California overtime: daily hours matter
California Labor Code 510 generally requires 1.5 times the regular rate after 8 hours in a workday and double time after 12 hours, subject to exceptions such as valid alternative workweeks. Work over 40 hours in a week also triggers overtime; do not count the same hour twice.
The state rule
California overtime: daily hours matter
California Labor Code 510 generally requires 1.5 times the regular rate after 8 hours in a workday and double time after 12 hours, subject to exceptions such as valid alternative workweeks. Work over 40 hours in a week also triggers overtime; do not count the same hour twice.
Next step
Compare the daily and weekly hours, check whether an exemption or alternative schedule applies, then keep your timesheets.
Compare the federal guide and the state debt guide. Checked September 25, 2026; legal and account details can differ.