According to the Texas Child Labor Law, the minimum age for employment is 14 years old. However, state and federal laws provide for certain exceptions. It is illegal for children under age 14 to work, except under specific circumstances. The hazardous occupations designated by an asterisk (*) have provisions for employment of persons below the age of eighteen (18), provided applicable apprentice or student-learner certification has been obtained. The Texas Labor Code does not require a certificate of age, but a child who is at least 14 years of age may apply to the Texas Workforce Commission for a certificate of age.
It is important to note that child labor laws apply to all employees who are under 18 years of age. Once a person is 18, they are considered an adult and no longer subject to child labor laws.
In summary, the legal age to work in Texas is 14 years old, with certain exceptions for hazardous occupations and apprentice or student-learner certification.