Quick Answer

Amazon considers qualified applicants with criminal records where required by applicable fair-chance laws, and its hiring materials describe background screening. A conviction is not a promise of either acceptance or rejection. Check the specific role, location, and current job posting before applying. Warehouse employment, delivery-partner jobs, and Amazon Flex have different application processes.

Start your job search

Search Amazon's official hourly-job site for warehouse or fulfillment roles near your ZIP code. Read the shift, physical requirements, pay, and screening instructions in the posting. Keep your work history and references ready, and answer application questions accurately.

Open the official Amazon careers resource.

Watch: Does Amazon Hire Felons in 2026?

Watch our overview of Amazon hiring and background-check considerations. Then use the application guidance in this guide to plan your next step.

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Official sources for this update

• Amazon hiring FAQ

• Amazon EU background-check information (not a US hiring policy)

Quick answer, application links reviewed October 7, 2026. Current employer postings take priority over older pay examples elsewhere in this guide.

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About Amazon

3. Does Amazon Hire People with Felonies?

4. What Jobs Can Felons Get at Amazon?

5. Roles to research

6. Role-specific requirements

7. Advancement Opportunities

8. What to Expect: Amazon's Background Check

9. How to Apply to Amazon with a Felony Record

10. Common Questions About Working at Amazon with a Felony

11. Other Companies Like Amazon That Hire Felons

12. Final Thoughts

About Amazon

Amazon is the world's largest online retailer and one of America's biggest employers. The company operates over 1,000 fulfillment centers, delivery stations, and sortation centers across all 50 states.

With more than 1.5 million employees in the U.S., Amazon is constantly hiring. The company needs thousands of warehouse workers, delivery drivers, and fulfillment associates year-round. High turnover means frequent job openings.

For people with records, Amazon matters because they hire in volume. They need workers fast. And they've publicly committed to fair-chance hiring through the Fair Chance Business Pledge.

Does Amazon Hire People with Felonies?

Yes. Amazon's official policy is case-by-case evaluation.

Here's what that means in practice:

Official Policy

Amazon signed the Fair Chance Business Pledge in 2021. This means they committed to:

• Removing questions about criminal history from job applications

• Reviewing each applicant individually

• Considering time since conviction

• Evaluating relevance of the offense to the job

  
  

Real-World Practice

Most warehouse and fulfillment positions will hire people with felonies. Amazon processes thousands of applications weekly. They need bodies on the floor. If you're honest, show up on time, and can do the work, you have a real shot.

However, some positions have stricter requirements. Delivery drivers face more scrutiny because they drive company vehicles. Positions with access to customer data may have additional background requirements.

What Affects Hiring Decisions

Amazon considers several factors:

Time since conviction: We have not verified an Amazon-wide waiting period or numerical hiring odds. Review the current requirements and notices for the specific role and location.

Type of offense: Amazon reviews what you did. Theft is more problematic for warehouse work. Violence can be an issue depending on the specific charge.

Location: Some states have "Ban the Box" laws. Amazon must follow these in California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, New Mexico, Illinois, Minnesota, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Vermont, Hawaii, and Washington DC.

The specific job: Entry-level warehouse work is easier to get than roles with financial access or driving.

Disqualifying Factors

These make it very difficult (but not always impossible):

• Very recent convictions (less than 1 year)

• Theft or fraud (for positions handling products or money)

• Violent felonies (may be considered for non-customer-facing roles)

• Sex offenses (severely limits opportunities)

• Current warrants or pending charges

  
  

Time Requirements

We have not verified a published Amazon policy that guarantees eligibility after a particular number of years or an acceptance rate for applicants with convictions. Amazon says its hiring review can include work history, application answers and background-check results. Check the specific job's requirements and notices, and contact Amazon candidate support about your application.

What Jobs Can Felons Get at Amazon?

Amazon has multiple job categories. Your opportunities depend on your specific record and how much time has passed.

Warehouse Associate

Pay: $16-19/hour

Availability: Excellent

Background screening: Follow the requirements and notices for the specific position.

This is your best entry point. You'll sort, scan, and move packages. Physical work. 10-hour shifts are common. Amazon hires warehouse associates constantly.

Warehouse roles are one option to research. We have not verified an acceptance rate for applicants with convictions; check current vacancies and the screening requirements for the specific position.

Package Handler

Pay: $16-18/hour

Availability: Excellent

Background screening: Follow the requirements and notices for the specific position.

Similar to warehouse associate. You load and unload trucks, move packages, and organize shipments. This is physical labor. You'll be on your feet all day.

Good opportunity for people with records. Limited customer interaction. Focus is on work ethic and reliability.

Fulfillment Associate

Pay: $16-20/hour

Availability: Very Good

Background screening: Follow the requirements and notices for the specific position.

