District of Columbia · updated 2026-10
District of Columbia Overtime & Break Laws
Time and a half after 40 hours in a workweek.
Overtime
40h / week
Time and a half after 40 hours in a workweek.
D.C. Code 32-1003(c): 1.5x the regular rate for hours over 40 in a workweek. There is no daily overtime.
Meal break
Not required
No state law requires a meal break for adult employees in District of Columbia; it's up to the employer. If a break is under 20 minutes, federal law treats it as paid work time.
Rest breaks
Not required
District of Columbia law doesn't require rest breaks for adults. Short breaks an employer does give (5–20 minutes) must be paid under federal rules.
Minimum wage
$18.40
$18.40 an hour (since 2026-07-01). Applies regardless of employer size and is CPI-indexed every July 1. The tipped base wage is $10.30 (56% of the minimum) from 2026-07-01, and the employer must top up if tips fall short.
District of Columbia time card
| Day | Clock in | Break min | Clock out | Hours |
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District of Columbia pay and break questions
When does overtime start in District of Columbia?
Time and a half after 40 hours in a workweek. D.C. Code 32-1003(c): 1.5x the regular rate for hours over 40 in a workweek. There is no daily overtime.
Are lunch breaks required in District of Columbia?
No state law requires a meal break for adult employees in District of Columbia; it's up to the employer. If a break is under 20 minutes, federal law treats it as paid work time.
Are rest breaks required in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia law doesn't require rest breaks for adults. Short breaks an employer does give (5–20 minutes) must be paid under federal rules.
What is the minimum wage in District of Columbia?
$18.40 an hour (since 2026-07-01). Applies regardless of employer size and is CPI-indexed every July 1. The tipped base wage is $10.30 (56% of the minimum) from 2026-07-01, and the employer must top up if tips fall short.
Workers under 18 in District of Columbia
Teens have extra limits on hours and times of day, and may need a work permit. See District of Columbia teen work rules and which employers hire at 14 and 15.
Questions or a complaint? Contact the D.C. Department of Employment Services, Office of Wage-Hour Compliance.