Working papers (working permits) are legal documents that give students the privilege of working in accordance with State child labor laws.
The State gives the School District of Lancaster (SDoL) the authority to administer working permits ONLY to students who reside within the SDoL jurisdiction and then according to SDoL policies and/or procedures.
Working Permit Hours and Class Schedule Requirements
Working permit business shall not interfere with SDoL students’ scheduled classes. Students who are enrolled in a school other than an SDoL school may apply during regular working permit service hours.
Who Needs a Working Permit
Working permits are issued only to students 14 through 17 years of age, including those who have been expelled or withdrawn. Students 18 years old or older are not required to have working permits.
First-Time Working Permit Application Requirements
The first time a working permit application is begun in this district, the parent/guardian must be present with the following documents:
- Student’s birth certificate, baptismal certificate, or passport
- Proof of residence (a current PPL or UGI bill, or lease with the parent/guardian’s name)
- Parent/Guardian driver’s license or State photo ID card
- Parent must bring the student if the student does not attend an SDoL school, and bring documentation of enrollment in school or home school documentation. Parent/guardians who cannot be present for the first application may designate another adult who must present a notarized letter authorizing their representation.
Students Who Do Not Attend an SDoL School
Once the sections of the work permit application have been completed by the student’s employer, the student may return without the parent/guardian to the SDoL work permit office.
The student must return every completed application in person. Applications may not be returned in the mail or by another party. The student must wait to sign the application in the presence of the issuing officer.
If a Parent/Guardian Cannot Be Present
Parent/guardians who cannot be present for the first application may designate another adult who must present a notarized letter authorizing their representation.
Returning a Completed Working Permit Application
Once the sections of the work permit application have been completed by the student’s employer, the student may return without the parent/guardian to the SDoL work permit office.
The student must return every completed application in person. Applications may not be returned in the mail or by another party. The student must wait to sign the application in the presence of the issuing officer.
Applying for a Transferable Working Permit
After receiving the first working permit, the student may apply for a transferable working permit (for another employer) without a parent/guardian present. Students may pick up paperwork with an ID.
Address Verification for Transferable Permits
The student’s address is verified and updated each time a transferable working permit is issued.
Blue Card Work Permits and Job Changes
All students will receive the blue card work permit. If an employee get terminated, we usually get a letter from the employers. No need to change permit.
Working Permit Records and Student Age Requirements
After the student turns 18 years old, the papers are moved from the active files to the inactive files. All working papers must be kept on file until a student turns 21 years old.