According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, over 70 million Americans have a criminal record, and roughly 19 million have felony convictions. That means 1 in 3 working-age adults face barriers to employment because of their past. In 2024 alone, the U.S. added over 8.9 million job openings, and companies like Amazon were among the top recruiters across the nation.
Does Amazon hire felons?
Yes, Amazon can hire felons, but the process depends on several factors, like the nature of the offense, how long ago it occurred, state laws, and the job role.
What Is Amazon’s Hiring Policy on Felons?
Amazon has not published a blanket policy stating “Yes” or “No” to felon hiring—but based on data, court filings, job board experiences, and company statements, here’s what we know:
Amazon does not automatically disqualify candidates with felony convictions.
That’s straight from the horse’s mouth. Amazon has stated in job listings and recruitment events that it considers all applicants, regardless of background, and complies with Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws.
However, hiring is evaluated on a case-by-case basis, meaning your individual history and the job role you apply for will determine whether or not you’re hired.
Types of Jobs at Amazon Open to Felons
While tech and corporate roles may require deeper scrutiny, Amazon offers many entry-level and mid-tier positions that are open to candidates with felony backgrounds:
🔹 Common Positions Where Felons Have Been Hired
- Warehouse Associate
- Fulfillment Center Picker/Packer
- Delivery Driver (Amazon DSP)
- Sortation Center Worker
- Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods Staff
- Customer Service Rep (in some locations)
In 2022, Amazon’s Kentucky fulfillment center hired 36 individuals with felony backgrounds for warehouse roles after collaborating with local re-entry programs.
Amazon’s Background Check Process
Amazon runs background checks on every new hire. Here’s what’s involved:
What They Check:
- Criminal History (usually last 7 years)
- Employment History
- Education Verification
- Driving Records (for driver roles)
Background checks are run through third-party companies like Accurate Background or First Advantage, and can take 1 to 2 weeks.
Important Facts:
- Amazon follows the FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act) – which means they have to notify you before taking adverse action based on your background.
- Ban the Box laws apply in many states – meaning you can’t be asked about your criminal history on the initial job application.
Does Amazon Hire You If You Have a Misdemeanor?
Yes, Amazon hires people with misdemeanors.
In fact, misdemeanors are generally treated with more leniency than felonies in the hiring process. Amazon’s recruiters typically weigh the type of offense, how long ago it occurred, and whether the misdemeanor relates to the job duties.
Examples of Common Misdemeanors Amazon Has Overlooked:
- Disorderly conduct (non-violent)
- Public intoxication
- Petty theft (if several years old)
- Trespassing
- Driving with a suspended license
Does Amazon Drug Test?
Yes, Amazon conducts drug tests — but not for every position or location.
The drug testing policy depends on:
- Job type (safety-sensitive roles are more likely to test)
- Location laws
- Hiring contractors vs. direct employees
Types of Drug Tests Amazon Uses:
- Mouth swab tests – Most common for warehouse, sortation, and delivery roles
- Urine tests – Less common, used for corporate or DOT-regulated driving jobs
Substances Screened:
Typically includes:
- THC (marijuana)
- Cocaine
- Opiates
- Methamphetamines
- PCP
In states where recreational cannabis is legal (like California, New York, and Illinois), Amazon has stated it will no longer test for THC for most positions, unless it’s federally required.
Does Amazon Hire Felons With Burglary Charges?
Amazon may hire individuals with burglary convictions, depending on the details of the offense. If the burglary was non-violent, occurred many years ago, and didn’t involve theft from a prior employer or use of weapons, there is a chance to be hired—especially for entry-level warehouse roles.
However, recent or violent burglary charges, particularly those involving break-ins into occupied homes or physical threats, can make it much harder to get hired. Amazon reviews applicants on a case-by-case basis and looks at rehabilitation efforts, work history, and time since the offense. Transparency during the application process is critical to improving your chances.
