If someone is searching how old do you have to be to work at Target, they are usually looking for a simple, honest answer before applying.
The clear answer is this: Target typically hires starting at age 16 for most store roles, while some positions require applicants to be 18 or older.
For students, parents, and first-time job seekers, that answer often raises more questions. Which jobs can teens actually do? Why does age matter so much? And what does working at Target really look like day to day?
This guide explains Target’s age requirements in a calm, practical way, so readers can decide whether applying makes sense for their situation.
Quick Answer: Target Minimum Age Requirements
The minimum age to work at Target is 16 years old for most entry-level roles, including Cashier (Guest Advocate) and Stocker (General Merchandise).
However, you must be at least 18 years old for specialized roles like Fulfillment, Asset Protection, and Distribution Center positions.
| Role Category | Minimum Age |
| In-Store (Cashier, Sales, Food Service) | 16 |
| Fulfillment & Backroom | 18 |
| Distribution Centers & Warehouse | 18 |
| Management & Leadership | 18 |
What Is the Minimum Age to Work at Target?
The minimum age to work at Target is 16 years old for most in-store positions. This applies to the majority of entry-level roles found in local Target stores across the United States.
Target sets this age requirement to stay aligned with U.S. labor laws and to ensure team members can safely perform their duties.
Retail environments involve constant movement, customer interaction, and sometimes equipment use, so the company follows a standard that works nationwide.
As one store manager might explain it informally:
“We want young team members to succeed here, and starting at 16 helps us train them safely and schedule them responsibly.”
What Are the Best Target Jobs for 16 and 17-Year-Olds?
Yes, Target does hire 16- and 17-year-olds, and many high school students get their very first job there. These roles are usually part-time and structured around school schedules.
Teen employees are commonly placed in customer-facing or sales-support roles that focus on communication, organization, and teamwork.
These positions help younger workers learn how retail operates without putting them in situations that involve higher safety risks.
A common experience shared by teen employees sounds like this:
“It was my first job, and they didn’t expect me to know everything. They trained me and worked around my school hours.”
These early roles often become stepping stones to more responsibility once the employee turns 18.
Can You Work at Target at 14 or 15 Years Old?
Although federal labor laws allow limited work at age 14 or 15, Target generally does not hire 15-year-olds for standard store positions.
This is a company policy choice rather than a legal requirement. Large retailers like Target prefer consistent rules across all locations, which simplifies training, scheduling, and compliance.
At 16, employees are legally allowed to work longer hours and perform a wider range of tasks.
In practical terms, this policy helps avoid confusion for both employees and managers.
Why Do Some Target Jobs Require You to Be 18 or Older?
Not all Target roles are the same. Some positions involve physical demands, equipment, or responsibilities that are legally restricted for minors.
Jobs that typically require employees to be 18 years old or older may include:
- Fulfillment roles with full responsibilities
- Stockroom and backroom positions
- Overnight or very early morning shifts
- Security-related roles
- Leadership or management tracks
As Target might describe it internally:
“Some roles require adult-level availability, physical capability, and legal clearance.”
This age distinction exists for safety, efficiency, and legal compliance, not to discourage younger applicants.
How Do Age Requirements Differ by Job Role at Target?
The difference between 16+ and 18+ roles becomes clearer when looking at job expectations.
Target Job Age Requirements by Department
| Job Title | Min. Age | Department | Primary Responsibility |
| Guest Advocate | 16 | Front End | Cashier, returns, and guest service. |
| General Merchandise | 16 | Sales Floor | Stocking shelves and organizing aisles. |
| Starbucks Barista | 16 | Food Service | Preparing drinks and food in-store. |
| Specialty Sales | 16 | Style/Beauty/Tech | Expert product knowledge and sales. |
| Fulfillment Expert | 18 | Digital/Backroom | Picking orders and packing shipments. |
| Asset Protection | 18 | Security | Safety, security, and theft prevention. |
| Warehouse/DC | 18 | Distribution | Heavy equipment and freight handling. |
This structure allows Target to offer opportunities to teens while still protecting them from tasks they legally should not perform.
State-Specific Rules: Do You Need a Work Permit?
While Target’s company policy is consistent nationwide, state laws can add extra steps for applicants under 18. Depending on where you live, you may be required to provide a work permit (also called an “Employment Certificate”) before your first day of orientation.
- California: All minors under 18 must have a “Permit to Employ and Work.” You typically get this from your school’s guidance office.
- New York: 16 and 17-year-olds are required to have “Working Papers.” Your school issues a green certificate if you are in school, or a peach one if you have already graduated or left school.
- Illinois: While work permits are mandatory for those under 16, older teens should be aware that Illinois has strict “combined hours” rules; your total hours for school and Target work combined cannot exceed 8 hours in a single day.
- Other States: States like Florida, Texas, and Arizona generally do not require work permits for 16 and 17-year-olds, but Target will still verify your age using a birth certificate or government ID.
Pro-Tip: If you aren’t sure, ask your school counselor. They usually have the forms ready to go, and having your permit in hand before your interview shows the hiring manager that you are prepared and professional.
What Does a Fulfillment Expert Role Actually Involve?
Fulfillment roles are a major part of modern Target stores, especially with online ordering, Drive Up, and same-day pickup.
A Fulfillment Expert’s day often includes locating items in the store, preparing orders, packing shipments, and ensuring accuracy and speed. It is an active role that requires constant movement, attention to detail, and comfort using technology.
Target often describes this role as one where:
“No two days are the same, and adaptability is key.”
