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Can a minor work in a theatrical or modeling job in Washington State?

A young person may work as an actor or model in the film, television, radio, modeling or photography business in Washington State under certain conditions. These conditions apply if the minor is working in Washington — regardless of where they live.

• Hours of Work - The hours the youth may work must adhere to those listed in the chart on the "Hours of Work" page.
• Prohibited work activities - The minor must not be asked or allowed to perform any of the dangerous occupations or tasks listed on Restricted duties for teen workers.

What the employer needs to do

1. Complete a Master Business Application with Minor Work Endorsement for Washington State, if you haven't already done so.
   Even if you already have a Master Business Application, you must still apply for a Minor Work Endorsement. You may complete this application online.
   
   In a hurry? If you personally deliver it to a state office, a Uniform Business Identification (UBI) number and temporary Minor Work Endorsement (minor work permit) can be prepared for you within 24 hours. Click here for a list of locations. The cost is $15.

2. Have the parents complete a Parent/School Authorization form. If the child is attending school, a school signature is also required.
   
3. Complete an Application for Minor Work Variance if any of the following apply:
   • The minor is under age 14;.
   • The minor will be working during school hours.
   • The minor will be working additional hours beyond the limits allowed for those under age 18. See the chart for Hours of Work.
   A variance will not be granted for the prohibited duties described in the regulations since they are considered to be dangerous for those under age 18. Review the list of Prohibited Duties to make sure you understand these restrictions.

   
   The employer will need:

   • Their UBI number (from the Master Business Application)
   • Evidence of the Minor Work Endorsement (also from the Master Business Application)
   • The completed Parent/School Authorization form.
   • To describe the work the child will be doing and the hours of work
4. Labor & Industries recommends that the National Screen Actors’ Guild (SAG) guidance be followed for other conditions of work not addressed by Labor & Industries’ child labor regulations”.  Please see CBA Section 50 - Employment of Minors (339 KB PDF) and Table of Recommended Hours of Work (226 KB PDF) for more information.

In a hurry? You may mail your completed paperwork to the Department of Labor & Industries, P.O. Box 44510 Olympia, Washington 98501-4510. Or FAX it to 360-902-5300.

L&I can prepare the variance within 24 hours.

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For more information, see the Revised Code of Washington:
Actors or performers — Work permits and variances for minors (RCW 49.12.124).

If you have any questions, please call 360-902-5316 or e-mail teensafety@Lni.wa.gov.