California Minimum Wage (2025)
Current minimum wage information for California with latest regulations and requirements.
Quick Facts
Basic Minimum Rate
Premium Pay
Federal Override
The California minimum wage for 2025 is set at $16.50 per hour.
California has special minimum wage rates for specific sectors. California has special minimum wage rates for specific sectors: - As of April 1, 2024, fast food workers must be paid at least $20.00/hour. - Starting June 1, 2024, many healthcare facility workers must be paid $23.00/hour, increasing annually until $25.00/hour in 2026. These rates are in addition to the standard minimum wage of $16.50/hour. Employers in these industries must carefully review the applicable rates to ensure compliance.
For tipped employees in California, the minimum cash wage is $16.50 per hour. California does not allow employers to take a tip credit against minimum wage. This means tipped workers like servers, bartenders, and hotel staff must be paid the full minimum wage regardless of tips received. California law prohibits a lower wage for tipped workers. Employers must pay full minimum wage regardless of tips received. Understanding the tipped minimum wage is essential for both employers and workers in the service industry.
California allows a youth minimum wage of $16.50 per hour under specific conditions. No separate youth or training wage allowed. All employees must receive full minimum wage regardless of age. This reduced training wage helps employers create entry-level opportunities while ensuring young workers receive fair compensation during their initial employment period.
In addition to the base minimum wage, California has specific overtime and premium pay requirements. Workers are entitled to overtime pay after 8 (1.5x), 12 (2x) hours in a workday. Weekly overtime is required after 40 hours. Special rates apply for work on the 7th consecutive day. Employers must carefully track working hours to ensure compliance with these regulations.
Important considerations for California's minimum wage law include: Detailed rules apply per Labor Code 510. Minimum wage adjusted annually. Employers should consult with legal counsel to ensure full compliance with these provisions.
For the most current and authoritative information on California's minimum wage laws and regulations, employers and workers should consult the official California labor department website or legal counsel. Understanding your rights and obligations regarding minimum wage, tipped wages, and youth employment is essential for both employers and employees.
Minimum Wage Rates for 2025
Tipped Employee Minimum Wage
Youth & Training Wage
No separate youth or training wage allowed. All employees must receive full minimum wage regardless of age.
Premium Pay Rules
| Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Daily | 8 (1.5x), 12 (2x) |
| Weekly | 40 |
| 7th Day | First 8 (1.5x), Over 8 (2x) |
Notes & Exceptions
Detailed rules apply per Labor Code 510. Minimum wage adjusted annually.
Special Minimum Wage Rules
California has special minimum wage rates for specific sectors:
- As of April 1, 2024, fast food workers must be paid at least $20.00/hour.
- Starting June 1, 2024, many healthcare facility workers must be paid $23.00/hour, increasing annually until $25.00/hour in 2026.
These rates are in addition to the standard minimum wage of $16.50/hour.
Related Labor Laws in California
Details
Employees accrue at least 1 hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. Employers may cap accrual at 48 hours and limit use to 24 hours per year.
Applies To
All employers regardless of size.
Details
30-minute meal break for shifts over 5 hours, second meal break for shifts over 10 hours. 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours worked.
Applies To
Most non-exempt employees.
Details
Wages earned between 1st-15th must be paid between 16th-26th. Wages earned between 16th-end of month must be paid between 1st-10th of following month.
Applies To
All employers.
Details
If employee is fired or laid off, all earned wages are due immediately. If employee quits with 72+ hours notice, wages due on last day. Without notice, wages due within 72 hours.
Applies To
All employers.
Details
1.5× regular rate for hours over 8 in a day, 40 in a week, and first 8 hours on 7th consecutive workday. 2× for hours over 12 in a day and over 8 on 7th consecutive workday.
Applies To
Most non-exempt employees.