New Mexico Rules for Employing Minors

Employers in New Mexico must conform with these state rules relating to the employment of minors.

In New Mexico, a minor between the ages of 14 and 16 may not be employed or permitted to labor at any gainful employment during the school term unless the minor has been issued an employment certificate.

An employer who employs a minor under the age of 18 as an actor or performer in the entertainment industry must obtain a pre-authorization certificate from the Department of Workforce Solutions prior to the start of work.

Employment Certificate Exceptions

A child under the age of 16 may be employed without obtaining a work permit under the following circumstances, with restrictions:

• by a parent in an occupation other than manufacturing or mining or other occupations found to be particularly hazardous or detrimental to the health of children under the age of 16;
• as an actor or performer in motion picture, theatrical, radio or television productions; or
• to sell or deliver newspapers.