Meal and Rest Break Laws in North Carolina
Whether North Carolina law requires meal or rest breaks for adult employees.
Short answer: No state requirement for employees 16 or older. Workers under 16 must get a 30-minute break after 5 hours (generally at smaller businesses not covered by federal law). North Carolina Department of Labor, What to Know About Breaks
| Meal and rest breaks | No state requirement for employees 16 or older. Workers under 16 must get a 30-minute break after 5 hours (generally at smaller businesses not covered by federal law). If an employer gives a break shorter than 30 minutes, it must be paid. |
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Where to get help in North Carolina
More North Carolina employment law
- Minimum Wage in North Carolina
- Final Paycheck Laws in North Carolina
- Wrongful Termination in North Carolina
- Non-Compete Agreements in North Carolina
- All North Carolina employment law rules
FAQ
Are breaks required by law in North Carolina?
No state requirement for employees 16 or older. Workers under 16 must get a 30-minute break after 5 hours (generally at smaller businesses not covered by federal law). If an employer gives a break shorter than 30 minutes, it must be paid.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.