What are the minimum wage exceptions that apply to student learners?

Short Answer: Employers can pay student learners 75% of the minimum wage with a special certificate.

Full Answer: The Student Learner Program allows employers to pay high school students aged 16 or older who are enrolled in vocational education programs at least 75% of the federal minimum wage ($7.25 per hour).
To qualify, employers must obtain a certificate from the Department of Labor. This reduced wage is valid only while the student remains in the vocational program.
Employers must ensure compliance with child labor laws. For application details, employers can contact the Wage and Hour National Certification Team.

General Federal Standard: This exception is authorized by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Section 14(a), which allows sub-minimum wages for specific categories, including student learners.

Link to a legislative resource from trusted sources: U.S. Department of Labor - Student Learner Program