More Opportunities: Does Hobby Lobby Hire Felons in 2025?
Does Amazon Hire Felons With Theft Charges?
Yes, Amazon has hired individuals with theft convictions, but the context and severity of the charge play a major role. A single theft offense from years ago, especially if it was non-violent and petty (like shoplifting), may not affect your application for positions like warehouse or sortation associate.
However, serious theft crimes—such as embezzlement, grand larceny, or repeated offenses—may disqualify you, especially if you’re applying for roles that involve handling merchandise or company property. If the theft was job-related or involved dishonesty in a professional setting, the hiring process becomes stricter. That said, Amazon considers rehabilitation, references, and honesty when evaluating applicants with past theft records.
Average Salary for Felons at Amazon
Amazon pays felons the same as other employees in the same job role. There is no pay discrimination based on criminal history. Entry-level warehouse associates typically earn $18–$20 per hour, depending on location, shift, and job type. Delivery drivers (through Amazon DSP partners) usually make $20–$24 per hour, and night or weekend shifts often come with bonuses or shift differentials.
On average, a full-time Amazon employee earns between $36,000 and $48,000 per year. Amazon also provides benefits such as health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, and access to the Career Choice program, which offers tuition support. Felons who get hired can access the same benefits as everyone else.
What Factors Impact Amazon’s Hiring Decisions?
Hiring managers consider multiple factors before making a decision:
Here’s What Matters:
- Nature of the Offense – violent crimes may reduce chances
- Time Since Conviction – older offenses are less impactful
- Rehabilitation or Work Since Release
- Job Role You’re Applying For
- State and Federal Law Compliance
Example: A 10-year-old conviction for marijuana possession may not weigh heavily, especially for a warehouse job, while a recent fraud conviction might disqualify you from a finance-related position.
State Laws That Affect Felon Hiring at Amazon
Some states have more supportive hiring environments for ex-felons due to “Fair Chance” hiring laws.
States With Strong Ban-The-Box or Fair Chance Laws:
- California
- New York
- Illinois
- Washington
- Colorado
In these states, Amazon and other employers must wait until later in the hiring process to conduct background checks or ask about criminal records.
Tips for Felons Applying at Amazon
Here are real-world, actionable tips to increase your chances:
- ✅ Be honest on your application
- 📝 Build a strong resume—focus on warehouse, driving, or logistics experience
- 📄 Get character references (from parole officers, mentors, or past employers)
- 🎯 Choose job roles that don’t directly conflict with your past
- 👕 Dress appropriately for interviews—even if virtual
- 💬 Be ready to explain your past and what you’ve learned
Second-Chance Hiring Programs & Amazon
While Amazon isn’t officially a “Second Chance Employer,” they’ve hired thousands through reentry programs and partnerships.
Amazon & Partnerships:
- Partnered with Honest Jobs – a platform that connects felons with employment
- Reentry Program Partnerships – in cities like Chicago, Atlanta, and Seattle
- Veterans with Records – Amazon prioritizes veteran hiring, including those with military-related offenses
Legal Rights of Applicants With a Felony Record
Your Rights:
- Employers must provide a copy of your background check if used to reject you
- Under the FCRA, you can dispute incorrect info
- In some states, you have the right to an individualized assessment before rejection
Always ask for a copy of your background report if denied. Mistakes happen, and you have the right to correct them.
Final Thoughts
Amazon isn’t perfect, but they’re one of the largest companies in America making room for second chances. Whether you’ve got a misdemeanor or felony — even theft or burglary on your record — you still have a shot.
FAQs
What is Amazon’s policy on second chances?
Amazon doesn’t have an official “second chance” policy, but their case-by-case approach means second chances are possible.
Can felons become Amazon delivery drivers?
Yes, depending on the type of felony and how long ago it occurred.
Are there felon-friendly Amazon locations?
Yes, especially in states like California, Texas, Illinois, and Georgia.
