Quick Answer

Yes, Honda hires individuals with felony convictions for certain positions. As a major automotive manufacturer with approximately 30,000 U.S. associates operating 8 manufacturing plants across Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, and Ohio, Honda follows fair chance hiring principles. Employment decisions require passing a background check and drug screening.

The law prohibits blanket policies excluding all felons. Honda must conduct an individualized assessment to determine if the conviction is job-related and consistent with business necessity.

The greatest barriers involve violence or weapons offenses (workplace safety), theft, fraud, or embezzlement (access to high-value inventory), and recent drug offenses (drug-free workplace policy). Recent offenses within 7-10 years face highest scrutiny.

Entry-level production positions—Assembly Line Worker, Material Handler, Production Associate—offer the best opportunities, as these roles have consistent hiring needs and focus on reliability and safety.

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 the company is not allowed to automatically exclude you solely for being a felon. EEOC guidelines require individualized assessment.

  
  

• Job-Related Assessment: Must be prepared for the company to evaluate whether your felony is related to the job duties using the Green Factors (nature of crime, time elapsed, nature of job).

  
  

• Physical Requirements: Must be able to stand for extended periods (8-10 hours), perform repetitive motions, lift up to 35-50 pounds, and work in varying temperature conditions typical of automotive manufacturing.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must pass a mandatory pre-employment drug test. Honda maintains a strict drug-free workplace policy. Testing is typically a urine screening, with some locations using hair follicle testing.

  
  

• Honesty is Paramount: Must be completely honest about your criminal record when asked (after conditional offer). Lying is an automatic 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.

  
  

• Flexible Availability: Must be willing to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and overtime as required by production schedules.

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the legal landscape for criminal records in employment is essential for Second Chance applicants. Honda operates manufacturing plants in Ohio, Indiana, Alabama, and Georgia, each with different state and local fair chance hiring laws. Ohio, where Honda's largest manufacturing operations are located including the flagship Marysville Auto Plant, has a statewide Ban the Box law for public employers only. However, cities like Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Akron, Canton, and Dayton have additional local ordinances affecting private employers. Honda must comply with federal EEOC guidelines nationwide, ensuring individualized assessment of each applicant's criminal history.

EEOC Guidelines

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission advises employers not to automatically refuse to consider an applicant because of a criminal record. Employers must conduct an individualized assessment considering 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.

FCRA Requirements

If a third party conducts the background check and a job offer is denied based on the report, Honda 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 after review.

State-Specific Considerations

Ohio has limited fair chance protections. The Ohio Fair Hiring Act (2016) prohibits public-sector employers from asking about criminal history until after a conditional job offer, but this does not apply to private employers like Honda. However, cities including Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Akron, Canton, and Dayton have local Ban the Box ordinances. Ohio law allows certain records to be sealed or expunged, and employers cannot ask about sealed records. Indiana and Alabama have no statewide Ban the Box laws for private employers, though EEOC guidelines still apply.

Automotive Manufacturing-Specific Considerations

The automotive manufacturing industry involves heavy machinery operation, high-value inventory, and strict safety protocols. There are no federal regulations specifically barring felons from automotive manufacturing positions. However, Honda maintains a strict drug-free workplace policy due to the safety-sensitive nature of production work. Positions involving driving company vehicles may require a clean motor vehicle record. Access to certain areas may be restricted based on background check results, but entry-level production positions typically have fewer barriers than positions involving vehicle transport or financial responsibilities.

Company Overview

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. is a Japanese multinational founded in 1948 by Soichiro Honda, known globally for manufacturing automobiles, motorcycles, and power equipment. The company is headquartered in Tokyo, with U.S. operations managed through American Honda Motor Co., Inc. based in Torrance, California. Honda began U.S. manufacturing in 1979 in Marysville, Ohio, becoming the first Japanese automaker to build vehicles in America. Today, Honda operates 8 major manufacturing plants in the U.S., working with over 750 suppliers. In 2024, 99.6% of Honda and Acura vehicles sold in the U.S. were produced in North America. The company has invested over $1 billion to prepare U.S. plants for electric vehicle production.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1948 (Tokyo); U.S. manufacturing since 1979

• U.S. Headquarters: Torrance, California

• U.S. Employees: Approximately 30,000 associates

• U.S. Plants: 8 plants in Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Ohio

• Global Revenue: $143 billion (FY 2024)

• Stock: NYSE: HMC

• Major Brands: Honda, Acura (Civic, Accord, CR-V, Pilot)

