Quick Answer

Yes, O’Reilly Auto Parts hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis.

With 6,000+ auto parts stores across the United States, starting wages of $13–$18/ hour, automotive retail and technical expertise, professional parts services, ASE certification support, and advancement opportunities to store manager earning $29–$43/ hour, O’Reilly offers accessible automotive retail employment for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration. The company provides opportunities similar to AutoZone.

About O’Reilly Auto Parts

O’Reilly Auto Parts, founded in 1957, operates over 6,000 stores across 47 states, making it the second-largest automotive aftermarket retailer in the U.S. (after AutoZone). The company employs more than 80,000 people and serves both professional repair shops and do-it-yourself customers.

For job seekers with criminal records, O’Reilly offers nearly identical advantages to AutoZone:

(1) 6,000+ stores providing broad access,

(2) technical automotive training,

(3) ASE certification support,

(4) case-by-case hiring evaluations, and

(5) clear advancement pathways to management.

O’Reilly Hiring Policy

O’Reilly reviews each applicant individually and values honesty and job readiness.

Approach:

• Case-by-case evaluation

• Store manager discretion

• Automotive interest valued

• Rehabilitation considered

• Prior experience helpful but not required

What O’Reilly Considers:

• Nature and date of conviction

• Relevance to the position

• Work history and reliability

• Willingness to learn automotive systems

• Driving record (for delivery roles)

Available Jobs

Retail Team Member

($13–$18/ hour)

Assists customers, provides parts information, and supports sales operations. Training provided for entry-level applicants.

Delivery Specialist

($14–$18/ hour)

Delivers auto parts to professional shops and garages. Requires a valid driver’s license and clean driving record.

Parts Specialist

($14–$19/ hour)

Provides advanced automotive support for professional customers; often requires product knowledge or ASE coursework.

Assistant Store Manager

($20–$28/ hour)

Supervises store operations, supports staff, and handles inventory and customer service tasks.

Store Manager

($29–$43/ hour)

Manages all store functions including staffing, operations, and performance.

Career Path: Retail Team Member → Parts Specialist → Assistant Manager → Store Manager

O’Reilly also supports ASE certification and ongoing automotive education for motivated employees.

Background Check

• 7-year criminal history review

• Case-by-case evaluation based on conviction type

• Driving record required for delivery roles

• Drug testing may vary by location

Application Tips

1. Apply to multiple stores. Submit applications to 10–15 O’Reilly locations to increase your chances.

   
   

2. Show automotive interest. Express willingness to learn about parts and vehicle systems.

   
   

3. Highlight reliability. Punctuality and dependability are highly valued.

   
   

4. Be honest about your background. Managers appreciate transparency.

   
   

5. Mention ASE certification goals. Shows career commitment.

   
   

6. Visit in person. Introduce yourself to store managers during slower hours.

   
   

7. Apply to similar companies. AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and NAPA offer comparable opportunities.

   
   

8. Stay open to evenings/weekends. Flexible availability helps you get hired faster.

   
   

9. Keep learning automotive basics. Free online tutorials can boost your application.

   
   

10. Follow up after one week. A polite check-in can show initiative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get hired at O’Reilly with a felony?

Yes, O’Reilly hires on a case-by-case basis depending on the conviction type, time elapsed, and store manager discretion.

Do I need automotive experience?

No, O’Reilly provides training. Interest and reliability matter more than experience.

What’s the most accessible position?

The Retail Team Member role, which includes training and flexible scheduling.

Does O’Reilly drug test?

Policies vary by store and position.

Can I work while on probation or parole?

Yes, as long as your probation officer and store management approve.

What’s the advancement potential?

Strong—many store managers started as retail associates.

O’Reilly vs AutoZone—who’s more felon-friendly?

Both are very similar in hiring accessibility and pay range.

Does O’Reilly check driving history?

Yes, if you apply for delivery roles.

Can I move up to management?

Yes, O’Reilly promotes from within and provides leadership development.

How can I improve my chances?

Apply broadly, show professionalism, and express enthusiasm for learning automotive systems.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• AutoZone – 7,000+ stores; similar structure and pay; case-by-case hiring.

• Advance Auto Parts – 4,500+ stores; retail and delivery jobs available.

• NAPA Auto Parts – 6,000+ locations; strong parts network; similar entry-level hiring.

• Pep Boys – 1,000+ service centers; retail and technician roles.

• O’Reilly competitors (local) – Many regional chains hire through local discretion.

Final Thoughts

O’Reilly Auto Parts provides accessible employment opportunities for individuals rebuilding their careers after incarceration. With 6,000+ stores, starting pay of $13–$18/ hour, training programs, and advancement to store manager roles ($29–$43/ hour), O’Reilly offers one of the most inclusive paths in the automotive retail industry.

If you’re ready to start, visit OReillyAuto.com/careers to find open positions near you.