You pick items, pack boxes, and prepare orders for shipping. Some positions use technology like handheld scanners. More variety than basic warehouse work.

People with records get hired for these positions regularly. Amazon provides training. You start at the bottom and can move up.

Sortation Associate

Pay: $16-19/hour

Availability: Good

Background screening: Follow the requirements and notices for the specific position.

You organize packages by destination. Requires attention to detail. Less physically demanding than some warehouse roles.

Accepts people with records, though slightly more selective than basic warehouse positions.

Delivery Driver (Limited)

Pay: $18-22/hour

Availability: Moderate

Background screening: Follow the requirements and notices for the specific position.

This is harder to get with a record. Amazon checks driving history closely. Recent traffic violations or DUIs are problems. Theft charges are also concerning since you'll have access to packages.

Some drivers with older felonies (7+ years) have been hired. But expect this to be tougher than warehouse work.

Shift Manager/Supervisor (After Advancement)

Pay: $20-25/hour

Availability: Limited initially

Background screening: Follow the requirements and notices for the specific position.

You typically can't start here with a record. But you can promote into management after proving yourself on the warehouse floor. Many people have done this.

Amazon promotes from within. Work hard for 6-12 months, show leadership, and you can move up.

Roles to research

1. Warehouse Associate

2. Package Handler

3. Fulfillment Associate

   
   

Role-specific requirements

Requirements vary by role and location. Review the current job posting and screening notices rather than assuming that an entire job category accepts or excludes everyone with a record.

Advancement Opportunities

Amazon has a "promote from within" culture. Starting on the warehouse floor doesn't mean staying there forever. Paths include:

• Warehouse Associate → Problem Solver → Team Lead → Shift Manager

• Many managers started with felonies, worked hard, and moved up

• Amazon offers tuition assistance and training programs

What to Expect: Amazon's Background Check

Understanding the process helps you prepare mentally and practically.

When It Happens

Amazon conducts background checks after they make a conditional job offer. This means:

1. You apply online

2. You may do a video or phone interview

3. They offer you the job (conditional)

4. Then they run the background check

5. Final decision comes after results

This is good news. They've already decided they want you before seeing your record. You get a chance to explain.

What They Check

Amazon uses third-party companies (often Sterling or Accurate Background) to conduct checks. They review:

Criminal Records:

• Felony convictions

• Misdemeanor convictions

• Pending charges

• Warrants

  
  

Employment Verification:

• Past jobs you listed

• Employment dates

  
  

Driving Records (for driver positions):

• License status

• Traffic violations

• DUIs or suspended licenses

  
  

Sex Offender Registry:

• Required by law for all employers

  
  

How Far Back They Look

Standard: 7 years for most positions in most states

Exceptions:

• California, Colorado, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, and Washington have seven-year limits by law

• Some states allow Amazon to see your entire history

• Serious violent felonies may appear regardless of age

  
  

Important: "Seven-year rule" doesn't mean Amazon rejects everything older than seven years. It means they can't see it in some states. In states without this protection, they see everything but may still hire you with older convictions.

Timeline

• Application to offer: 1-2 weeks (can be same day during hiring surges)

• Background check processing: 3-7 business days

• Final decision: Usually within 48 hours of results

Total timeline: Expect 2-3 weeks from application to start date if everything goes smoothly.

What Happens After

If approved: You'll get an email or call confirming your start date. You'll complete online training modules and attend an in-person orientation.

If denied: Amazon typically sends an email. They must provide a pre-adverse action notice giving you a chance to dispute errors. You have 5-10 days to respond if something is wrong.

If you want to dispute: Check your background report for errors immediately. Wrong dates, mixed-up identities, or dismissed charges that appear as convictions are common mistakes. You can dispute these with the background check company.

How to Apply to Amazon with a Felony Record

Follow these steps to maximize your chances:

1. Be honest about your record.

Amazon asks about convictions after the conditional offer. Don't lie. They will find out. Being truthful shows integrity. Lying gets you automatically rejected.

2. Apply online at amazon.jobs or amazondelivers.jobs

Search for current warehouse associate or fulfillment associate openings in your location. Compare the listed requirements and screening notices before applying.

3. Complete the application thoroughly.

Fill out every section. Include all past work experience, even short jobs. Show you're reliable and have a work history.

4. Emphasize your strengths in the interview.

Talk about:

• Your work ethic

• Physical stamina

• Ability to follow directions

• Reliability and attendance

• Willingness to work any shift

  
  

5. Prepare a 60-second explanation of your record.

If asked, keep it short:

• "I made a mistake in [year]"

• "I took full responsibility"

• "I completed my sentence/probation"

• "I've learned from it and stayed out of trouble since"

• "I'm looking for a company that gives people a chance to prove themselves"

  
  

6. Apply to multiple Amazon facilities.

If one location says no, try another. Different hiring managers make different decisions. Some facilities are more lenient than others.

