Quick Answer

Yes, Carvana hires individuals with felony convictions for various positions. As a Fortune 500 online used car retailer headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, Carvana operates more than 18 Inspection and Reconditioning Centers nationwide plus 30+ iconic car vending machines. The company employs approximately 17,400 employees as of 2024 and serves 300+ US markets. Employment decisions must follow EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment.

The law prohibits companies from having a blanket policy excluding all felons. Instead, they must conduct an individualized assessment of the conviction to determine if it is job-related and consistent with business necessity. Arizona, where Carvana is headquartered, has Ban the Box for public employers only, with some cities (Phoenix, Tempe, Flagstaff, Tucson) having local ordinances for private employers.

The greatest barriers are created by felonies related to theft, fraud, or forgery (due to handling vehicle titles, customer financial information, and high-value inventory), driving-related offenses (delivery roles require clean driving record for past 3 years), and drug offenses (mandatory non-DOT 4-panel drug screen). Recent offenses within the past 7 years face the highest scrutiny.

Best opportunities exist in Inspection Center positions including Automotive Detailer, Lot Attendant, and Material Handler. These high-volume roles prioritize reliability and work ethic over background. Carvana was named #1 Retailer by Forbes (2022 America's Best Employers) and offers 100% employer-paid medical premiums for individual coverage—an exceptional benefit for entry-level positions.

Table of Content

1. Quick Answer

2. Felon-Friendly Scorecard

3. Eligibility Checklist

4. Critical Regulatory Information

5. Company Overview

6. Hiring Policy Analysis

7. Background Check Process

8. Application Strategy

9. Tips for Applicants with Records

10. Benefits Overview

11. Frequently Asked Questions

12. Alternative Second Chance Employers

13. Conclusion

14. Disclaimer

Felon-Friendly Scorecard

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying, honestly assess whether you meet these baseline requirements:

• No Blanket Exclusion: Must be aware that Carvana is not allowed to automatically exclude you solely for being a felon. EEOC guidelines require individualized assessment based on offense nature, time elapsed, and job relevance.

  
  

• Job-Related Assessment: Must be prepared for the company to evaluate whether your felony is related to the job duties. Theft/fraud convictions face scrutiny for all positions; driving offenses particularly impact delivery roles.

  
  

• Driving Record (Delivery Roles): Delivery Advocate positions require a valid driver's license and clean driving record for the past 3 years. DUI/DWI, license suspensions, or multiple violations are disqualifying for these roles.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must pass mandatory non-DOT 4-panel pre-employment drug screening. Carvana maintains a drug-free workplace policy. Failed drug test is an immediate disqualifier.

  
  

• Physical Requirements: Inspection Center roles require standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, working outdoors in various weather conditions, and manual dexterity for detailing work.

  
  

• Honesty is Paramount: Must be completely honest about your criminal record when asked. Lying is an immediate disqualifier and can result in termination if discovered later.

  
  

• Work Authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the United States and able to provide required I-9 documentation.

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the legal landscape for criminal records in employment is essential for Second Chance applicants. Carvana is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, and operates Inspection Centers across multiple states including Arizona, California, Virginia, Ohio, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and others. Each state has varying fair chance hiring protections, with Arizona applying Ban the Box only to public employers.

EEOC Guidelines

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission advises employers not to automatically refuse applicants based on criminal records. Employers must conduct an individualized assessment using the Green Factors:

(1) Nature and gravity of the offense;

(2) Time elapsed since the offense and/or completion of sentence;

(3) Nature of the job sought and its relationship to the offense. Blanket policies excluding all felons are prohibited under Title VII when they have disparate impact.

FCRA Requirements

If a third party conducts the background check and employment is denied based on the report, Carvana must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) adverse action procedures:

(1) Provide pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report and summary of FCRA rights;

(2) Allow reasonable time to dispute inaccuracies;

(3) Provide final adverse action notice if decision stands. Standard 7-year lookback applies for most non-conviction information.

