New York State Digital Working Papers Initiative
Key Performance Indicators and Usage
92%
Digital Working Papers Issuance Completion Rate (2025)
3 days
Average Permit Processing Time (2025)
14,300
Working Papers Processed Monthly (2025)
66,000
Total Teens Served Annually (2025)
49%
Increase in Working Paper Applications (2025 vs 2023)
Digital Working Papers Modernization Overview
New York has transitioned the work permit system for minors (14-17 years old) from a paper-based process to a fully digital platform launched in early 2025. This new system simplifies permit applications, allows digital verification by employers and schools, and provides clear guidance on child labor laws.
- All applications now completed online with automatic parent/guardian approval workflows.
- Employers verify permits digitally, eliminating lost or missing paperwork issues and related fines.
- Applicants, caregivers, employers, and schools access a one-stop portal with integrated resources and status updates.
- New portal offers up-to-date information on legal work hours, safety guidelines, and labor protections for minors.
This transformation aims to increase youth workforce participation by reducing administrative burden and enhancing compliance.
Working Papers Usage and Processing Data (2023 vs 2025)
| Metric | 2023 (Paper-Based) | 2025 (Digital System) | Percent Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Permit Processing Time (Days) | 10 | 3 | −70% |
| Monthly Working Papers Processed | 9,600 | 14,300 | +49% |
| Annual Teens Served | 44,800 | 66,000 | +47% |
| Percent Digital Adoption | 64% | 92% | +28 percentage points |
| Employer Verification Compliance | 76% | 97% | +21 percentage points |
Youth Employment Landscape and Related Supports
- New York State’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) connects youth aged 14-24 to paid internships and job training, serving over 75,000 youth annually.
- The digital working papers modernization integrates with SYEP application platforms to streamline eligibility verification.
- NYSDOL’s Workforce Scheduler launched in 2025 supports appointment management, workshop sign-ups, and personal career counseling.
- Expanded employer-led apprenticeship initiatives provide on-the-job training for youth transitioning into skilled labor.
- Child labor laws strengthened with proportional penalties, ensuring protection without excessive burden on employers.
| Program | 2025 Participant Count | Year-over-Year Growth |
|---|---|---|
| Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) | 75,500 | +8% |
| Registered Apprenticeships (Youth) | 15,200 | +12% |
| Workforce Scheduler Users | 22,500 | New in 2025 |
Data sourced from New York State Department of Labor and NYC Department of Youth and Community Development, 2023-2025.
Working Papers Application Process and Resources
- Applicants aged 14-17 must obtain an employment certificate (“working papers”) before legally working.
- In the digital system, applications can be completed online through the Department of Labor portal.
- Required documentation includes proof of age (ID, birth certificate), school enrollment verification, and parental consent.
- Employers must verify working papers digitally and keep electronic records, eliminating fines for missing physical documents.
- Minors retain their digital certificates accessible via a secure portal and receive digital reminders on expiration.
- Additional support is provided via city and school district offices including guidance counselors and district family advocates.
For detailed instructions, visit the NYSDOL Working Papers page and NYC DOE Working Papers site.