FLSA 14–15 RULES APPLY · UPDATED MAY 2026
Jobs for 15 Year Olds
Same rules as age 14, but lifeguarding becomes available in most states — one of the best-paying jobs teens can get. Here's what's open in 2026.
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Lifeguarding unlocks at 15
The American Red Cross requires lifeguards to be at least 15. Getting certified at 15 ($150–175) lets you earn $14–22/hr starting this summer — far above minimum wage. Many pools and YMCAs hire in March for summer positions.
Best Jobs for 15 Year Olds in 2026
FLSA still restricts hours during school. Summer hours: up to 8hr/day, 40hr/week, 7am–9pm.
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LifeguardingTOP PICK
$14–22/hr
Red Cross cert required (~$175). Many pools hire at 15. Opens a $14–22/hr career path.
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BabysittingTOP PICK
$12–18/hr
No permit needed. CPR cert helps. Build recurring clients through neighbors and Care.com.
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Tutoring Younger StudentsTOP PICK
$15–30/hr
Math, reading, and study skills for elementary and middle schoolers. Market through Nextdoor.
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Lawn Mowing / Yard Work
$15–30/hr
5 regular lawns at $45/week = $225/week self-employed. No permit required.
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Pet Sitting / Dog Walking
$15–25/hr
Rover, Wag, or local clients. Flexible hours, recurring income.
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Grocery Store
$9–13/hr
Publix, Kroger, Aldi hire at 14–15. Work permit required. Good first formal job.
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Retail Store
$9–13/hr
Clothing, toy, general retail. Work permit required. Flexible scheduling.
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Library Page / Aide
$9–12/hr
Public libraries often hire at 14–15. Quiet, air-conditioned, consistent hours.
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Car Washing
$15–20/hr
Charge $20–30/car in your neighborhood. 5 cars on a Saturday = $100–150.
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Golf Caddy
$50–150/round
Tips often exceed base pay. Contact your local country club directly for summer openings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What jobs can a 15 year old get?
Same as 14: retail, grocery, libraries, food service (limited), theaters, golf caddying — non-hazardous only. Hour restrictions apply. Self-employment (babysitting, lawn care, tutoring) has no restrictions. Lifeguarding becomes available in most states at 15 with Red Cross certification.
Can a 15 year old be a lifeguard?
Yes — the Red Cross requires guards to be at least 15. Many pools and water parks hire at 15 with certification. It's the best-paying job available to 15 year olds at $14–22/hr. Get certified in April or May to be ready for summer hiring.
What self-employment options are best for 15 year olds?
Babysitting ($12–18/hr), lawn mowing ($15–30/hr), tutoring younger students ($15–30/hr), and pet sitting ($15–25/hr) are the top earners. Building 5 regular clients can earn $1,500–$3,000 in a summer without a work permit.