What Is the Minimum Wage for a 17 Year Old?

If you are 17 years old and starting your first job, or you are an employer hiring a young worker, the key question is: what is the minimum wage for a 17 year old? From April 2026, the answer is clear: £8.00 per hour. This rate applies to all workers under 18, including 16 and 17 year olds, and is known as the 16-17 Year Old Rate of the National Minimum Wage (NMW).

GOV.UK National Minimum Wage rates confirm that the under-18 rate increased by 6% in April 2026, up from £7.55 in the previous year. The Low Pay Commission (LPC) recommended this increase to ensure the rate does not become too detached from the adult rates, while still protecting the youth labour market.

Converting £8.00 per Hour to an Annual Salary

To understand what £8.00 per hour means in yearly terms, you need to multiply by your contracted hours per week and then by 52 weeks. A common assumption for full-time work is 37.5 hours per week, but many young workers start with fewer hours.

• 37.5 hours per week: £8.00 × 37.5 × 52 = £15,600 per year
• 30 hours per week: £8.00 × 30 × 52 = £12,480 per year
• 20 hours per week: £8.00 × 20 × 52 = £8,320 per year

Remember, these are gross annual figures before tax and National Insurance. The Income Tax Personal Allowance is £12,570, so if you earn below that you will not pay income tax. National Insurance contributions start at £242 per week (2026/27 rates).

How the 17 Year Old Rate Compares to Other Age Bands

The minimum wage rises with age. Here are the rates from April 2026:

Age group	Hourly rate
16-17 (and apprentices under 19 or first year)	£8.00
18-20	£10.85
21 and over (National Living Wage)	£12.71

As you can see, the jump from £8.00 to £10.85 at age 18 is significant – an increase of 35.6%. The National Living Wage for those aged 21 and over is nearly 59% higher than the under-18 rate. This structure reflects the fact that younger workers often have less experience and may be in education or training, but the Government has stated an ambition to eventually extend the National Living Wage to 18 year olds.

Why the Rate Matters for Job Seekers

If you are 17 and looking for part-time or full-time work, knowing the legal minimum helps you check that you are being paid fairly. Many employers pay above the minimum, especially in sectors like retail, hospitality, and care. Always check your contract and payslips.

For those comparing hourly jobs with salaried offers, our Hourly to Salary calculator can help you see the annual equivalent. You can also explore salary data for different age groups and regions.

Historical Context and Future Outlook

The under-18 rate has increased steadily over the years. In April 2024 it was £6.40, rising to £7.55 in April 2025, and now £8.00 in April 2026. The Low Pay Commission expects coverage for 16-17 year olds to increase from 22% to 23% of jobs in this age group, meaning more young workers are paid at or near the minimum.

Looking ahead, the LPC has indicated that the rate for 2027 may need to rise further to keep pace with median earnings. The Government’s remit asks the LPC to recommend rates that balance affordability for employers with fair pay for workers.

Practical Tips for Young Workers

• Know your rights: You are entitled to the National Minimum Wage from school leaving age (16). If you are not receiving it, contact Acas.
• Check your age: Once you turn 18, your employer must pay you at least £10.85 per hour.
• Apprentices: If you are an apprentice under 19 or in your first year, you also get £8.00 per hour. After your first year and turning 19, you move to the rate for your age.
• Overtime: There is no statutory overtime rate for under-18s, but your contract may specify one. Always check.

Summary

To answer the question directly: what is the minimum wage for a 17 year old? It is £8.00 per hour from April 2026. This applies across the UK. Use our salary articles for more guidance on negotiating pay and understanding your earnings.

Remember, the figures here are based on official GOV.UK and Low Pay Commission publications. Always refer to the latest government guidance for the most up-to-date rates.