How Old Do You Have to Work at Dollar General? (The Ultimate Guide)

Wondering how old do you have to work at Dollar General? Find out the age requirements, job roles, and hiring policies in this guide.

I remember the first time I started looking for a job as a teenager. I wanted to earn my own money, gain independence, and stop relying on my parents for everything. Like many young job seekers, I was eager but clueless about where to start. If you’re reading this, you might be in the same boat, wondering whether Dollar General offers entry-level work opportunities.

So, let’s cut right to the chase: Dollar General typically requires employees to be at least 18 years old. However, in some locations, 16-year-olds can get hired for certain roles that don’t involve handling restricted products. But there’s more to the story than just age requirements, and that’s exactly what we’re going to explore in this guide.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of:

• Dollar General’s hiring policies based on age
• Why these policies exist
• How you can land a job there if you qualify
• Alternative options if you’re not old enough yet

Let’s dive in.

1. Dollar General’s Minimum Age Requirement (With Exceptions!)

The official minimum hiring age at Dollar General is 18 years old. This applies to most positions, including cashier, stocker, and sales associate.

However, in certain states and stores, 16- and 17-year-olds might be eligible for positions that don’t involve operating a cash register or selling age-restricted items like alcohol or tobacco. This is because labor laws vary by state, and some stores make exceptions based on staffing needs.

How Can You Find Out If Your Local Store Hires 16-Year-Olds?

Here’s a quick and easy method:

• Visit the Dollar General Careers Page and search for job openings in your area.
• Call or visit your local store and ask a manager about their hiring policy for minors.
• If they do hire 16-year-olds, ask about the application process and whether you need a work permit (some states require one for minors).

When I was younger, I made the mistake of assuming all stores had the same rules. I walked into a local store, confidently asked for an application, and was promptly told, “Come back when you’re 18.” That’s when I realized that checking first could save a lot of time and effort.

2. Why Does Dollar General Require Most Employees to Be 18?

At first, I found it frustrating that some places wouldn’t hire younger workers. But once I dug deeper, it made sense. Here’s why Dollar General generally sticks to the 18+ rule:

1. Legal Compliance

Many Dollar General stores sell tobacco, alcohol, and lottery tickets. Federal and state laws prohibit minors from selling these items. Rather than creating separate roles just for younger workers, the company keeps it simple: hire 18+ employees who can handle all transactions.

2. Work Responsibilities

Retail jobs are not just about scanning barcodes and smiling at customers. Employees often:

• Operate cash registers
• Unload heavy shipments
• Stock shelves efficiently
• Handle customer complaints (sometimes the worst part of the job!)

Some of these tasks require a level of maturity and responsibility that younger workers might not yet have.

3. State Labor Laws

Some states impose restrictions on how many hours minors can work, especially during school months. Instead of juggling different schedules for minors, many employers opt to hire only legal adults who can work full-time shifts without legal complications.

3. How to Apply for a Job at Dollar General (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you meet the age requirement, here’s how to increase your chances of getting hired:

Step 1: Prepare Your Resume

Even if you’ve never had a job before, highlight relevant experience. Did you babysit? Help out in a family business? Volunteer at school events? Employers value responsibility, teamwork, and customer service skills, even if they come from non-traditional jobs.

Step 2: Apply Online or In-Store

Go to Dollar General’s Career Page and search for job openings near you. If you prefer the old-school approach, visit the store and ask if they’re hiring.

Step 3: Ace the Interview

If you get called for an interview, prepare for these common questions:

• “Why do you want to work at Dollar General?”
• “How would you handle a difficult customer?”
• “What would you do if you saw a coworker stealing?”

Practice your answers, stay confident, and be polite. Employers love candidates who show enthusiasm and a strong work ethic.

4. What If You’re Not Old Enough Yet? Alternative Options

Not 18 yet? No worries. There are plenty of other ways to gain experience and start earning money. Here are some alternatives:

1. Work at Other Retail Stores

Some companies have lower age requirements:

• Walmart – Some positions hire at 16
• Kroger – Hires baggers and stockers as young as 14 in some locations
• Target – Certain roles available at 16

2. Try the Fast-Food Industry

Places like McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A, and Subway often hire 15- and 16-year-olds. You won’t get rich, but you’ll build customer service experience that looks great on a future resume.

3. Start Your Own Side Hustle

When I was 16, I started tutoring younger students in math. I made more money per hour than my friends who worked retail, and I set my own schedule. Consider:

• Babysitting
• Pet sitting or dog walking
• Freelance work (graphic design, writing, or coding)
• Selling handmade crafts online

Gaining any work experience now, even outside of a traditional job, will put you ahead when you do apply for retail positions later.

What’s Your Next Move?

1. If you’re 18 or older, now is the time to apply. Visit Dollar General Careers and check for job openings near you.

2. If you’re 16 or 17, check with your local store. You might be able to land a stocking or backroom position. If not, explore other job options that fit your age group.

3. If you’re under 16, don’t get discouraged. There are still ways to build experience and earn money. Look into freelance work, small gigs, or volunteer opportunities that will set you up for success when you’re old enough for a retail job.

4. The job hunt can feel overwhelming, but trust me, your first job, no matter where it is, will teach you valuable lessons that last a lifetime. So go out there, take action, and start building your future today.