Final answer:
Illegal interview questions include those about age, birthplace, religion, and other characteristics protected by anti-discrimination laws. Questions about education, current employment, and necessary job certifications are usually legal.
Step-by-step explanation:
Illegal Interview Questions
In the United States, it's illegal for an interviewer to ask certain personal questions that are protected by anti-discrimination laws. According to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and enforced by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), an interviewer cannot legally inquire about your age, birthplace, religion, marital status, citizenship, disability, or your plans regarding pregnancy. When you are asked a question like 'Which state were you born in?' during a job interview, it is considered off-limits as it could reveal information about your national origin, which is a protected characteristic.
On the other hand, questions about your education, present employment, or required certifications for the job (like a commercial driver's license), as well as your salary expectations, are generally permissible as they directly relate to your ability to perform the job. If you encounter an illegal question, it is appropriate to inquire why the interviewer needs that information and if comfortable, remind them that such questions are illegal. If discrimination in the hiring process is suspected, contacting the EEOC is advised.