7. Highlight any certifications or training.

Forklift certification, OSHA training, or warehouse experience helps. Amazon values skills.

8. Be flexible with shifts.

Night shift and weekend positions are easier to get. Amazon needs overnight workers. If you're willing to work less desirable hours, you're more valuable.

9. Follow up appropriately.

If you don't hear back in 2 weeks, call or visit the facility. Show you're serious.

10. Consider applying during peak season.

October through December is Amazon's busiest time. They hire thousands of temporary workers. Many temp positions convert to permanent. It's easier to get hired when they're desperate for bodies.

Common Questions About Working at Amazon with a Felony

Does Amazon hire violent felons?

Amazon considers qualified applicants with criminal records where required by applicable fair-chance laws, and its hiring materials describe background screening. A conviction is not a promise of either acceptance or rejection. Check the specific role, location, and current job posting before applying. Warehouse employment, delivery-partner jobs, and Amazon Flex have different application processes.

How long do I need to wait after my conviction?

We have not verified a published Amazon policy that guarantees eligibility after a particular number of years or an acceptance rate for applicants with convictions. Amazon says its hiring review can include work history, application answers and background-check results. Check the specific job's requirements and notices, and contact Amazon candidate support about your application.

Will Amazon hire me with a drug charge?

A drug-related conviction does not let us predict an Amazon hiring outcome. We have not verified a conviction-age threshold or acceptance rate for this situation. Review the specific job's requirements and screening notices, answer application questions accurately, and contact Amazon candidate support about your application.

Can I work at Amazon if I'm on probation?

Yes. Amazon hires people on probation regularly. Make sure your probation officer approves the job. Some probation terms restrict certain work (like handling money or working near schools). Standard warehouse work is usually fine. Give Amazon your probation officer's contact info if they ask.

Does Amazon do drug testing?

Yes, for most positions. Warehouse associates typically get drug tested at the time of hire. Amazon tests for marijuana in some states but not all. The company changed its policy in 2021 to stop testing for THC in states where marijuana is legal (except for DOT-regulated positions like delivery drivers). If you're in a legal state and applying for warehouse work, marijuana use may not disqualify you. Other drugs will.

What if I have theft or fraud charges?

We have not verified a published Amazon rule that guarantees or excludes hiring based on theft or fraud convictions after a particular number of years. Requirements vary by role and location. Review the current job posting and screening notices, and answer the application's questions accurately.

Does Amazon hire in all states?

Yes, Amazon operates in all 50 states. They hire people with records nationwide. Some states have Ban the Box laws that help you by limiting what Amazon can ask. States with strong protections include California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Illinois, and several Northeast states.

Can I advance with a felony record at Amazon?

Yes. Amazon promotes from within. Many current managers and supervisors started as warehouse associates with criminal records. If you work hard, show up consistently, and demonstrate leadership, you can move up. The company offers Career Choice programs that pay tuition for education and training.

Other Companies Like Amazon That Hire Felons

If Amazon doesn't work out, these similar companies also hire people with records:

FedEx Ground - Package handlers, warehouse, logistics. Similar pay ($17-22/hour). Known for case-by-case hiring.

UPS - Package handlers, sorters, warehouse. Union jobs with good pay ($15-21/hour starting). Promotes from within. Easier to get warehouse roles than driving positions.

Walmart - Warehouse, distribution centers, retail. Massive employer. Case-by-case evaluation. Present in all states.

Target - Distribution centers, warehouse, fulfillment. Similar to Amazon. Fair-chance hiring policies. $15-20/hour starting.

U-Haul - Explicitly states "we hire felons." Customer service, hitch installation, warehouse. More flexible than most companies.

Waste Management - Waste collection, recycling, driving. Physical work. Good pay ($15-23/hour). Known for second-chance hiring.

Tyson Foods - Food processing, production, packaging. Major employer of people with records. $14-19/hour. Plants in many states.

Staffing Agencies - Labor Ready, Manpower, Randstad, Kelly Services. Day labor and temp-to-hire. Easier to get initial work. Can lead to permanent positions.

Final Thoughts

Amazon hires thousands of people with felony records every year. Your past doesn't automatically disqualify you.

Be truthful on your application and review the requirements and notices for each current opening. Do not assume that waiting a particular number of years guarantees eligibility or that a job category has a verified acceptance rate.

Many people with records have rebuilt their careers at Amazon. Some started on the warehouse floor and now manage teams. Others used Amazon's tuition assistance to get degrees and moved into corporate roles.

You can do this too.

Start here: Visit amazon.jobs or amazondelivers.jobs and search for warehouse or fulfillment positions in your area.

Need more help? Download our free Job Application Kit at FelonFriendlyJobsNow.com - includes resume templates, interview scripts, and application tracking tools.