Help guide
School leaving age and minimum wage
Minimum wage entitlement does not begin just because you turn 16. This guide explains how school leaving age interacts with the National Minimum Wage, and what to check if you think you may be too young for the statutory rate.
What school leaving age means
In the UK, National Minimum Wage entitlement normally starts from school leaving age, not simply from the day you turn 16. That is why the calculator asks 16-year-olds to confirm whether they have reached school leaving age before it shows a legal wage comparison.
If you are below school leaving age, you are generally outside the minimum wage rules. If you are 16 and have reached school leaving age, the 16 to 17 minimum wage band can apply.
What to check
- Your date of birth
- Whether you have reached school leaving age
- Whether you are treated as an apprentice
- Your pay reference period and hourly rate
Where to read the official rules
HMRC's minimum wage guidance explains who gets the minimum wage and how the age bands work.
Open HMRC minimum wage rates