How Old Do You Have to Be to Work at a Restaurant in Michigan?
Restaurants are one of the most common first jobs for Michigan teens. If you are 14, 15 or 16 and wondering whether you can get hired, the short answer is usually yes, with a few rules. Here is what to know about the minimum age, work permits and which jobs younger teens can do.
This is a plain-language overview, not legal advice. Youth employment rules can change and specific situations vary, so confirm the current requirements with the restaurant and your school before you start.
The minimum age is usually 14
In Michigan, 14 is generally the youngest you can be for most non-hazardous restaurant work. That opens the door to entry-level roles like host, busser and dishwasher, all jobs that train on the spot and are perfect for a first paycheck. Younger children generally cannot be employed in these roles.
Teens under 18 need a work permit
Michigan requires a work permit for most workers under 18. The process is simple: once a restaurant offers you a job, your school arranges the permit. You do not need it before you apply, it comes after you are hired. Keep this in mind so you are ready to hand the paperwork to your school once you get the offer.
Hour limits for 14 and 15-year-olds
The youngest workers have the tightest limits. In general, 14 and 15-year-olds cannot work during school hours, cannot work late into the evening, and are capped on total weekly hours, especially while school is in session. Those limits loosen in summer. Sixteen and 17-year-olds can work more hours and later, but still have some protections. Because the details matter, ask the manager how they schedule minors before you accept.
Roles by age
- 14-15: Host, busser, dishwasher, and other non-hazardous support roles, with hour limits.
- 16-17: The same roles plus more responsibility and hours; some kitchen roles like prep and line work may open up, though certain equipment is restricted.
- 18+: Full range, including roles that involve alcohol such as bartender and serving alcohol as a server.
A restaurant is a great first job
Beyond the paycheck, a restaurant teaches teamwork, time management and how to handle customers, skills that help with every job after. Entry-level roles are almost always hiring, so you rarely need experience. When you are ready, read how to apply for restaurant jobs near you and our interview tips. Students should also see our guide to part-time and student restaurant jobs.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, 14 is generally the minimum for non-hazardous roles like host, busser and dishwasher. A work permit is required, and there are hour limits for that age.
No. The permit is arranged through your school after a restaurant offers you the job, so you can apply first.
Generally 18 to serve or handle alcohol in Michigan, so bartending is not open to younger teens.
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