Hiring Policy Analysis

Honda follows fair chance hiring principles aligned with EEOC guidelines, conducting individualized assessments as required by federal law. The company does not have a publicly stated blanket exclusion policy for individuals with criminal records, though background checks and drug screens are mandatory for all positions. Background checks are conducted after a conditional job offer, giving applicants the opportunity to demonstrate their qualifications before their record is reviewed. The hiring process typically includes an online application, phone screening, in-person interview, conditional offer, background check and drug test, and final hiring decision. The average hiring timeline at Honda of America Manufacturing is approximately 27 days from application to hire.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by access to high-value inventory, safety-sensitive responsibilities, and customer interaction requirements.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Glassdoor, Indeed, PayScale, and company job postings. Actual compensation varies by location, shift, experience, and specific plant.

Career Path Examples

Honda emphasizes internal advancement and offers training programs for career development. Many leadership positions are filled through internal promotion.

Production Track: Assembly Line Worker ($17-20/hr) → Production Associate ($18-23/hr) → Team Lead ($25-30/hr) → Production Supervisor ($60K-75K/yr).

Advancement requires demonstrated reliability, safety record, and leadership skills.

Skilled Trades Track: Machine Operator ($20-25/hr) → Maintenance Technician ($28-35/hr) → Equipment Service Technician ($32-36/hr) → Maintenance Supervisor ($70K-90K/yr). Technical certifications and training required.

Materials/Logistics Track: Material Handler ($22-25/hr) → Forklift Operator ($22-26/hr) → Logistics Coordinator ($50K-60K/yr) → Materials Manager ($75K-95K/yr). Forklift certification and inventory management experience helpful.

Background Check Process

Understanding Honda's background check process helps you prepare mentally and practically for what to expect. The company conducts background checks after extending a conditional job offer, which means you'll have the opportunity to demonstrate your qualifications during the interview before your record is reviewed.

• What They Check: Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors) at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification through SSN trace and address history; employment history verification; education verification for positions requiring specific credentials; drug screening (mandatory for all positions); physical examination for production roles.

  
  

• Lookback Period: Standard 7-year criminal lookback for most positions under FCRA guidelines. Employment verification typically extends 5-10 years. Serious violent felonies and sex offenses may be reported indefinitely. Convictions can be reported without time limit, but Ohio law protects sealed and expunged records from disclosure.

  
  

• Timeline: The hiring process averages approximately 27 days from application to hire at Honda of America Manufacturing based on employee reports. Background checks typically take 1-2 weeks to complete after conditional offer. Drug test results are usually available within 2-5 days.

  
  

• Process Flow: Application submitted → Phone screening → In-person interview(s) → Conditional offer extended → Background check and drug test authorization signed → Background check conducted → Drug test administered → Physical examination (production roles) → Results reviewed using individualized assessment → Final hiring decision made → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Start date confirmed → Orientation.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Recent violent felonies (assault, battery, weapons offenses) within 7 years due to workplace safety; theft, embezzlement, or fraud convictions due to inventory access; drug manufacturing or trafficking convictions; sex offenses; recent DUI/DWI for positions involving driving; any conviction directly related to job duties; failed drug test or refusal to test; dishonesty during the application or interview process.

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent property crimes older than 7 years; non-recent drug possession charges; traffic violations not involving DUI; offenses unrelated to job duties; misdemeanors older than 5 years. All subject to individualized assessment considering rehabilitation evidence, time elapsed, and job relevance.

Your Rights as Applicant

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

  
  

• Pre-Adverse Action Notice: Before a final decision, you must receive notice with a copy of the report and a summary of your rights. Reasonable time to respond is required.

  
  

• EEOC Protection: You have the right to an individualized assessment. Blanket exclusions based solely on criminal record are prohibited.

  
  

• Sealed Records: In Ohio, employers cannot ask about sealed, expunged, or pardoned records. You may respond to questions as if these records never existed.

  
  

• Dispute Rights: You can dispute inaccurate information on background reports with the reporting agency. Check your own records beforehand.

Application Strategy

1. Target Entry-Level Production Positions: Focus on Assembly Line Worker, Material Handler, and Production Associate positions which have the lowest barriers and highest volume hiring needs. These roles offer the best opportunity to get your foot in the door. Avoid Maintenance Technician or Equipment Service positions initially if your record is recent or includes relevant offenses.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit your application through careers.honda.com. Honda posts positions on Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Check the careers page regularly as production positions are posted frequently. Consider applying to multiple plant locations in Ohio, Indiana, Alabama, and Georgia to maximize opportunities.

   
   

3. Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your work ethic, reliability, and commitment to safety. Research Honda's products, manufacturing philosophy, and company values. Emphasize teamwork, attention to detail, and ability to follow procedures.

   
   

4. Be Completely Honest: Never lie about your criminal history. Dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier and can result in termination even after hire if discovered later. Wait until asked or until the appropriate stage (after conditional offer) to discuss your record.

   
   

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

   
   

6. Document Rehabilitation: Gather evidence of positive changes since your conviction: completion of treatment programs, educational certificates, vocational training, stable housing, employment history, community involvement, and references from employers, probation officers, or community members.

   
   

7. Check Expungement Eligibility: Research whether your offense qualifies for sealing or expungement under Ohio Revised Code § 2953.32. Ohio allows sealing of many felony and misdemeanor records after waiting periods. Contact Ohio Legal Help or a legal aid organization for assistance. Sealed records cannot be reported on background checks.

   
   

8. Follow Up Professionally: After applying, follow up with HR if you don't hear back within 2-3 weeks. If you receive a pre-adverse action notice, respond promptly with rehabilitation documentation. Persistence and professionalism demonstrate the qualities Honda values.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Automotive Manufacturing Has Constant Hiring Needs: The automotive industry experiences consistent turnover in production positions. Honda operates multiple shifts across 8 U.S. plants. Don't be discouraged by individual rejections—keep applying to different locations and positions.

   
   

2. Start Entry-Level, Advance Within: Many successful careers at Honda begin on the assembly line. Prove reliability by showing up on time, following safety protocols, and maintaining quality standards. Honda offers internal training programs for advancement into higher-paying skilled trades and leadership positions.

   
   

3. Run Your Own Background Check First: Know what will appear before the employer sees it. Order your own criminal background check from a consumer reporting agency. Dispute any errors or outdated information in advance. Verify your records in all states where you've lived.

   
   

4. Manufacturing-Specific Preparation: Automotive manufacturing environments require standing for long periods, repetitive motions, and working around heavy machinery. Demonstrate understanding of workplace safety, quality control, and teamwork. Consider obtaining forklift certification or other relevant credentials to stand out.

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: If you have substance issues, address them completely before applying. Honda requires mandatory pre-employment drug screening for all positions. Testing is typically urine-based with results available quickly. Note that marijuana remains disqualifying regardless of state legalization.

   
   

6. Highlight Stability and Reliability: Emphasize stable housing, reliable transportation, and any consistent work history—even informal work shows you can be counted on. Manufacturing employers especially value attendance, punctuality, and dependability.

   
   

7. Network and Use Employee Referrals: Current Honda employees can provide referrals. Employee referrals often receive priority consideration. Network through LinkedIn or local workforce development programs to connect with current employees.

   
   

8. Be Flexible on Shifts: Willingness to work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and overtime increases your chances significantly. Production runs 24/7 at many Honda plants. Many positions offer shift premiums for second and third shifts.

Benefits Overview

Honda offers a comprehensive benefits package. Benefits eligibility typically begins on the first day for full-time associates.

• Compensation: Competitive wages $17-36/hr depending on position. Shift premiums. Overtime at time-and-a-half. Regional bonus programs. Weekly pay.

  
  

• 401(k) and Retirement: 401(k) with 100% company match on first 6% of salary. Additional service contributions. Employee stock purchase plan.

  
  

• Health Benefits: Medical (HMO/PPO through BCBS), HSA option, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage. Spring Health mental wellness program.

  
  

• Time Off: Paid vacation (10+ days), holidays, summer and Christmas shutdowns. Parental leave, bereavement, jury duty.

  
  

• Additional Benefits: Tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, lifestyle account ($1,000/yr), adoption assistance, childcare reimbursement, pet insurance, vehicle discounts, EAP.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Pros: Excellent 401(k) match; competitive pay; comprehensive health insurance; job stability; shutdown periods.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Cons: Rotating shifts challenging for work-life balance; mandatory overtime; physically demanding work.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Honda hire people with felonies?

   Yes, Honda hires individuals with felony convictions. The company follows EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment. Best opportunities exist in entry-level production roles such as Assembly Line Worker, Material Handler, and Production Associate. Factors improving chances include older convictions (7+ years), offenses unrelated to job duties, demonstrated rehabilitation, and strong work history. Violent crimes, theft, and recent drug convictions face higher scrutiny.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Honda?

   Honda conducts background checks after extending a conditional job offer. The process includes criminal history searches at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification; employment verification; and mandatory drug screening. Written consent is required. Results typically take 1-2 weeks. If issues arise, you'll receive a pre-adverse action notice with opportunity to respond.

