They have roles like front desk attendants, program assistants, or facility maintenance. It offers a lively and active work environment and opportunities to develop leadership skills. The minimum age requirement is 14 or 15, depending on state laws. Their payment varies, but it usually starts from the minimum wage.

19. Ice Cream Parlors

Ice cream shops and parlors employ teenagers as scoopers or counter attendants. It provides a fun and tasty work environment and opportunities to learn teamwork. 14 or 15 years old is the minimum age requirement for ice cream parlors. depending on state laws. They also pay $7.25 per hour.

20. Community Centers

Community centers employ teenagers for event support, facility maintenance, or youth program assistance. It creates a platform for them to engage with the community, develop organizational skills, and contribute to community-focused initiatives. Depending on state laws, the minimum age they hire is 14 or 15 years. They pay $7.25 per hour. However, this pay varies from state to state.

21. Golf Courses

Golf courses often hire teenagers for caddying, maintaining the grounds, or working at the pro shop. It provides exposure to the sports industry, opportunities to learn about golf etiquette and develop customer service skills. Golf courses hire teenagers between 14 to 15, depending on state laws. The payment is $8 per hour.

22. Tutoring

Teenagers with solid academic skills can tutor younger students in subjects they excel in. It allows them to share knowledge, develop teaching abilities, and earn income. The minimum age is 15 years. The negotiation and agreement with the families determine the payment. However, many families pay $10 to $20 per hour.

23. Coffee Shops

Coffee shops hire teenagers as baristas or food service assistants. It offers a vibrant work environment and opportunities to learn about coffee preparation and customer service skills. The minimum age requirement is 14 to 15, depending on state laws. Coffee shops pay $7.25 per hour.

24. Park Districts

Local park districts have many jobs for teens who need to gain experience in roles like park attendants, lifeguards, or camp counselors. It provides a nature-filled work environment, opportunities to engage with the community, and develop leadership skills. 14 to 15 years is the minimum age requirement for the role. Their payment varies from one district to another. However, the fee starts at around $7.25, the minimum wage.

25. Bookstores

Bookstores employ teenagers as sales associates or cashiers. It offers an academic and cozy work environment and opportunities to develop an interest in and improve reading. The minimum age requirement is 14 to 15, depending on state laws. The pay per hour starts at around $7.25. 

26. Car Washes

Car wash businesses hire teenagers for cleaning, vacuuming, or customer service. It provides hands-on work experience, opportunities to develop attention to detail, and teamwork skills. The minimum age for car business hire is 14 to 15, depending on state laws. They pay around $10 and $15 pay per hour.

27. Community Gardens

Community gardens offer many jobs for 14 years olds without experience. They can work at local community gardens, assisting with gardening tasks, maintaining the grounds, or organizing events. Community gardens offer a green and environmentally-conscious work environment and opportunities to learn about gardening and sustainable practices.

The minimum age requirement for this role is 14. However, it varies from one community to another. The payment for this role depends on the stipends the managers offer. However, most garden owners pay $10 and above per hour.

28. Museums

Museums employ teenagers as gallery attendants or visitor service representatives. They offer a culturally enriching work environment and opportunities to learn about art, history, or sciences. The minimum age for museums to hire is 14 to 15 years, but it depends on state laws. Pay per hour starts at minimum wage.

29. Sports Arenas/Stadiums

Sports arenas or stadiums always hire teens for ticket sales, concessions, or ushers. It provides an exciting and energetic work environment and opportunities to be part of sporting events. The minimum age for this role is 14 or 15, depending on state laws. The pay per hour is $7.25.

30. Delivery Services

Some local delivery services employ teens with no experience for flyers and newspaper distribution or local advertisements. It offers flexibility, opportunities to develop responsibility, and familiarity with the local community. The minimum age requirement for this section varies. However, many delivery services hire only 15 years old teenagers. They pay around $7.25 per hour.

31. Art and Craft Stores

Art and craft stores often hire teenagers as sales associates or stockers. It provides fun jobs for teams and offers a creative work environment and opportunities to learn about arts and crafts. The minimum age requirement is 14 or 15, depending on state laws. They pay about $7.25 per hour.

32. Spa

Spas are an excellent place for 15-year-olds with no experience and who love to pamper people. Spas offer flexible hours, competitive pay, and the opportunity to work with various spa products. The minimum age to work at a spa is 15. However, some spas prefer 16 years old teenagers. Their pay rate depends on the location, but it starts at the minimum wage.

33. Theme Park

Theme parks are an excellent place for 14-year-olds with no experience and love to have fun. Theme parks offer flexible hours, competitive pay, and the opportunity to work with various activities. The minimum age to work at a theme park is 14 or 15. The pay rate starts from the minimum wage of $7.25. However, some locations pay higher.

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34. Country Club

Country clubs are a great place for teenagers who love the finer things in life. They offer flexible hours, competitive pay, and the opportunity to work with different fun jobs for teens. The minimum age to work at a country club is 15. The pay rate varies depending on the location.