State-Specific Considerations

Arizona, where Carvana is headquartered, has Ban the Box for public employers only (Executive Order 2017). Private employers like Carvana are not covered by statewide Ban the Box, but several cities including Phoenix, Tempe, Flagstaff, and Tucson have local ordinances prohibiting criminal history questions until after a conditional offer. California, where Carvana operates the Rocklin Inspection Center, has stronger protections under the California Fair Chance Act covering private employers with 5+ employees. Virginia and other states where Inspection Centers are located have varying protections.

Automotive Retail-Specific Considerations

The automotive retail industry involves high-value vehicle inventory, vehicle title handling, and customer financial transactions. This creates heightened scrutiny for theft, fraud, and forgery convictions. Delivery positions require vehicle operation, creating strict driving record requirements. However, Inspection Center reconditioning roles have lower barriers as they focus on vehicle preparation rather than customer interaction or financial handling.

Company Overview

Carvana Co. (NYSE: CVNA) is an online used car retailer founded in 2012 by Ernest Garcia III, Ryan Keeton, and Ben Huston in Phoenix, Arizona. The company pioneered the e-commerce model for used car buying, featuring its iconic car vending machines—fully automated, coin-operated towers that dispense purchased vehicles. Carvana debuted on the Fortune 500 in 2021 as one of the youngest companies ever added, ranking #314 in 2025 after climbing 63 spots from the previous year.

The company operates through two primary channels: online sales with as-soon-as-next-day delivery to 300+ US markets, and its signature car vending machines (30+ locations nationwide). Behind the scenes, Carvana's Inspection and Reconditioning Centers (IRCs) are where vehicles undergo 150-point inspections, repairs, reconditioning, and 360-degree photography before listing. These centers employ hundreds of workers each and represent the best entry-level opportunities for Second Chance applicants.

Carvana faced significant challenges during 2022-2023, reducing headcount from a peak of 21,000 to 13,700. However, the company has rebounded strongly, increasing to 17,400 employees by 2024 and posting record quarterly earnings. The company was named #1 Retailer on Forbes' 2022 America's Best Employers list and emphasizes its people-first culture and comprehensive benefits package.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 2012 (Phoenix, Arizona)

• Headquarters: Tempe, Arizona

• Stock Exchange: NYSE: CVNA

• Employees: 17,400 (2024)

• Fortune 500 Rank: #314 (2025)

• Inspection Centers: 18+ locations including VA, OH, OK, AR, CA, and more

• Car Vending Machines: 30+ locations nationwide

• Markets Served: 300+ US markets

• CEO: Ernest Garcia III (Co-Founder)

Hiring Policy Analysis

Carvana follows EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment of applicants with criminal records. The company cannot maintain blanket exclusion policies and evaluates each applicant based on the nature of their conviction, time elapsed, and relationship to the job. As a company that emphasizes treating people better and was recognized as the #1 Retailer to Work For, Carvana has a culture that may be more receptive to Second Chance applicants who demonstrate reliability and commitment. The company's high-volume hiring needs at Inspection Centers create consistent opportunities.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by driving requirements, customer interaction, financial handling, and access to vehicle inventory and titles.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Glassdoor, Indeed, PayScale, and employee reports. Actual compensation varies by location and experience. Carvana's Inspection Centers typically operate multiple shifts with overtime available.

Career Path Examples

Carvana emphasizes internal advancement and offers training programs. The company's values-based culture and rapid growth create advancement opportunities for reliable performers.

Inspection Center Track: Lot Attendant/Detailer ($15-19/hr) → Inventory Specialist ($18-22/hr) → Team Lead ($22-26/hr) → Operations Manager ($60K-80K/yr) → General Manager ($100K-150K+/yr). Typical 2-3 years per advancement level.

Automotive Services Track: Entry Technician ($20-24/hr) → Automotive Technician ($24-28/hr) → Master Technician ($28-35/hr) → Shop Lead ($32-38/hr) → Service Manager ($70K-95K/yr). ASE certification accelerates advancement.

Customer Experience Track: Customer Advocate ($17-19/hr) → Senior Advocate ($28-31/hr) → Team Lead ($26-32/hr) → Customer Experience Manager ($55K-75K/yr) → Director ($100K+/yr). Performance-driven advancement.

Background Check Process

Understanding Carvana's background check process helps you prepare. The company conducts background checks after a conditional job offer, which allows you to interview and demonstrate your qualifications first.

