Labor Law and Work Permits for New Jersey.

Do you know the child actor labor laws for your state? If you’re looking to pursue a career in entertainment for your child or if you are an entertainment industry professional looking to employ a child in your production, it is important that you know the child actor labor laws in both your home state and any state in which you intend to work.

  • YES

    The state of New Jersey has extensive laws governing the employment of minors working in theatrical production. Theatrical production includes stage, motion picture, television performances and rehearsals therefor. N.J.S.A. 34:2-21.57 et seq.

    Click Here for General Information on Employing Minors in NJ

  • YES

    As stipulated in the New Jersey Child Labor Law [N.J.S.A. 34:2-21.57 through N.J.S.A 34:2-21.64, inclusive], all minors working in Theatrical Productions in New Jersey, whether paid or unpaid, are required to provide their employer with a permit.

    Click here for the application for Minor Theatrical Employment for parents

  • YES

    The State of New Jersey requires any production company employing a minor to complete the Theatrical Production Application Form. Employers must:

    * Include details on dates, times, locations and what the minor will be doing.

    * Maintain copies of Minor Entertainment Permit or Certificate

    Click here for the Application to Employ Minors in a Theatrical Production

  • YES

    As of August 1, 2026, New Jersey requires the establishment of a trust account for the earnings of child performers.

  • YES

    Production is required to provide a teacher from the third missed day of school through the end of the minors employment.

    The teacher must be credentialed to the level of education required by State law.

  • NO

    The state of New Jersey does not require talent agents to hold talent agency licenses, employment agency licenses or to be bonded by the state.

  • NO

    The state of New Jersey does not recognize graduated minors as “legal 18”.

  • Charles Ricciardi

    New Jersey Motion Picture & TV Commission (charles.ricciardi@njeda.gov / 609-404-8984)

    NJ DOL Wage & Hour Division (whtheatrical@dol.nj.gov / 609-292-7880)