Recruitment

Can I ask the age of the candidate during a job interview?

Publié le 09 juin 2026 - Entreprendre Service Public / (Prime Minister)

During a job interview, a recruiter must respect the principle of non-discrimination. Questions related to origin, gender or sexual orientation are prohibited. However, certain nuances may exist, particularly for the age of the candidate. Undertake Public Service explains.

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Article L1132-1 of the Labor Code states that no person may be excluded from a recruitment procedure because of his age. The recruiter must respect this principle of non-discrimination.

However, this prohibition must be nuanced. Article L1133-2 of the Labor Code provides that: differences in treatment on grounds of age do not constitute discrimination where they are objectively and reasonably justified by a legitimate aim ».

This can be:

  • the preservation of the health or safety of the worker;
  • support for his professional integration, his reclassification...

It is therefore possible to prohibit access to employment in order to guarantee the protection of young people or older workers, for example. The legitimate aim is to ensure the safety of employees.

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