How to Find Fast Food Jobs That Hire at 15: A Complete Guide for Teens and Parents

Introduction: Opportunities for 15-Year-Olds in Fast Food

Teenagers eager to earn their first paycheck often wonder if fast food restaurants will hire them at age 15. While federal and state laws set minimum age requirements, many national and regional chains do offer entry-level positions to responsible young teens. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of where and how 15-year-olds can seek employment in fast food, what to expect from the hiring process, and how to make the most of early work experiences. All information is current as of 2025 and carefully researched to ensure accuracy.

Legal Requirements and Work Permits for 15-Year-Olds

Before applying for a job, it’s essential to understand the legal framework governing teen employment. In the United States, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets the minimum age for non-agricultural work at 14, but restricts the hours and types of work for those under 16. Many states have their own specific regulations that may be stricter than federal law. Most 15-year-olds can work in fast food, but:

• They cannot work more than 3 hours on a school day or 18 hours in a school week.
• They are not allowed to operate hazardous equipment or work in certain kitchen areas.
• Many states require work permits for minors under 16. These are typically obtained through your school or local labor department.

Before starting your search, ask your school counselor or local labor office about specific requirements in your state. You may also need parental permission.

Which Fast Food Chains May Hire at 15?

While many fast food restaurants set their minimum hiring age at 16, some well-known chains do hire 15-year-olds for entry-level positions, depending on state laws and local management discretion. Common examples include:

• Arby’s
• Burger King
• Baskin Robbins
• Chick-fil-A
• Dairy Queen
• KFC
• McDonald’s
• Popeyes
• Subway

The availability of jobs for 15-year-olds varies by location. Some stores may have a policy of hiring at 15, while others may only hire at 16 or older. It’s important to check with the specific restaurant location in your area. You might find that local fast food businesses, ice cream shops, or smaller chains are also open to hiring younger teens [1] , [2] .

How to Search for Fast Food Jobs at 15

Finding a fast food job as a 15-year-old requires persistence and a proactive approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Source: wellkeptwallet.com

1. Make a list of fast food restaurants in your area.
2. Visit each location in person and politely ask if they hire 15-year-olds. Bring a parent or guardian if you feel more comfortable.
3. Ask to speak with the manager about open positions. Even if there are no current openings, leave your contact information for future opportunities.
4. Check company career pages online. Some chains list age requirements in their job postings. For example, you can search for jobs at Burger King or McDonald’s through their official websites or through major job boards like Indeed [4] .
5. Prepare a simple resume that lists your interests, school activities, and any volunteer work. This demonstrates responsibility and initiative.
6. If required, obtain a work permit from your school or state labor department before your first day of work.

Persistence pays off. Not all locations will hire at 15, but many managers appreciate young applicants who show enthusiasm and reliability.

Application Process and Interview Tips for Teens

Once you’ve identified potential employers, the next step is the application process. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare:

Source: reliser.org.pe

• Fill out job applications either online or in person. Make sure to answer all questions honestly, especially regarding your age and availability.
• If invited for an interview, dress neatly and arrive on time. Practice answering common questions, such as “Why do you want to work here?” and “How will you handle busy times?”
• Bring any required documents, such as a work permit or parental consent form.
• Be ready to discuss your schedule. As a student, emphasize your willingness to work evenings or weekends if allowed by law.

Managers are often looking for candidates who are polite, dependable, and eager to learn. Demonstrating these qualities can help you stand out, even with limited experience.

Types of Fast Food Jobs Available to 15-Year-Olds

Most positions open to 15-year-olds are entry-level and focus on customer service and basic food preparation. Common roles may include:

• Lobby or dining area attendant (cleaning tables, sweeping floors, restocking supplies)
• Drive-thru crew member (taking orders, handing out food, basic customer interaction)
• Runner (delivering orders from the kitchen to customers)
• Basic food prep (making sandwiches, assembling salads, scooping ice cream)

Federal law restricts the use of some equipment and prohibits minors from working around hot ovens, fryers, or heavy machinery. Always ask your employer about age-appropriate duties [2] .

Alternative Ways to Build Work Experience

If you find that few fast food restaurants in your area hire at 15, don’t get discouraged. There are alternative ways to gain valuable work experience and earn money:

• Grocery Stores: Some chains hire 14- and 15-year-olds for roles like bagging groceries or collecting carts.
• Entertainment Venues: Arcades, movie theaters, and amusement parks sometimes hire younger teens for ticket sales or concessions.
• Babysitting, Lawn Care, Pet Sitting: These jobs often have flexible hours and allow you to set your own rates. Consider advertising your services in your neighborhood or through family friends [3] .

Volunteering is another excellent way to develop skills and build a resume. Look for opportunities at local community centers, libraries, or non-profits.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Teens searching for fast food jobs may face a few hurdles. Here’s how to address common challenges:

• Minimum Age Requirements: Not all locations hire at 15. If rejected, politely ask if they can recommend other local employers who do.
• Work Permits: If you’re unsure about how to obtain a permit, ask your school office or search for “[Your State] youth work permit” on your state government’s official website.
• Limited Hours: Be upfront about your availability and willingness to work within legal limits. Some employers may be more flexible during school breaks or summer.
• No Openings: If jobs aren’t available now, check back regularly. Turnover is high in the fast food industry, and positions open frequently.

Step-By-Step Guide to Getting Hired at 15

1. Check your state and local labor laws regarding minimum age and work permits.
2. Create a basic resume highlighting school activities and volunteer work.
3. List nearby fast food restaurants and visit them in person to inquire about hiring policies.
4. Apply online where possible, using official company career pages or reputable job boards. For example, you can find openings on Indeed or ZipRecruiter [5] .
5. Be persistent and follow up with managers every couple of weeks.
6. Obtain a work permit if required, and have it ready before your first day.
7. Prepare for interviews by practicing common questions and dressing appropriately.
8. Be honest about your age and availability, and always get parental permission as needed.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Starting your first job at 15 can be a rewarding experience that teaches responsibility, teamwork, and communication skills. While not every fast food restaurant hires at this age, persistence, preparation, and a positive attitude can help you land a position. Remember to check legal requirements, create a strong application, and seek out alternative work experiences if needed. If you have questions about work permits or labor laws, contact your school office or your state’s labor department for guidance.

References

• [1] Credit Donkey (2021). Places That Hire at 15 Years Old.
• [2] Nakase Law Firm (2025). What Restaurants Hire at 14? Updated 2025 List of Jobs for Young Teens.
• [3] CareerVillage (2023). What part time jobs can I get at 15?
• [4] Indeed (2025). Fast Food Part Time 15 Years Old Jobs.
• [5] ZipRecruiter (2025). 15 Year Old Fast Food Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING).