Finding a solid job with a felony conviction can feel like an uphill battle. But here’s the good news—many trucking companies are offering second chances. If you’re ready to turn the page and build a career, CDL jobs for felons can be your road to financial freedom and dignity.
The trucking industry is one of the few sectors actively offering second chances. Because the demand for truck drivers is booming. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) estimates a shortage of over 80,000 drivers in 2025, projected to hit 160,000 by 2030. These companies follow FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) regulations while balancing risk, safety, and workforce needs.
What Is a CDL and Why Does It Matter?
A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is the key that unlocks the door to professional truck driving. There are three main types of CDL licenses:
- Class A: Required to drive big rigs, tractor-trailers, and interstate trucks.
- Class B: For straight trucks, delivery trucks, and city buses.
- Class C: Covers small vehicles transporting hazardous materials or passengers.
Felons with a CDL—especially Class A—have far more job opportunities and higher earning potential. Entry-level drivers can make around $45,000–$55,000 annually, while experienced over-the-road (OTR) drivers can earn $70,000 or more.
Can Felons Really Get CDL Jobs in 2026?
Yes, they can—but with some conditions.
Felony-Friendly Areas of Trucking:
- OTR (Over-the-Road) Driving
- Owner-Operators
- Freight Hauling
- Local Delivery in Some States
More Restricted Areas:
- Hazmat Endorsements (especially for drug or terrorism-related felonies)
- Driving School Buses (restricted for violent or sexual offenses)
- Federal Government Freight Contracts
FMCSA Laws and CDL Eligibility in the USA
To work legally as a truck driver, every applicant must follow Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules.
Key CDL Requirements
A driver qualifies for a CDL when they:
- Are at least 18 years old (intrastate) or 21 years old (interstate)
- Hold a valid state driver’s license
- Pass DOT physical exam
- Clear drug and alcohol screening
- Complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT)
Waiting Periods for 2and Chance Trucking Jobs
Hiring depends heavily on how much time has passed since conviction.
| Offense Type | Typical Waiting Period |
|---|---|
| Non-violent felony | 3–5 years |
| Drug possession | 5–10 years |
| DUI (single offense) | 3–7 years |
| Violent felony | 7–10+ years |
| Multiple felonies | Case-by-case |
Companies evaluate rehabilitation evidence, such as:
- Steady work history
- Clean driving record
- Completed probation
Top Second Chance Trucking Companies That Hire Felons in 2026
These companies are known to give second chances, depending on the type of felony, how long ago it occurred, and your overall record.
1. Roehl Transport
- Felony Wait Period: Case-by-case, usually 5–7 years
- Programs: Paid CDL training program
- Starting Pay: Around $60,000/year after training
- Note: Great for entry-level drivers
2. Schneider National
- Felony Wait Period: 7 years or more
- Type of Offense: No violent or sexual offenses
- Programs: CDL training reimbursement
- Location: Nationwide
3. Swift Transportation
- Felony Wait Period: Minimum 5 years
- Programs: Paid CDL training, tuition reimbursement
- Hiring Areas: Most U.S. states
- Extra: Known for second-chance opportunities
4. Western Express
- Felony Wait Period: As little as 3 years for non-violent crimes
- CDL Training: Offered through partner schools
- Trucking Type: OTR & regional
5. Prime Inc.
- Felony Wait Period: 7–10 years
- Training Provided: Yes
- Best For: Clean driving record post-felony
6. CR England
- Felony Wait Period: 10 years for most offenses
- Programs: CDL training offered
- Hires: Felons on a case-by-case basis
7. Knight Transportation
- Felony Wait Period: 7+ years
- Program: No upfront CDL costs for training
- Note: Clean DMV record boosts your chances
8. Maverick Transportation
- Felony Wait Period: 5–10 years
- Specialty: Flatbed trucking
- CDL School Option: Yes
Felony-Friendly Trucking Companies in USA (2026)
| # | Company Name | Felony Friendly | Typical Waiting Period | CDL Training Program | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Swift Transportation | Yes | 5–7 years | Yes | One of the largest carriers in the USA |
| 2 | CR England | Yes | 3–5 years | Yes | Entry-level driver friendly |
| 3 | Schneider National | Yes | Case-by-case | Yes | Strong safety policies |
| 4 | Prime Inc. | Yes | 5+ years | Yes | Paid CDL training available |
| 5 | Roehl Transport | Yes | 3–5 years | Yes | “Get Your CDL” program |
| 6 | Knight Transportation | Yes | 5+ years | Yes | Merged with Swift |
| 7 | Werner Enterprises | Yes | 5–7 years | Yes | Nationwide hiring |
| 8 | JB Hunt | Limited | 7+ years | No | More selective hiring |
| 9 | Maverick Transportation | Yes | 5+ years | Yes | Flatbed specialization |
| 10 | Western Express | Yes (High) | 0–3 years | Yes | Very felony-friendly |
| 11 | USA Truck | Yes | 4–6 years | Yes | Regional + OTR jobs |
| 12 | Covenant Transport | Yes | 5+ years | Yes | Team driving focus |
| 13 | Barr-Nunn Transportation | Yes | 5+ years | No | Good pay structure |
| 14 | Paschall Truck Lines (PTL) | Yes | 3–5 years | Yes | Veteran-friendly company |
| 15 | KLLM Transport Services | Yes | 3–5 years | Yes | CDL academy available |
| 16 | TransAm Trucking | Yes | 2–5 years | Yes | Flexible hiring criteria |
| 17 | Hirschbach Motor Lines | Yes | 3–5 years | Yes | Refrigerated freight |
| 18 | Carolina Cargo | Yes (Very High) | 0–2 years | No | Extremely felony-friendly |
| 19 | CRST International | Yes | 1–3 years | Yes | Entry-level opportunities |
| 20 | Freymiller | Yes | 5+ years | No | Higher experience preferred |
| 21 | TMC Transportation | Yes | 5+ years | Yes | Flatbed training program |
| 22 | Boyd Bros Transportation | Yes | 3–5 years | Yes | Focus on flatbed trucking |
| 23 | Stevens Transport | Yes | 3–5 years | Yes | Training-focused company |
| 24 | Millis Transfer | Yes | 5+ years | Yes | Known for driver training |
| 25 | Celadon (select divisions) | Limited | Case-by-case | No | Depends on operational status |
| 26 | Pam Transport | Yes | 3–5 years | Yes | Good for beginners |
| 27 | Mesilla Valley Transportation (MVT) | Yes | 3–5 years | Yes | Regional + OTR |
| 28 | Falcon Transport (varies) | Limited | Case-by-case | No | Hiring depends on region |
Salary Expectations in Second Chance Trucking Jobs
Truck driving provides stable and competitive income, even for second-chance applicants.