Because fulfillment work involves lifting, ladders, and equipment use, most Fulfillment Expert positions require applicants to be 18 or older.
What Skills Does Target Expect From Fulfillment and Store Team Members?
Across roles, Target looks for people who can work well with others, adapt quickly, and stay focused in a busy environment.
Employees are expected to interact positively with guests, follow safety procedures, and handle multiple tasks without constant supervision.
As Target often emphasizes in its job descriptions:
“We’re looking for people who enjoy helping others and can keep going when things get busy.”
This applies whether someone is a teen starting out or an adult building a long-term retail career.
What Legal Documents Do Minors Need to Work at Target?
For applicants under 18, legal eligibility to work is essential. Depending on state laws, minors may need additional documentation beyond what adult applicants provide.
This may include a work permit or employment certificate issued by a school or state authority. These requirements are not optional and are based on local regulations rather than store preference.
Parents often ask about this step, and the honest answer is simple:
“If your state requires it, Target will require it too.”
Target Employee Benefits for Teens and Students
Target is widely considered a teen-friendly employer, particularly for students balancing school, activities, and part-time work.
Most teen employees work evenings, weekends, or limited weekday shifts. While flexibility exists, schedules still depend on store needs, seasonal demand, and reliability.
Many students describe the experience like this:
“They worked with my school schedule, but they also expected me to show up on time and be consistent.”
What Benefits Does Target Offer to Eligible Employees?
Target provides a broad range of benefits for eligible team members, depending on role, hours, and length of service. These benefits may include healthcare coverage, paid time off, retirement plans, education assistance, and employee discounts.
Eligibility varies, and benefits can change over time, but Target positions itself as a company that supports long-term growth, not just short-term jobs.
What Is Target’s Workplace Culture Like?
Target emphasizes a culture built around inclusivity, teamwork, and growth. The company frequently highlights values such as respect, ethical conduct, and continuous learning.
Many employees describe the environment as one where:
“You’re encouraged to learn, improve, and move forward, not just stay in one spot.”
This approach appeals to both teenagers starting their work journey and adults building careers.
How Can Applicants Avoid Fake Target Job Scams?
Target has made it clear that it does not recruit through text messages asking for personal information. All legitimate applications go through official Target career platforms.
If a message feels rushed or asks for sensitive information outside official systems, it should be treated with caution.
What Should Job Seekers Remember About Target’s Age Rules?
The most important points are straightforward:
- Most Target store jobs start at age 16
- Some roles require applicants to be 18 or older
- Age limits are based on safety, law, and job responsibility
- Target remains a popular first employer for U.S. teenagers
Knowing these rules helps applicants apply with realistic expectations and confidence.
How to Apply for a Job at Target as a Minor?
Applying for your first job can feel intimidating, but Target has streamlined the process to be entirely digital. If you are 16 or 17, follow these specific steps to ensure your application gets noticed:
- Visit the Official Careers Site: Always apply directly at Target.com/careers. Avoid third-party job boards to ensure your personal information stays secure.
- The Virtual Job Tryout: Once you submit your basic info, Target often requires a “Virtual Job Tryout.” This is an online assessment that uses real-world scenarios like helping a guest or organizing a shelf to see how you react. Pro-tip: Be consistent with your answers and stay guest-focused.
- The Recorded Video Interview: If your application passes the initial screening, you will likely receive an email for a “recorded interview.” Instead of a live person, you will record your answers to 4-5 questions using your phone or computer.
- Check Your Email Daily: Target moves quickly. If you don’t respond to the interview invite within 48–72 hours, the link may expire.
What to Have Ready:
- Your Social Security Number.
- A clear list of your availability (when you can work around school hours).
- The contact information for 1–2 personal references (teachers or coaches work great for first-time seekers).
Checklist: Your Path to a Target Job Offer
Ready to apply? Use this checklist to ensure you don’t miss any critical steps in the hiring process.
Phase 1: Preparation
- Verify Age: Confirm you are 16 for store roles or 18 for fulfillment/warehouse.
- Gather Documents: Have your Social Security Number and a Government ID (or Birth Certificate) ready.
- Check Work Permits: If you’re a minor in a state like CA, NY, or IL, contact your school for “Working Papers.”
- Define Availability: Write down exactly which days and hours you can work (Target loves weekend availability!).
Phase 2: The Application
- Apply via Workday: Create an account at Target.com/careers.
- Complete the “Job Tryout”: Set aside 20–30 minutes for this interactive assessment.
- Monitor Your Email: Check your “Spam” folder daily for the Video Interview invite.
Phase 3: The Video Interview
- Test Equipment: Ensure your phone/laptop camera and mic are working.
- Find a Quiet Spot: Use a well-lit area with a neutral background.
- Practice the “STAR” Method: Prepare stories about a time you helped a customer or worked as a team.
- Submit Promptly: Try to record and submit your interview within 48 hours of receiving the link.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Target a good place for a first job?
Yes. Many people choose Target as a first job because of structured training and clear expectations.
Can a high school student work at Target during the school year?
Yes, as long as they meet age requirements and work within legal hour limits.
Are all Target fulfillment jobs restricted to adults?
Most full fulfillment roles require employees to be 18 due to physical demands.
Does Target provide training for new hires?
Yes. Target offers training to help new team members learn both job skills and store policies.
Can teens work late shifts at Target?
Late-night and overnight shifts are generally limited to employees who are 18 or older.
Does Target hire seasonally?
Yes. Seasonal hiring increases during holidays, often creating more opportunities for eligible teens.
How long does Target take to respond after applying?
Response times vary, but applicants often hear back within days or a few weeks.
