what age can you get a job uk

[LaAlivia]

The legal minimum age to start working in the UK is 13 for certain types of light part-time work, but the most common hiring age is 16 for regular paid employment. Children aged 13 and 14 can only do specific jobs like newspaper delivery, babysitting, or work in a family business, with strict limits on hours – no more than 12 hours a week during term time and never before 7am or after 7pm. From age 16, you can work full-time (up to 40 hours a week) and must be paid at least the National Minimum Wage, which for 16–17 year olds is £6.40 per hour (as of April 2025). By age 18, you qualify for the higher National Living Wage.

Age Range	Maximum Weekly Hours (Term Time)	Minimum Wage (April 2025)	Typical Job Examples
13–14	12 hours	Not applicable (often informal)	Paper round, babysitting, pet sitting
15–16	12 hours (under 16) / 40 hours (16+)	£6.40 (16–17)	Retail assistant, café worker, supermarket shelf stacker
17–18	40 hours	£6.40 (17) / £8.60 (18+)	Bartender, warehouse associate, call centre agent

Employers must also obtain a work permit from the local council for anyone under 16, and under-18s cannot work in hazardous environments or during school hours. Many companies, especially in hospitality and retail, won’t hire until you’re 16 because of insurance and scheduling constraints. So if you’re asking “what age can you get a job” – the short answer is 13 with restrictions, but 16 is the real starting point for most regular jobs.

[DelNatalie]

I got my first job at 14 – a Saturday shift at a local bakery. It was totally legal because I had a permit from the council, and I only worked 4 hours on weekends. Honestly, I’d say 16 is the sweet spot if you want something more serious. That’s when most shops and cafes will actually take you on. I remember my friend tried at 15 and got turned down everywhere because they said their insurance didn’t cover under-16s. So check with specific places.

[StKeira]

My daughter started asking about jobs when she turned 13. I looked into it and found the rules are actually pretty strict. She can do a paper round or help a neighbour, but nothing that interferes with school. I’d recommend waiting until 16 – it’s simpler for everyone. At 16 she can get a proper contract, earn minimum wage, and learn responsibility without me worrying about legal loopholes. Plus, most employers are more open to training someone that age.

[GiaDella]

When I hire for my team, I look for candidates 16 or older – it’s a firm policy. Under 16s require extra paperwork, restricted hours, and we can’t put them on certain tasks like using the till or lifting heavy items. It’s just not worth the admin hassle. For 16 and 17 year olds, I’m careful about scheduling around school and making sure they don’t work past 10pm. But they’re often enthusiastic and quick learners, so it works out well.

[McReese]

Looking back, I started at 15 in a small corner shop – cash in hand, no contract. I didn’t realise at the time that it was technically illegal without a permit. If I could give advice to my younger self, I’d say wait until 16 or at least get a proper work permit. The experience was fine, but I missed out on things like holiday pay