Average Salary (USA – 2026)
- Entry-level: $45,000 – $60,000/year
- Mid-level (2–5 years): $60,000 – $80,000/year
- Experienced drivers: $80,000 – $100,000+
Specialized roles increase earnings:
- Hazmat drivers: +$10,000 annually
- Owner-operators: $120,000+ gross income
CDL Training Schools That Accept Felons
Many trucking schools are open to working with individuals with past convictions. However, their ability to accept you often depends on the nature of your record and whether you’re on parole or probation.
Here are some reputable CDL training schools for felons:
✔️ Roadmaster Drivers School
- Locations: 20+ cities nationwide
- Placement Help: Yes
- Felony Policy: Case-by-case
✔️ SAGE Truck Driving Schools
- Locations: 25+ nationwide
- Assistance: Resume, job placement
- Felony Policy: Based on hiring partners
✔️ TDI – Truck Driver Institute
- Locations: Southeastern U.S.
- Training Duration: 3 weeks
- Hire Rate Post Graduation: 80%+
Legal and DMV Restrictions for Felons
Some felonies can legally prevent you from obtaining a CDL. These include:
| Type of Felony | Effect on CDL |
| Drug trafficking | Possible disqualification for life |
| Human trafficking | Lifetime disqualification |
| Use of vehicle in felony | Minimum 1-year disqualification |
| DUI/DWI with CDL in use | Minimum 1-year disqualification |
| Hit and run or vehicular manslaughter | Disqualification varies by state |
Each state has its own DMV and Department of Transportation rules. Here are a few:
- Texas: Felons can apply after 5–10 years depending on the offense
- California: CDL eligibility possible if no recent DUI or violent crime
- Florida: Case-by-case eligibility, easier if felony was non-violent
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired?
If you’re serious about starting a trucking career with a felony record, you’ll need to do a little groundwork. Here’s a checklist:
- Get Your Record Expunged (if eligible): Start by visiting your state’s legal aid website.
- Be Honest on Applications: Never lie about convictions—they will show up.
- Get a Clean Driving Record: Keep your personal driving record spotless.
- Take a CDL Refresher Course: Boost your resume with current skills.
- Secure a DOT Medical Card: Pass your Department of Transportation physical.
Success Stories: From Prison to Big Rigs
Raymond J., Texas:
After serving 8 years for a non-violent felony, Raymond enrolled in Roadmaster’s CDL training and landed a job with Western Express. “They didn’t judge me—they just asked if I was ready to work,” he says. Today, he earns over $60,000/year and plans to buy his own truck.
Angela M., Georgia:
Angela was turned down by three employers before CR England took a chance. Now she trains other women entering the industry and advocates for second-chance employment.
Why Does the Trucking Industry Offer More Chances?
Unlike office jobs that often involve background checks, insurance liabilities, or customer interaction, truck driving is all about independence, responsibility, and performance. If you show up, deliver loads safely, and maintain your rig, most companies won’t care about a mistake you made 10 years ago.
Benefits of Second Chance Trucking Careers
Truck driving offers several practical advantages:
- High demand job security
- No college degree required
- Fast hiring process
- Nationwide opportunities
- Career growth into owner-operator roles
More Opportunities: Does Dollar General Hire Felons?
Tips to Increase Hiring Chances in 2and Chance Trucking Companies
- Apply to 10–15 companies simultaneously
- Avoid new legal issues
- Maintain a clean motor vehicle record (MVR)
- Start with over-the-road (OTR) jobs
- Gain 12 months of experience quickly
Your Future in Trucking
If you’re looking for a real shot at rebuilding your life, CDL jobs for felons are one of the most reliable and well-paying options out there in 2026. While not every company will open its doors, many will—especially if you come prepared, clean, and committed.
Trucking isn’t just a job—it’s a career path, a chance to travel, earn good money, and leave your past behind in the rearview mirror.
FAQs
Can a felon get a CDL license in any state?
Yes, but eligibility depends on the nature and date of the conviction.
What felonies disqualify you from being a truck driver?
Major disqualifiers include drug trafficking, murder, terrorism, and human trafficking.
How much do felon-friendly trucking companies pay?
Most entry-level jobs pay between $45,000–$60,000, with potential for more after 1–2 years.
Do all trucking companies run background checks?
Yes, but some focus on recent criminal activity rather than older convictions.
Are there CDL training programs that help felons?
Absolutely. Schools like Roadmaster and SAGE often help with placement too.
