California Overtime Law Explained — How OT Pay Works in 2026

Updated October 2026 · 4 min read

Quick start: Open the free California Overtime Calculator — enter hours worked and hourly rate to see regular pay, OT pay and double time instantly.

California has some of the most employee-friendly overtime rules in the United States. Unlike federal law (which only triggers OT after 40 hours per week), California also mandates overtime for long days — making it essential for both employers and employees to understand exactly when each rate applies.

California Overtime Rules at a Glance

Hours worked	Pay rate
Up to 8 hours/day OR first 40 hours/week	Regular rate (1×)
Hours 9–12 in a workday	1.5× (time-and-a-half)
Beyond 12 hours in a workday	2× (double time)
Hours 41–168 in a workweek	1.5× (time-and-a-half)
7th consecutive day in a workweek: first 8 hrs	1.5×
7th consecutive day: beyond 8 hrs	2× (double time)

Worked Example — $20/hr, 10 Hours on a Weekday

First 8 hours: 8 × $20 = $160
Hours 9–10 (OT at 1.5×): 2 × $30 = $60
Daily total: $220 vs $200 at flat rate

Federal vs California OT — The Key Difference

Federal law (FLSA) only requires OT after 40 hours per week — there is no daily OT trigger. California requires OT after 8 hours in a day, regardless of weekly total. An employee who works four 10-hour days in California earns 8 hours of OT pay even though their week total is only 40 hours. This is the most important distinction for California employers.

Who Is Exempt from California Overtime?

Executive, administrative and professional employees earning at least $66,560/year (2024 salary threshold, double the state minimum wage) are generally exempt. Independent contractors are not covered. Agricultural workers have separate rules. When in doubt, consult the California Labor Commissioner's office.

Calculate California Overtime Pay

Enter hourly rate and daily or weekly hours — see regular pay, time-and-a-half and double time breakdown.

Open Free California Overtime Calculator →