• What They Check: Criminal history at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification through SSN trace; driving record (MVR) for delivery positions requiring clean 3-year history; drug screening (non-DOT 4-panel); employment history verification.

  
  

• Lookback Period: Standard 7-year lookback under FCRA. Individualized assessment considers time elapsed, offense nature, and job relevance. Older offenses with demonstrated rehabilitation have better outcomes.

  
  

• Timeline: The hiring process typically takes 1-3 weeks from application to start date. Background checks take 5-10 business days after authorization. Drug screening results available within 2-3 days. The company's onboarding process typically takes about two weeks.

  
  

• Process Flow: Application submitted → Phone screening → Interview → Conditional offer extended → Background check and drug test authorization → Checks conducted → Results reviewed using individualized assessment → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Final hiring decision → Start date confirmed → Orientation.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Recent theft, fraud, or forgery convictions (vehicle titles, financial data access); failed drug test (zero tolerance); driving offenses for delivery roles (DUI, license suspensions, multiple violations within 3 years); dishonesty during application.

Position-Specific Concerns: Delivery Advocate roles: any driving violation within 3 years is potentially disqualifying. Customer-facing roles: fraud and theft face higher scrutiny. Inspection Center roles: focus on reliability—theft convictions still scrutinized but other offenses may be more acceptable.

Case-by-Case Consideration: Older offenses (7+ years); non-violent crimes unrelated to automotive/financial duties; offenses with demonstrated rehabilitation; minor drug possession (though drug test still required). Inspection Center roles are generally most accessible.

Your Rights as Applicant

• FCRA Protections: You must receive written notice and provide consent before any background check. If denied based on the report, you're entitled to a copy and the right to dispute inaccuracies before final decision.

  
  

• Pre-Adverse Action Notice: Before a final decision based on background check results, you must receive notice with a copy of the report and a summary of your rights. You have reasonable time to respond with corrections or mitigating information.

  
  

• EEOC Protection: You have the right to an individualized assessment. Blanket exclusions based solely on criminal record are prohibited. Carvana must consider the Green Factors: nature of offense, time elapsed, and job relevance.

  
  

• State/Local Protections: If applying at locations in Phoenix, Tempe, Flagstaff, Tucson, or California, additional local Ban the Box protections may apply. Research the specific protections in your area before applying.

Application Strategy

1. Target Inspection Center Positions: Focus on Lot Attendant, Automotive Detailer, and Material Handler positions at Carvana's Inspection and Reconditioning Centers. These roles have the highest hiring volume and lowest barriers. Avoid Delivery Advocate if you have any driving history concerns.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit applications through carvana.com/careers. Carvana also posts positions on Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. The company frequently holds hiring events at new Inspection Centers—watch for announcements in your area.

   
   

3. Confirm Your Driving Record: Before applying for any position, check your driving record. If you have violations within the past 3 years, target non-delivery positions. If your record is clean, Delivery Advocate roles pay higher ($20-22/hr).

   
   

4. Emphasize Reliability and Process: Carvana values reliability, attention to detail, and following procedures. Their 150-point inspection process requires employees who can follow strict protocols. Highlight any experience demonstrating these qualities.

   
   

5. Prepare Your Narrative: Have a brief, honest explanation ready: acknowledge the offense without excuses, describe what you learned, explain how you've changed. Focus on stability since the offense. Keep it concise (30-60 seconds).

   
   

6. Document Rehabilitation: Gather evidence: completion of treatment programs, educational certificates, stable employment history, character references from employers or community members, documentation of time since offense.

   
   

7. Be Prepared for Drug Testing: The non-DOT 4-panel drug screen is mandatory and occurs after conditional offer. Address any substance issues completely before applying. Failed drug test is automatic disqualification.

   
   

8. Be Completely Honest: When asked about criminal history, be truthful. Dishonesty is an immediate disqualifier. Carvana's values include "Don't be a Richard"—honesty and integrity are core to their culture.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Inspection Centers Have Constant Hiring Needs: Carvana's 18+ Inspection Centers process thousands of vehicles. Each center employs 100-500+ workers across multiple shifts. Don't be discouraged by individual rejections—keep applying to different locations.

