Health
At what age can a minor generally consent to certain sexual health services (such as STI testing) in California without a parent?
Age 12 (for certain sexual and reproductive health services)
What is the minimum age most teens can legally work in California with the proper permits?
14 years old (with exceptions)
At what age can you apply for a California learner's permit?
15½ years old.
Is it illegal to record a conversation over the phone?
Yes.
Can a public school search a student's backpack if there is reasonable suspicion that school rules or laws have been broken?
Yes.
True or False: A parent must always be told if a minor receives birth control services.
False. Many reproductive health services are confidential.
What document do most minors under 18 need before starting a job during the school year?
A work permit (Permit to Employ and Work).
During the first 12 months of having a provisional license, can teens under 18 drive friends under 20 without an adult in the car?
No. There are limited exceptions (such as with a licensed adult, emergencies, or certain family/work/school needs).
What government document gives every child the right to attend public school regardless of immigration status?
The right to a free public education regardless of immigration status.
Do private schools have the same rights as public schools?
No.
Name one mental health service that California minors age 12+ may be able to consent to without parental permission if certain conditions are met.
Examples: outpatient mental health counseling, therapy, or counseling related to certain concerns (subject to California law and eligibility).
Name one type of job that is generally prohibited for minors because it is considered hazardous.
Examples: roofing, operating heavy machinery, demolition, mining, many power-driven equipment jobs.
What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers under 21 in California?
0.01% BAC (California's zero-tolerance law for drivers under 21).
Can minors generally refuse to answer police questions without a parent present?
Yes. Minors generally have the right to remain silent and should ask for an attorney; they do not have to answer police questions.
What federal law protects students with disabilities by requiring schools to provide accommodations and services?
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
At what age can a pregnant minor generally make decisions about their own pregnancy-related medical care?
Any age. A pregnant minor generally may consent to pregnancy-related medical care.
How many hours may a 16- or 17-year-old generally work on a school day when school is in session?
Generally 4 hours on a school day.
If a driver under 18 receives too many points or serious violations, what may happen to their license?
Their license may be suspended or restricted.
What legal process allows some minors to gain many adult legal rights before turning 18?
Emancipation.
If a student is being questioned by school administrators about a possible rule violation, do they have the same Miranda rights they would have when questioned by police?
No. School administrators generally do not have to give Miranda warnings when questioning students for school discipline. However, if law enforcement is involved, constitutional protections may apply.
Name three health services California minors may consent to on their own.
Examples: STI testing/treatment, birth control, pregnancy care, prenatal care, abortion services, outpatient mental health counseling (when legal requirements are met).
rue or False: Employers can legally pay minors less than minimum wage simply because they are under 18.
False. Most minors are entitled to at least the applicable minimum wage.
What are the two major passenger restrictions for drivers under 18 during their first year of holding a provisional license?
No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., and no passengers under 20 years old without a qualified adult (subject to legal exceptions).
Name two contracts that minors can generally cancel (disaffirm) because they are under 18.
Examples: cell phone contracts, gym memberships, vehicle purchases, many retail installment contracts, or other non-essential agreements (with some exceptions under California law).
What law protects the privacy of a student's education records?
FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act).