Intro to Washington D.C. Labor Laws

Get an overview of the Washington, D.C. labor laws small businesses should know when hiring, and updates on employment laws that could impact your business.

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Last updated on January 12th, 2026

Minimum Wage

The minimum wage in Washington, D.C. is $17.95 per hour for all employees.

References: Washington, D.C. State Minimum Wage

Minimum Exempt Salary Requirements

Washington, D.C. follows the federal minimum exempt requirement of $684 per week, or $35,568 per year for most exemptions from minimum wage and overtime.

References: Federal Minimum Exemption Threshold

Meal & Rest Laws

Washington, D.C. doesn’t require employers to provide meal and rest break periods.

Lactation Accommodation Laws

Employers must provide daily breaks, which may be unpaid, for new mothers to pump breast milk. This break can overlap with any break time, paid or unpaid, already provided to the employee. Employers should also make reasonable efforts to provide a sanitary room or place near the work area, other than a bathroom, to pump breast milk.

References: Breastfeeding Employees Rights

This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, legal or tax advice. If you have any legal or tax questions regarding this content or related issues, then you should consult with your professional legal or tax advisor.