   
   

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

   Honda typically uses a 7-year criminal lookback period consistent with FCRA guidelines. Serious violent felonies and sex offenses may be considered regardless of age. Employment verification extends 5-10 years. In Ohio, sealed and expunged records cannot be reported. Positions paying $75,000+ annually may have extended lookback periods.

   
   

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

   Highest barriers: violent felonies (assault, weapons offenses) due to workplace safety; theft, fraud, embezzlement due to inventory access; drug trafficking; sex offenses; recent DUI for driving positions. Lower barriers: non-violent property crimes older than 7 years; non-recent drug possession; offenses unrelated to manufacturing work. Each case receives individualized assessment.

   
   

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

   Best opportunities: Assembly Line Worker ($17-20/hr) with high-volume hiring; Material Handler ($22-25/hr) for parts distribution; Production Associate ($18-23/hr) for general production. These positions have consistent openings, focus on reliability, and offer advancement paths. Apply to multiple plant locations (OH, IN, AL, GA) to maximize opportunities.

   
   

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

   Yes, Honda requires mandatory pre-employment drug testing for all positions. Testing is typically a urine screen at the company's on-site medical unit. Some locations may use hair follicle testing. Random testing occurs during employment. Honda maintains strict drug-free workplace policy—marijuana remains disqualifying regardless of state legalization. Failing or refusing a test is an automatic disqualifier.

   
   

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

   Honda conducts background checks after extending a conditional job offer, meaning criminal history is typically not discussed until after interviews. You'll demonstrate qualifications before your record is reviewed. Be prepared to discuss your record honestly when asked, but don't volunteer information before the appropriate stage.

   
   

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

   Yes, advancement to management is possible, though higher-level positions receive increased scrutiny. Honda emphasizes internal promotion and many supervisors started in entry-level production roles. Key factors: consistent performance, leadership abilities, internal training completion, time elapsed since conviction, and nature of offense relative to management responsibilities.

   
   

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

   The complete hiring process averages approximately 27 days from application to hire. This includes: application review (1-2 weeks), phone screening, in-person interview, conditional offer, background check (1-2 weeks), drug test (results in 2-5 days), and physical examination. Follow up professionally if you don't hear back within 2-3 weeks.

   
   

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

    Key strategies:

    (1) Target entry-level production positions;

    (2) Apply to multiple plant locations;

    (3) Be completely honest about your record;

    (4) Prepare a concise rehabilitation narrative;

    (5) Document rehabilitation with certificates and references;

    (6) Pass the drug test;

    (7) Obtain relevant certifications;

    (8) Accept any shift including nights and weekends;

    (9) Check expungement eligibility;

    (10) Run your own background check first.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

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

Conclusion

Honda offers genuine opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in entry-level production positions at its 8 U.S. manufacturing plants. As one of the largest automotive manufacturers in America with approximately 30,000 U.S. associates, the company provides a realistic pathway to stable employment with competitive wages ($17-36/hr) and comprehensive benefits including a 6% 401(k) match from day one. Honda follows EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment and conducts background checks after conditional offers.

The work is physically demanding with rotating shifts and mandatory overtime during peak production periods. However, compensation is competitive for manufacturing with overtime opportunities and shift premiums. The benefits package includes medical insurance, retirement contributions, tuition reimbursement, and paid time off including summer and Christmas shutdown periods. Career advancement is emphasized—many supervisors and managers started on the assembly line and worked their way up through internal training programs.

Key Success Factors: Target entry-level production roles such as Assembly Line Worker or Material Handler; be completely honest about your record when asked; document rehabilitation through certificates, references, and stable housing; pass the mandatory drug test; demonstrate reliability and flexibility on shifts; apply to multiple plant locations in Ohio, Indiana, Alabama, and Georgia; follow up professionally.

Biggest Barriers: Recent violent felonies within 7 years due to workplace safety concerns; theft, fraud, or embezzlement convictions affecting inventory access; failed drug tests or refusal to test; dishonesty during the application process; offenses directly related to manufacturing or equipment operation.

Your past does not have to define your future. Honda's fair chance hiring practices and constant need for production workers mean that dedicated individuals with records can find stable employment and build meaningful careers. Prepare thoroughly, present yourself professionally, and take advantage of the opportunities available at one of America's leading automotive manufacturers.

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), and salary databases (PayScale, ZipRecruiter), employment information and company policies may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with Honda.

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.

Apply Now: https://careers.honda.com