Work experience can be an important part of a young person’s development. With role with more responsibility, student employment builds confidence, accountability, and financial literacy. But before students can get to work, there’s one important step they must take: obtaining working papers.
Working papers, also called working permits, are legal documents that give students between the ages of 14 and 17 the ability to work in accordance with Pennsylvania child labor laws. The State of Pennsylvania authorizes public school districts, including SDoL, to process and issue these permits to residents who live within our district boundaries.
Here’s what families need to know about the process:
When and where to apply
Working papers are issued year-round, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at both the J.P. McCaskey High School and McCaskey East main offices, on days the District is open. To begin, applicants or their parent/guardian should call 717-291-6211 or email campusworkpermits@sdlancaster.org.
Students who are currently attending an SDoL school must apply outside of their scheduled class time. Students who attend a school outside the district (including charter, private, or homeschool settings) may apply during regular service hours but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
What to bring for the first application
The first time a student applies for a working permit, the parent or guardian must be present and must bring the following:
-
The student’s original birth certificate, baptismal certificate, or passport
-
Proof of residence, such as a current PPL or UGI bill or a lease in the parent/guardian’s name
-
A parent or guardian’s driver’s license or State-issued photo ID
If the parent or guardian cannot be present, they may designate another adult to accompany the student by providing a notarized letter authorizing their representation.
If the student does not attend an SDoL school, they must also bring documentation of school enrollment or verification of homeschooling.
Completing the process
Once a student’s application has been initiated, they must return the completed employer section of the permit in person, without the parent/guardian. The student is required to sign the application in the presence of the issuing officer. Permits cannot be returned by mail or submitted by someone else.
After the initial permit has been issued, students may later apply for a transferable work permit for a different employer without needing their parent or guardian present. In these cases, they simply need to bring their ID and ensure their address is current.
Other Important Information
-
All students will receive the official blue card work permit.
-
If a student is terminated from a job, no new permit is required unless they are switching to a new employer.
-
Once a student turns 18, their paperwork is moved from active to inactive files and retained until the age of 21.
We understand that the working permit process may feel unfamiliar, especially to families navigating it for the first time. Our staff is here to help every step of the way. Whether students are saving for college, supporting their families, or learning new skills, we are proud to help them take this important step toward independence and opportunity.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 717-291-6211 or email campusworkpermits@sdlancaster.org.