   
   

2. Start Entry-Level, Advance Within: Many successful careers at Carvana begin with Lot Attendant or Detailer positions. Prove reliability and work ethic for 6-12 months, then pursue advancement to higher-paying skilled or supervisory roles.

   
   

3. Run Your Own Background Check First: Know what will appear before employers see it. Request your own criminal background check and driving record. Dispute any errors or outdated information in advance.

   
   

4. Leverage the Benefits: Carvana offers 100% employer-paid medical premiums for individual coverage—exceptional for entry-level work. Express genuine interest in long-term career with benefits. This signals commitment.

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: Non-DOT 4-panel drug screen is mandatory. Address any substance issues completely before applying. No exceptions—failed test means immediate disqualification.

   
   

6. Be Flexible on Schedule: Inspection Centers operate multiple shifts. Willingness to work second shift, weekends, or overtime significantly increases your chances and can lead to higher earnings.

   
   

7. Highlight Customer Service Skills: Even for non-customer-facing Inspection Center roles, Carvana values the customer service mindset. Their slogan is "We won't sell a car we wouldn't sell to our own family." Demonstrate you share this commitment to quality.

   
   

8. Consider Location Strategy: If possible, apply to California locations (stronger fair chance protections) or cities with local Ban the Box ordinances. Research which Inspection Centers are closest to you and their hiring status.

Benefits Overview

Carvana offers a comprehensive benefits package that has been consistently praised by employees. The company ranks in the Top 15% for Perks and Benefits among companies with 10,000+ employees on Comparably. The standout benefit is 100% employer-paid medical premiums for individual coverage.

• Health Insurance: 100% employer-paid medical premiums for Employee Only coverage—nothing comes out of your paycheck. Family coverage approximately 70% paid by company. Medical, dental, and vision available. Telemedicine services included.

  
  

• 401(k) Retirement Plan: 401(k) with company match (reported as 2% match). 4 years to fully vest in company match. While not industry-leading, still provides retirement savings vehicle with employer contribution.

  
  

• Insurance: Free Life Insurance provided by company. Disability insurance available. Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options with employer contributions.

  
  

• Paid Time Off: 4 weeks PTO (includes sick time). Paid holidays. Paid parental leave (maternity and paternity). Good flexibility with PTO usage. Great for early-career employees.

  
  

• Additional Benefits: Employee discounts on carvana.com purchases. Wellness program. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) covering counseling and support services. Tuition reimbursement. Commuter benefits.

  
  

Employee Perspectives

Pros: 100% paid medical for individuals (exceptional); 4 weeks PTO; flexibility with scheduling; fun work environment; values-based culture; advancement opportunities; Forbes #1 Retailer recognition.

Cons: Family health insurance costs can be high; 401k match lower than some competitors; benefits package quality has reportedly declined over time; deductibles can be significant; training inconsistent across departments.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Carvana hire people with felonies?

   Yes, Carvana hires individuals with felony convictions, particularly for Inspection Center positions. The company must follow EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment. Best opportunities exist in Lot Attendant, Automotive Detailer, and Material Handler positions. Theft/fraud and driving convictions face higher scrutiny depending on the position.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Carvana?

   Background checks are conducted after a conditional job offer. The process includes criminal history check, identity verification, driving record check (for delivery positions), and mandatory non-DOT 4-panel drug screening. You must provide written consent. If the check reveals concerns, you receive notice and opportunity to respond before final decision.

   
   

3. How far back does the background check go at Carvana—what is the lookback period?

   Standard 7-year lookback under FCRA for most non-conviction information. Criminal convictions may be reported indefinitely but are evaluated using individualized assessment considering time elapsed, offense nature, and job relevance. Delivery roles specifically check 3 years of driving history.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Carvana?

   Theft, fraud, and forgery convictions face highest scrutiny due to handling vehicle titles and customer financial information. Driving offenses (DUI, license suspensions) are disqualifying for Delivery Advocate roles but less relevant for Inspection Center positions. Recent offenses (within 7 years) create greater barriers. Failed drug test is automatic disqualification for all positions.

   
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at Carvana for applicants with a record?

