Public Act 90 of 1978, the Youth Employment Standards Act (YESA), as amended, defines a minor as someone who is less than 18 years of age, including but not limited to employees, volunteers, independent contractors and performing artists.

Minors under 18 years of age must obtain a work permit or a written agreement or contract entered into between the employer and the governing school district, public school academy, or nonpublic school before starting work. 

Work permits can be obtained from the state of Michigan school issuing officer (the chief administrator of a school district, intermediate school district, etc.) of the school the minor attends or the school district where the minor will be employed.

If the minor changes jobs, a new work permit is required for the new employer. 

A work permit may be revoked for poor academic performance.

A work permit is required even if the minor is home/cyber/virtual/online schooled, does not attend school, or is an out-of-state resident.