Career Guide

Trucking Companies That Hire Felons

A felony doesn't have to end your career — trucking remains one of the most accessible high-paying paths for people with a record. Here's what you need to know before applying.

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What to Expect

Felon-friendly carriers exist — but eligibility depends on the type of offense, time since conviction, and your driving record. Companies range from large national fleets to regional and local operators.

OTR (Over the Road)

Long-haul fleets are often the most open to drivers with records — and pay the most.

Regional

Home weekly routes through specific states or regions, often with major carriers.

Local & Dedicated

Local routes are home daily but are typically harder to land as a first job.

5 Tips Before You Apply

1

Be upfront about your record

Honesty during the application matters more than the offense itself for most felon-friendly carriers.

2

Know the time-since-conviction rules

Many companies require 5–10 years since release for serious offenses; some have shorter windows.

3

Start with company-sponsored CDL training

Several large carriers train you for free in exchange for a 1-year contract — a great fit for new drivers.

4

Avoid hazmat early on

Hazmat endorsements require TSA clearance, which can disqualify candidates with certain felonies.

5

Build a clean recent record

Steady work history, references, and clean driving since release dramatically improve approval odds.

Frequently Asked Questions

See Companies Hiring Now

Get the full list of trucking companies known to hire drivers with a felony record, plus application tips.

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