California: meal break laws
Whether your state requires employers to give adult workers a meal break, how long, and when.
Checked on official source| Meal break rule | 30 minutes after more than 5 hours; a second 30 minutes after 10 hours |
|---|---|
| Who it covers | Most employees (Labor Code 512) |
Federal law does not require meal breaks, but short breaks of 5 to 20 minutes that an employer gives must be paid. Separate rules often apply to workers under 18.
General information only, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Not affiliated with any government agency. Exceptions can apply. Confirm with the state agency, the court or a licensed professional in California.
Also for California: Workers' comp deadlines in California · Workers' comp benefits in California · Paid leave programs in California · Final paycheck rules in California · Minimum wage in California · Unemployment benefits in California · Tipped minimum wage in California · Payday frequency in California · Rest break laws in California
How we checked this
Rules come from the U.S. Department of Labor's table of state meal period requirements for adult private-sector workers. Last checked: November 12, 2026. Laws change; confirm with the state agency or a licensed professional before acting.
Cross-checked sources agree Checked on official source confirmed on a government, court or legislature site Single detailed source one detailed table built from statutes or official data Under review sources disagree; read the note and the law.