California Wage Orders

California's wage and hour laws rank among the toughest in the nation. When federal law sets a standard, California law often goes beyond that standard, requiring more of employers. With dual sets of regulations, the law easily becomes confusing, making compliance a challenging exercise for California employers.

This section explains federal and state wage and hour laws. You will learn how federal and state law interrelate and which prevails when provisions conflict. It thoroughly discusses all sources of wage and hours law.​​​​

  • State Versus Federal Law: Which Prevails?

    State Versus Federal Law: Which Prevails?As a California employer, you are subject to labor laws and regulations from the state and federal governments and from other jurisdictions that legislate on employment matters.   More »

  • IWC Wage Orders

    IWC Wage OrdersCalifornia’s IWC regulates wages and hours of nonexempt employees by creating documents called Wage Orders. California employers must comply with 17 Wage Orders plus a Minimum Wage Order.   More »

  • Employee Classification

    Employee ClassificationTo determine which IWC Wage Order covers an employee or group of employees, you must first determine if your business is covered by one of the industry orders.   More »

  • Wage Order Listings

    Wage Order ListingsThis section lists California’s 17 Wage Orders, along with a description of the industries or occupations covered by each.  More »

  • Wage Order Enforcement and Penalties

    Wage Order Enforcement and PenaltiesPenalties may be assessed for violating the Labor Code’s wage-and-hour provisions. The Division of Labor Standards Enforcement is charged with enforcing these laws and will adjudicate wage claims.   More »

    Read about new 2012 legislation.​
  • Car Wash Industry

    Car Wash IndustryEvery employer in the car wash industry must register annually with the Labor Commissioner.  More »

  • Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

    Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)The federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) includes provisions defining minimum wage and permissible sub-minimum wage levels, maximum hours of work and overtime pay, restrictions on employment of minors and categories of exempt employees.  More »

  • Sweatfree Code of Conduct for State Contractors

    Sweatfree Code of Conduct for State ContractorsThe Sweatfree Code of Conduct applies to contracts with state agencies providing for the procurement or laundering of apparel, garments or corresponding accessories, or the procurement of equipment, materials or supplies.   More »