If you’re a teen looking for your first job, Subway can be a great place to start. Known for its flexible hours, teamwork environment, and opportunities for growth, many students and young adults wonder: “What age does Subway hire?”
The short answer is — it depends on your state labor laws, but in most cases, Subway hires at 16 years old. However, some locations may hire at 15 with a work permit, depending on local laws and franchise policies.
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect before applying.
Minimum Age Requirements to Work at Subway
In the United States, the standard minimum age to work at Subway is 16.
That means you can typically apply for most entry-level positions, such as sandwich artist or crew member, once you turn 16.
However, some Subway locations hire 15-year-olds with a valid work permit — especially in states that allow minors under 16 to work limited hours.
Here’s what that means
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Age 14–15: You may work only if your state and the specific Subway franchise allow it, and you have a youth employment certificate (or work permit).
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Age 16–17: You can generally work without a permit but may still have limits on late-night or long-hour shifts.
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Age 18+: You’re eligible for all positions, including shift leader, assistant manager, or manager.
Labor Laws to Know Before Applying at Subway
Before you fill out an application, it’s important to understand the rules that apply to teen workers in the U.S. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) — a federal law managed by the U.S. Department of Labor — sets nationwide standards for minimum working age, hours, and job types for minors.
Subway follows these laws closely, and because most of its restaurants are individually owned franchises, each location must also follow state and local labor laws.
Here’s what that means for you:
Federal Work Hour Rules
If you’re 14 or 15 years old, you’re legally allowed to work — but only under certain conditions. The federal government limits both when and how much you can work to ensure your education comes first.
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During the school year, you can work:
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Up to 3 hours on a school day
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Up to 8 hours on a non-school day
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No more than 18 hours in a school week
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During school breaks or summer vacation, the limits increase to:
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8 hours per day
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40 hours per week
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Time restrictions:
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You can only work between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. during the school year.
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From June 1 to Labor Day, you can work as late as 9 p.m.
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If you’re 16 or 17 years old, there are no federal limits on the number of hours you can work — but there are still restrictions on hazardous or unsafe jobs. For example, you can’t operate heavy machinery, certain power-driven kitchen tools, or work in environments that are considered dangerous under FLSA rules.
State Labor Laws and Work Permits
In addition to federal law, every state has its own youth employment regulations, and they can differ significantly.
Some states require work permits for anyone under 16, while others extend that requirement to age 17. States also define “hazardous work” differently, so it’s always best to double-check before applying.
For example:
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California: Requires a work permit for anyone under 18.
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Texas: Allows 14- and 15-year-olds to work with parental consent but limits shift times.
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Florida: Permits 15-year-olds to work with restrictions on school nights and total weekly hours.
If you’re unsure what your state requires, visit your school counselor or your state Department of Labor website for the correct forms and up-to-date guidelines.
Subway’s Compliance With Youth Labor Rules
Because Subway is a food service employer, they must follow both labor laws and food safety regulations. That means:
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Younger employees (under 16) may be restricted from using certain equipment, such as ovens, slicers, or large toasters.
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Most under-16 roles focus on customer service, cleaning, prep work, and cashiering.
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Older teens (16–17) often handle a broader range of duties, including food prep, sandwich assembly, and stocking supplies.
Managers and franchise owners are trained to ensure all employees — especially minors — work within these guidelines. This protects both you and the business.
Common Subway Jobs and Pay
Here’s a breakdown of typical Subway positions available for teens and young adults:
| Job Title | Minimum Age | Average Hourly Pay (USD) | Main Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sandwich Artist | 16 (sometimes 15 with permit) | $10 – $13 | Prepare sandwiches, greet customers, handle cash register, maintain cleanliness. |
| Shift Leader | 18 | $13 – $16 | Oversee shifts, manage employees, ensure food quality and safety standards. |
| Assistant Manager | 18+ | $15 – $19 | Assist with scheduling, inventory, and daily operations. |
| Store Manager | 18+ | $18 – $25+ | Oversee the entire store, train staff, manage budgets, ensure customer satisfaction. |
Benefits of Working at Subway
Working at Subway isn’t just about making sandwiches — it’s about building real-world skills that can help you for years to come. For many teens, Subway is their first job, offering a supportive environment to learn the basics of customer service, teamwork, and responsibility.
What You’ll Gain
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Flexible scheduling – Perfect for students balancing school, sports, or clubs.
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Meal discounts – Enjoy savings on your favorite Subway subs and snacks.
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Work experience – Learn customer service, cash handling, and time management.
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Teamwork & communication – Practice collaborating in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
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Advancement opportunities – Many managers started as Sandwich Artists and worked their way up.
These experiences don’t just help you earn money — they also build your resume and develop soft skills that future employers or colleges value.
Pro Tip: If you show dedication and a positive attitude, you could move up quickly. Some teens are promoted to Shift Leader or Assistant Manager roles before graduating high school.
Final Thoughts
So, what age does Subway hire?
Most Subway restaurants start hiring at 16 years old, but some locations may hire 15-year-olds with a valid work permit, depending on state labor laws and individual franchise policies.
Subway is one of the best entry-level jobs for teens, offering flexible hours, valuable experience, and a chance to learn customer service and leadership skills in a friendly environment.
If you’re ready to start working, visit your local Subway or check their online careers page to see if they’re hiring for your age group. A quick introduction and polite attitude can often be the start of your first great job.
