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As per the U.S. Department of Labor, the minimum cash wage for tipped restaurant employees is $2.13 per hour as of January 2026, provided tips bring total earnings to at least $7.25 per hour. Employers must supplement any shortfall to reach the full minimum wage. Overtime at 1.5 times the regular rate applies after 40 hours per week.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, workers must be at least 16 years old for most restaurant positions under the Fair Labor Standards Act as of 2026, with 14-15 year olds limited to non-hazardous roles during limited hours. No prior experience or education is required for entry-level roles such as dishwashers or bussers.

As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, applicants must complete Form I-9 with documents proving identity and employment authorization such as a U.S. passport or driver's license plus Social Security card by the first day of work in 2026. Employers verify these within three business days.

The U.S. Department of Labor states that non-exempt restaurant employees receive overtime pay after 40 hours in a workweek at 1.5 times their rate as of 2026, with no federal cap on total weekly hours. There is no federal requirement for paid sick leave or vacation in restaurant jobs.