Info – Studio Teacher

Do I need to hire a Studio Teacher if my shoot is on the weekend? In the summer? On a non-school day? If I can't afford one? If the minor will only be used for 2-3 hours? If the parent/guardian will be with the minor?

Yes, to all of the above. The CA Child Labor Law requires a licensed Studio Teacher to be on set whenever a minor is employed (Paid or Unpaid). Studio Teachers are responsible for the safety, welfare and education of minors. That includes weekends, holidays and summer. A parent or guardian must ALSO be on set at all times with a minor, in addition to a Studio Teacher. The laws apply to minors working a few hours or all day.

Do I need an actual Studio Teacher or can I hire my friend, who is a regular school teacher? How do i know if the person I hire is a licensed Studio Teacher?

You must hire a CA certified Studio Teacher, with a valid “green card” from the DLSE. you should ask to see the teacher;s license before hiring a studio teacher. You can look up licensed Studio Teachers on the DLSE’s website (the link is on the Resources page on this website).

Working Hours of Minors

General Information

no more than 8 hours in one day of 24 hours
no more than 48 hours in one week
no earlier than 5 a.m.
no later than 10 p.m. on evening preceding school day
no later than 12:30 a.m. on evening preceding non-school day
one day’s rest in seven (Labor Code 551)