Actor Kids 101: Work Permits, Paperwork, and More

Kids are a part of movies, because kids are a part of stories! We often cast kiddos (anyone under 16-years-old) in our projects, which means more paperwork to make sure those kids are safe, and have permission to be on set. Part of that paperwork is a work permit. Here's more information about permits and the steps to getting one for your kiddo:

What's a work permit?

Work permits for minors in film is a document from the school or education board that allows a child to work on set. In order to comply with Illinois Child Labor Law 820 ILCS 205/12, parents/guardians must secure a permit from the child's school, district, or IBES.

How to obtain a work permit

Usually, parents/guardians can go to their school, and request one from the principal's office. If it's out of the school year, and walking in isn't an option, you can contact the Illinois Bureau of Education (IBES) at workpermit@isbe.net. Skip to the bottom to get more information about out of school IBES needs!

• Letter of Intent - This comes from the hiring casting office, like us. We'll write a letter of intent to employ on our letterhead, stating the kind of work the minor will be performing, the schedule, and updating project information (like title, producers, etc.) on these letters each time we book them on a new project.

• The Original Proof of Age - An original birth certificate is preferred, but if that's not available, IBES will also accept passports, notice of birth registrations, insurance policies, and Baptismal certificates

• Original Social Security Card for the kiddo

• The Parent/Guardian's Drivers License (make sure it's valid 😅)

• Parent Approval - We've got you covered! We write an approval letter for you to review and sign for each project, and we'll send it to you when we're able to book.

• Medical Statement (Doctor's Note) - You'll need an up-to-date (within the last 365 days) physical fitness form to be filled out, and signed, by your GP.

• Letter from the Principal - When school is in session, you can ask for this at the same time as the permit. This is a signed letter from the school, on their letterhead, stating that the kiddo is active and in good standing academically, and to verify their age.

Documents you'll need to take to set

Some sets will ask you to upload your work permit and paperwork to a platform before you get there, and others will ask you to fill paperwork out on set. We always recommend keeping a copy of your work permit with you. Our office will always do our best to get you the info you need, but feel free to ask casting and production if you ever have any questions about paperwork.

Out of School Hours & Other Cases

When school isn't in session, you can meet with an IBES rep virtually. These sessions are with the child being hired, and the rep will talk about the above documentation needed, how to submit those documents, and any next steps.

Assuming the documents are turned in, the permit will be issued electronically to the guardian, and the Illinois Department of Labor will get a copy at the same time. Permits are valid to this employer for up to one year.

As always, if you ever have questions more than the Latest can help with, please book a consultation with me, or with Lauren. Filmmaking is fun, but only if folks feel safe!

-- Sarah