In California, the number of hours a minor can work depends on their age and whether school is in session: For minors aged 14-15:

• When school is in session:
  • Up to 3 hours per school day
  • Up to 18 hours per week
  • Up to 8 hours on non-school days or days before non-school days
  • Work hours generally allowed between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., extended to 9 p.m. from June 1 through Labor Day
• When school is not in session:
  • Up to 8 hours per day
  • Up to 40 hours per week
  • Work hours between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., extended to 9 p.m. in summer
• Exceptions apply for students in Work Experience Education (WEE) programs, who may work during school hours and up to 23 hours per week, and up to 8 hours on school days

For minors aged 16-17:

• When school is in session:
  • Up to 4 hours per school day
  • Up to 48 hours per week
  • Up to 8 hours on non-school days or days before non-school days
  • Work hours allowed between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m., extended to 12:30 a.m. on evenings before non-school days
• When school is not in session:
  • Up to 8 hours per day
  • Up to 48 hours per week
  • Work hours between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m., extended to 12:30 a.m. on evenings before non-school days

For minors aged 12-13:

• May only work during school holidays and weekends
• Not allowed to work on school days
• Maximum 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week during allowed times
• Work hours between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., extended to 9 p.m. in summer

Additional Notes:

• Minors must have completed 7th grade to work during the school year

• Work permits are generally required for minors under 18

• There are restrictions on hazardous work and night shifts to protect minors' health and education

In summary, minors aged 14-15 can work up to 3 hours on school days and 18 hours per week during the school year, while minors aged 16-17 can work up to 4 hours on school days and up to 48 hours per week. On non-school days and during vacations, minors can work up to 8 hours per day and 40 to 48 hours per week depending on age