Careers · 5 min read · Updated July 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.
The rules are stricter — that’s protective
Working as a young model comes with extra safeguards: parental or guardian consent, chaperones at castings and shoots, limits on working hours, and protection of your education. The exact rules vary by country, so check your local child-employment and performance regulations — but the principle everywhere is that a responsible adult is involved and your welfare comes first.
How to start safely
The safe route is a reputable agency that has 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 it. As with adults, a reputable agency never asks you to pay to be signed — be extremely cautious of anyone who does.
Our policy: 18 and over
The Cast Index is an editorial platform, and to protect young people we do not accept profile submissions, paid listings, or People’s Choice nominations from anyone under 18. If you’re under 18, focus on building experience through a reputable agency with your parent or guardian — and come to us when you’re older.
Staying safe online
Never share your address, school, or financial details with an unverified contact, don’t meet anyone alone, and involve a parent or guardian in every message and decision. If something feels off, it usually is.
Sources: The Cast Index — Terms, Model (person) — Wikipedia · Facts summarised in our own words; text under CC BY-SA where sourced from Wikipedia.