   Lot Attendant ($15-17/hr), Automotive Detailer ($17-19/hr), and Material Handler ($16-19/hr) positions at Inspection and Reconditioning Centers offer the best entry points. These high-volume roles focus on reliability and work ethic rather than extensive background requirements. They avoid the driving record requirements of Delivery Advocate positions.

   
   

6. Does Carvana drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes, Carvana requires mandatory pre-employment drug screening for all positions. The test is a non-DOT 4-panel drug screen. Failed drug test is automatic disqualification with no exceptions. Testing occurs after conditional offer. Carvana maintains a drug-free workplace policy.

   
   

7. When during the hiring process will Carvana ask about criminal history?

   Criminal history inquiry typically occurs after a conditional job offer has been extended. This allows you to interview and demonstrate your qualifications first. Some local ordinances (Phoenix, Tempe, California locations) may provide additional timing protections. If background check reveals concerns, you receive notice and opportunity to respond.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to management at Carvana if they have a felony?

   Yes, advancement is possible. Carvana's values-based culture emphasizes treating people better and providing growth opportunities. Building an excellent track record, demonstrating reliability, and maintaining clean record after hire can open advancement paths. Operations Manager and General Manager positions involve higher scrutiny, so maintaining exemplary performance is essential.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take at Carvana?

   The total hiring process typically takes 1-3 weeks from application to start date. Background checks take 5-10 business days after authorization. Drug screening results available within 2-3 days. Onboarding process takes about two weeks. Carvana hiring events at new Inspection Centers may have expedited timelines.

   
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at Carvana?

    Key strategies include:

    (1) Target Inspection Center positions rather than delivery roles;

    (2) Confirm your driving record is clean if seeking delivery work;

    (3) Prepare honest 30-60 second narrative about your background;

    (4) Document rehabilitation with certificates and references;

    (5) Emphasize reliability and attention to detail;

    (6) Pass the drug test—absolutely mandatory;

    (7) Be flexible on schedule and location;

    (8) Apply to multiple Inspection Centers;

    (9) Research local fair chance protections;

    (10) Highlight commitment to Carvana's values of treating people better.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If Carvana doesn't work out, consider these employers known for fair chance hiring practices in automotive, retail, and related industries:

Conclusion

Carvana offers genuine opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in Inspection Center positions. As a Fortune 500 company recognized as the #1 Retailer to Work For by Forbes, Carvana emphasizes a values-based culture of treating people better. The company's 18+ Inspection and Reconditioning Centers create high-volume hiring opportunities for Lot Attendants, Automotive Detailers, and Material Handlers where reliability and work ethic matter more than background.

The standout benefit is 100% employer-paid medical premiums for individual coverage—exceptional for entry-level positions and rare in any industry. Combined with 4 weeks PTO, 401(k) with match, and advancement opportunities, Carvana provides a pathway to stable, benefited employment. The company's recent turnaround from financial challenges to record earnings demonstrates organizational stability.

Key Success Factors: Target Inspection Center positions; avoid delivery roles if driving record concerns exist; prepare honest narrative about background; document rehabilitation; pass mandatory drug test; emphasize reliability and attention to detail; be flexible on schedule; apply to multiple locations.

Biggest Barriers: Theft/fraud/forgery convictions (vehicle title and financial handling); failed drug test (zero tolerance); driving offenses for delivery positions (clean 3-year record required); dishonesty during application; inability to meet physical requirements.

For Second Chance applicants willing to start in entry-level Inspection Center positions and prove their reliability, Carvana offers a legitimate pathway to stable employment with excellent health benefits and advancement opportunities. The company's "Don't be a Richard" culture values honest, hardworking people who share their commitment to quality.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Hiring policies vary by position, location, and individual circumstances. While we strive for accuracy using publicly available sources including company websites, job postings, employee reviews (Glassdoor, Indeed, Comparably), and salary databases (PayScale, ZipRecruiter), employment information and company policies may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with Carvana.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment. Background check laws, expungement procedures, and fair chance hiring requirements vary by state and should be confirmed with legal professionals. Consult with an employment attorney or legal aid organization for specific legal advice about your situation. Carvana has experienced significant workforce changes in recent years.

Apply Now: https://www.carvana.com/careers