how old do you have to be to work at olive garden in california

Age Requirements for Olive Garden Jobs in California

By Daniel RobinsonNovember 25, 2025

If you're wondering about the age requirement to work at Olive Garden in California, you're not alone. Many young individuals are eager to start their professional journey in the food industry, and Olive Garden, with its warm atmosphere and delicious Italian-American cuisine, is an attractive option. So, how old do you have to be to work at Olive Garden in California?

First, let's clear up some general information about Olive Garden's hiring policies. Olive Garden, owned by Darden Restaurants, follows federal labor laws regarding the employment of minors. These laws are enforced by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and vary by state. In California, the minimum age to work is 14, but there are certain restrictions and limitations on the types of work and hours minors can perform.

Olive Garden's Minimum Age Requirement

Olive Garden's minimum age requirement is generally 16 years old. This is consistent across all states, including California. However, it's essential to note that this is a starting point, and individual restaurants may have their own policies that could raise the minimum age.

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Olive Garden's policy is in line with California's labor laws, which allow 16 and 17-year-olds to work without any restrictions on the type of work or the number of hours they can work. This means that, in theory, a 16-year-old in California can apply for any position at Olive Garden.

Positions Available for 16-Year-Olds

At 16, you can apply for various positions at Olive Garden, such as:

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Dishwasher
Busser
Food Runner
Host/Hostess
Line Cook (in some cases)

These positions provide valuable experience in the food service industry and can help you develop essential skills like teamwork, communication, and time management.

Positions Requiring 18+

Some positions at Olive Garden require you to be 18 years or older. These include:

Server (waiter/waitress)
Bartender
Kitchen Steward (in some cases)
Management positions

These positions often come with more responsibilities and may require specific skills or certifications.

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California's Labor Laws for Minors

While Olive Garden's minimum age requirement is 16, it's crucial to understand California's labor laws for minors, which may affect your work schedule and the types of jobs you can perform.

For instance, 14 and 15-year-olds can work in certain non-hazardous jobs for limited hours. However, they cannot work during school hours or for more than three hours on a school day or eight hours on a non-school day. They also cannot work before 7 a.m. or after 7 p.m. on a school day or after 9 p.m. on a non-school day.

Permits and Certifications

Minors in California may need to obtain a work permit from their school. Additionally, some positions may require specific certifications, such as a food handler's card or a responsible alcohol service certification (RAS).

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Always check with your local Olive Garden restaurant and the California Department of Industrial Relations for the most accurate and up-to-date information on labor laws and requirements.

In conclusion, the minimum age to work at Olive Garden in California is generally 16 years old. However, it's essential to understand the specific requirements and restrictions that may apply to your situation. Always check with the local Olive Garden restaurant and familiarize yourself with California's labor laws for minors. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can start your career in the food industry and gain valuable experience at Olive Garden.