35. Hair Salon

Hair salons are a great place for teenagers who love to do hair. They offer flexible hours, competitive pay, and the opportunity to work with various hair products. The minimum age to work at a hair salon is 16. The pay rate varies depending on the location.

Top 10 Businesses That Hire You at 15 Years Old Or Less 

Top 10 Businesses That Hire You at 15 Years Old Or Less - 35 Best Places and Businesses That Hire You At 15 Years Old Or Less

15-year-olds can find part-time jobs in different businesses, including retail, food service, and entertainment.

Here are the top 10 businesses that hire you at 15 years old or less: 

1. Baskin Robbins

Baskin Robbins is an ice cream chain business that hires teenagers that are 15 years old or less. They offer a fun work environment, and teenagers who work here have opportunities to develop their interpersonal and customer service skills. The minimum age to work at Baskin Robbins is 14 or 15, depending on local labor laws. The pay per hour in Baskin Robbins varies but ranges from minimum wage to a few dollars above it.

2. Ben and Jerry’s

Ben and Jerry’s is an ice cream company known for its unique flavors and social activism. Teenagers working at Ben and Jerry’s benefit from a creative and socially conscious work environment. The minimum age to work at Ben and Jerry’s may vary by location, but it is a minimum of 15 years old. Ben and Jerry’s pay is above the minimum wage of $7.25.

3. Dairy Queen

Dairy Queen is a fast food chain specializing in soft-serve ice cream, burgers, and other treats. Teenagers who work at Dairy Queen have opportunities to acquire experience in food service and customer service skills. The minimum age to work at Dairy Queen is 14 or 15. The pay rate in this company is above the minimum wage.

4. Arby’s

Arby’s is a fast food restaurant chain business. Teenagers working at Arby’s will learn a lot about the fast-paced food industry. The minimum age to work at Arby’s may vary by location but is usually 15 and 16 years old. Arby pays above the minimum wage.

5. Burger King

Burger King is a fast food chain that offers burgers, fries, and other quick-service items. Teens working at Burger King will have more experience in the food industry and develop customer service skills. The minimum age to work at Burger King is 15 years or older. The company pays above the minimum wage.

6. Boston Market

Boston Market is a restaurant chain specializing in rotisserie chicken, homestyle sides, and comfort food. Teenagers working at Boston Market learn about food preparation and service in a casual dining environment. The minimum age to work at Boston Market varies by location but is 15 years old or older. The pay per hour at Boston Market is usually at or above $7.25.

7. Pizza Hut

Pizza Hut is a popular pizza chain serving a variety of pizzas and other Italian-inspired dishes. The company offers opportunities to learn about food service, teamwork, and customer interaction. You must be at least 15 or 16 years old to work here. Pizza Hut pays about $7.25.

8. Rita’s Italian Ice

Rita’s Italian Ice is a business that offers frozen treats, including Italian ice and custard. Rita’s Italian Ice offers many fun jobs for teens and a refreshing work environment while learning about the food service industry. The minimum age to work at Rita’s Italian Ice vary by location but is 15 to 16 years old. The hourly pay at Rita’s Italian Ice exceeds the minimum wage of $7.25.

9. Safeway

Safeway is a grocery store business that offers numerous products and services. Teenagers at Safeway gain experience in customer service, teamwork, and retail operations. The minimum age to work at Safeway is 15 to 16 years old. The pay per hour at Safeway is or above the minimum wage of $7.25.

10. Giant Food

Giant Food is a supermarket chain that provides a variety of groceries and household items. Teenagers working in Giant Food gain valuable experience in the retail industry, develop customer service skills, and learn about inventory management. The minimum age to work at Giant Food is 15 years old. They pay above $7.25 per hour.

Where Do Most 15-Year-olds Work? 

Where Do Most 15-Year-olds Work 

Many 15-year-olds seek employment to gain work experience, earn some money, and develop essential skills. For teenagers looking for where to work, there are many options.

10 best places where most 15-year-olds work:

  1. Fast food restaurants
  2. Grocery stores
  3. Retail stores
  4. Amusement parks or entertainment venues
  5. Movie theaters
  6. Ice cream shops
  7. Local libraries
  8. Summer camps or recreational centers
  9. Pet stores or animal shelters
  10. Local farms or agricultural establishments

What Jobs Pay The Most at 15?

While payment for 15-year-olds is minimal, some positions offer higher pay rates than others.

Top 10 highest paying jobs for 15 year olds:

  1. Lifeguard ($10-15 per hour)
  2. Babysitter ($10-20 per hour)
  3. Tutor ($15-30 per hour)
  4. Pet sitter or dog walker ($10-20 per hour)
  5. Junior camp counselor ($10-15per hour)
  6. Gardening assistant ($10-15 per hour)
  7. Junior restaurant host ($10-15 per hour plus tips)
  8. Junior theater assistant ($10-15 per hour)
  9. Junior car wash attendant ($10-15 per hour plus tips)
  10. Junior office assistant ($10-15 per hour)