Walgreens is one of the largest pharmacy retailers in the United States, with more than 8,600 locations nationwide. Known for its customer-first service model, healthcare focus, and flexible entry-level opportunities, Walgreens is a popular employer for teens, college students, and adults seeking retail or pharmacy-related careers.
If you’re wondering how old you need to be to work at Walgreens, this guide breaks down everything you should know — including hiring age, job roles, work restrictions for minors, pay rates, benefits, and how to apply successfully in 2025.
Available Opportunities at Walgreens
Walgreens offers several entry-level positions designed for young workers and first-time job seekers. These roles provide:
- Customer service experience
- Cash-handling training
- Retail stocking and merchandising skills
- Exposure to pharmacy operations
Common entry-level positions include:
Cashier
Assists customers, handles transactions, manages returns, and keeps the front-end area clean.
Stock Clerk / Inventory Associate
Organizes shelves, restocks products, manages backroom merchandise, and supports store operations.
Photo Technician
Processes passport photos, prints digital images, and assists customers with photo orders.
Beauty Consultant (often 18+)
Helps customers choose skincare and beauty products; requires product knowledge and communication skills.
These entry-level jobs offer flexible scheduling and are ideal for students balancing school and work.
Career Pathways at Walgreens
Walgreens provides clear pathways for career growth, especially for employees who want to stay long-term.
Pharmacy Technician (18+)
One of Walgreens’ most popular career roles. Walgreens offers paid training programs and national certification assistance.
Shift Lead / Supervisor
Supports store management, handles nightly operations, opens and closes the store, and supervises team members.
Store Manager & District Manager
For employees with leadership skills and retail experience. Walgreens often promotes from within.
Corporate & Distribution Center Careers
Roles in IT, logistics, HR, finance, and supply chain are available for experienced applicants.
Walgreens’ mix of retail and healthcare makes it a strong pathway for students interested in pharmacy, nursing, or healthcare careers.
Minimum Age Requirements at Walgreens (2025)
The minimum age to work at Walgreens is typically 16 years old for most entry-level roles.
Age 16+ Eligible Roles
- Cashier
- Stock clerk
- Photo technician
- Customer service associate
Age 18+ Required Roles
- Pharmacy technician
- Shift lead
Beauty consultant (in many locations)
- Any role involving restricted equipment or medication handling
These requirements follow federal guidelines and Walgreens’ internal safety standards.
Federal & State Labor Laws for Minors (Updated 2025)
Labor laws limit the tasks and working hours for employees under 18 to ensure safety and academic balance.
Working Hour Restrictions for Minors
Most states follow these guidelines:
- Up to 3 hours per school day
- Up to 18 hours per school week
- Up to 8 hours on weekends or non-school days
- No work after 9 p.m. on school nights
- Up to 40 hours per week during summer break
Prohibited Tasks for Minors
Minors cannot:
- Operate hazardous equipment
- Handle controlled pharmaceuticals
- Work late-night pharmacy shifts
- Perform tasks involving ladders above a certain height
Work Permit Requirements
Some states require:
- A school-issued work permit
- Proof of age (ID, birth certificate, or driver’s license)
- Parental consent
Walgreens verifies age and documentation during the hiring process.
Walgreens Policies for Minors
Walgreens adheres strictly to child labor laws to protect young employees. Policies include:
- Supervision during all shifts
- Task assignments that comply with safety laws
- Scheduled breaks and rest periods
- Prohibited late-night hours for minors
- No access to restricted pharmacy or hazardous areas
These policies allow minors to gain work experience while maintaining safety and school commitments.
Opportunities for Older Teens (18+)
Turning 18 opens access to more advanced Walgreens positions, including:
- Pharmacy technician trainee
- Beauty advisor
- Shift leader
- Designated photo specialist
- Overnight stock roles
18-year-olds also gain more scheduling flexibility, including late-night or early-morning shifts.
Walgreens vs. CVS: Which Is Better for Teens?
Both Walgreens and CVS offer similar entry-level retail jobs, but key differences include:
Walgreens Advantages
- Stronger pharmacy technician pathway with training reimbursement
- Often more flexible shifts for students
- In-store culture varies more (less corporate rigidity)
- More internal promotion opportunities
CVS Advantages
- More structured corporate training
- Some roles restricted to 17+ or 18+ depending on state
- Larger pharmacy market share
Job seekers should consider store management style, scheduling, and pay differences in their local area.
Pros and Cons of Working at Walgreens
Pros
- Flexible scheduling for students
- Fast-paced environment builds retail and communication skills
- Opportunities to grow into pharmacy technician or management roles
- Employee discounts
- Good entry-level pay in many states
Cons
- Standing for long periods
- Busy rush hours (mornings, evenings, flu season)
- Some stores may have limited staffing during late shifts
- Pay may be lower than some specialty retailers
Do You Need a Resume for Walgreens?
Yes — especially for applicants 17+ or applying for pharmacy/leadership roles.
A good resume should highlight:
- Customer service experience
- Volunteer work
- Communication skills
- Reliability
- Academic achievements
- School clubs or leadership roles
Teens without experience can focus on soft skills and extracurricular activities.
How Much Does Walgreens Pay in 2025?
Pay varies by state and role. Updated estimates:
Entry-Level Positions
- Cashiers / Front-End Associates: $12–$15 per hour
- Stock Clerks: $13–$16 per hour
- Photo Technicians: $12–$16 per hour
Skilled Roles
- Pharmacy Technicians: $15–$22 per hour depending on certification
- Shift Leads: $16–$20 per hour
Factors that affect pay:
- City cost of living
- Store traffic levels
- Previous retail experience
- Night/overnight availability
FAQs
What is the minimum age to work at Walgreens?
Typically 16 years old.
Can 14- or 15-year-olds work at Walgreens?
Not usually. Most stores hire 16+, except in rare permit-driven situations depending on state law.
Do minors need a work permit?
In many states yes — a work permit and age verification are required.
Can minors work in the pharmacy?
No. Pharmacy roles require you to be 18+.
Does Walgreens offer flexible schedules?
Yes. Many stores accommodate school hours, activities, and exams.
Conclusion
Walgreens offers a strong work environment for both teens and adults, with a minimum hiring age of 16 for most roles and 18 for pharmacy or supervisory positions. The company provides excellent training, advancement opportunities, flexible scheduling, and a solid introduction to both retail and healthcare fields.
Whether you’re looking for your first job or planning long-term career growth, Walgreens can be a supportive and rewarding place to work.
Daniel is a business writer focused on entrepreneurship, finance, and investment strategies. He shares practical insights to help professionals and business owners make informed decisions in a fast-changing market.