Careers · 8 min read · Updated August 2026
Modelling under 18: what you need to know
Plenty of models start young — but if you’re under 18, the rules are, and should be, stricter. Here’s how to start safely, and one policy to know up front: The Cast Index does not accept profile submissions or nominations from anyone under 18.
By Kaiser Khan, Founder & Editor · Last updated 2026-08-13
The desk verdict
Young people can model, but only with extra safeguards: a parent or guardian in every step, a reputable agency’s youth division, and no upfront fees. The Cast Index does not accept listings or nominations from anyone under 18. Skip any scout who wants to meet you alone or be paid first.
Skip this if adults looking for a fashion-week crash course — use the modelling-at-fashion-week guide — or anyone hoping we will list a minor. We will not.
Why are the rules stricter for young models?
Because the work includes travel, images, long days and adults you do not know. Safeguards include parental or guardian consent, chaperones at castings and shoots, limits on working hours, and protection of education. Exact rules vary by country. The principle does not: a responsible adult is involved and welfare comes first.
Check local child-employment and performance regulations rather than copying another market’s rumour. If a contact is impatient about that check, that is information.
How do you start modelling safely under 18?
Use a reputable agency with a dedicated youth or new-faces division. A parent or guardian should be present at every meeting, casting and shoot, and should read anything before you sign. As with adults, a reputable agency never asks you to pay to be signed.
Never share your address, school or financial details with an unverified contact. Do not meet anyone alone. If something feels off, it usually is.
Why does The Cast Index refuse under-18 submissions?
To protect young people. We do not accept profile submissions, paid listings or People’s Choice nominations from anyone under 18. If you are under 18, build experience through a reputable agency with a parent or guardian — and come to us when you are 18 or over.
This is not a comment on talent. It is a hard line on how this editorial platform handles personal data and public profiles.
Sources: The Cast Index — Terms (checked 13 Aug 2026), Model (person) — Wikipedia (checked 13 Aug 2026) · Facts summarised in our own words; text under CC BY-SA where sourced from Wikipedia.
