Labor laws concerning minors?

I graduated from high school a semester early (I already have my h.s. diploma) however I'm still 17 years old at the moment. I want to start working, but I'm a bit unsure as to whether I need a work permit or not. I'm going to university in the fall, and I live in the state of California. Since I'm not a h.s. student anymore do I still need to go back to my old high school and get a work permit or what? Thanks for the help!

Or do I need to get a work permit from the university I anticipate on attending in the fall?

She's right: "High school graduates or minors who have been awarded a certificate of proficiency are exempt from the permit requirements [EC 49101; LC 1286]. Minors do not need to attain a minimum age in order to graduate from high school."

In other words, you don't need a permit so don't stress about going back to school!

"Minors aged six through 15 years must attend school full-time UNLESS the minor is a high school graduate [EC 49110],"

I would think since you have already graduated from high school, you shouldn't need a work permit to get a job. If there are actual restrictions on the job, like heavy equipment operation or something that requires you to be 18, that would be different.

When you apply, just bring along a copy of your HS diploma.