New Jersey Teens Set to Receive Working Papers Online from June 1: A Forward Step for Young Workforce

MORRISTOWN, NJ - The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) is set to roll out a new digital application system for teenagers seeking working papers starting June 1, a move that promises to streamline the process for young workers and their employers.

The new online platform, MyWorkingPapers.nj.gov, will facilitate easy access to work permits for any minors under 18 who need working papers for employment within New Jersey, and employers hiring workers of this age group. This initiative is aligned with the implementation of A4222/S2796, a law introduced by Gov. Murphy last year to strengthen protections for the state’s youth workers.

This reform eliminates the need for school involvement, but maintains active participation from minors, employers, and caregivers in the process. Each party will receive email notifications at each step of the process, ensuring clear communication and timely action.

Labor Commissioner Robert Asaro-Angelo lauded the initiative, citing its efficacy and convenience as significant improvements over the previous system. He also highlighted how the digital application process enables NJDOL to connect with minors and their caregivers about career and apprenticeship opportunities and educate them about their work rights at the start of their professional journey.

To further explain, the new application process is as follows:

Minors and their employers must register at MyWorkingPapers.nj.gov.
Employers will receive a unique 8-digit code to share with each minor they hire.
Minors complete the application online, including their caregiver’s contact information and the employer's 8-digit code, which associates the application with a specific employer.
Employers and caregivers will be prompted via email to complete their parts of the application and provide required signatures. Caregivers will also need to upload an official document verifying the minor’s age.
Upon approval of the application, the minor can start their job.

In line with its mission to serve and safeguard the state’s workforce, NJDOL has also curated a host of online resources and services catered to young workers. The resources include resume writing and interviewing skills tips, child labor laws, wage details, permissible work hours, and types of work minors can undertake.

NJDOL encourages anyone who requires working papers before June 1 to visit their young worker hub to obtain the paper form. For further details about this online service, please refer to MyWorkingPapers.nj.gov.

This innovative approach not only aligns with the digital age, but also simplifies the entire process of obtaining working papers for young people in New Jersey, opening up more opportunities for them to contribute to the local economy, and stepping up in their personal and professional growth.