Quick Answer

Yes, Pep Boys hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis.

With over 900 automotive service and tire centers across the United States, starting wages of ($13–$18/ hour) for parts sales and ($15–$22/ hour) for automotive technicians, dual career paths in sales and automotive service, ASE certification opportunities, and advancement into management, Pep Boys offers accessible automotive employment for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

About Pep Boys

Pep Boys operates more than 900 service and tire centers nationwide, uniquely combining retail auto parts sales with full-service automotive repair. Founded in 1921, the company employs around 20,000 people and is known for its “Manny, Moe & Jack” brand identity.

For job seekers with criminal records, Pep Boys offers several advantages:

• Two distinct paths — retail sales or hands-on technician roles

• Training and ASE certification support for long-term automotive careers

• Locations across the U.S. with diverse hiring needs

• Case-by-case evaluation rather than automatic disqualification

Hiring Policy

Pep Boys uses a case-by-case hiring approach, allowing store and service managers to make individualized decisions.

Approach:

• Case-by-case review of applicants

• Dual path opportunities (sales or technical)

• Focus on skills, reliability, and interest in automotive work

• Reports of successful hires from people with records

What They Consider:

• Nature and age of conviction

• Relevance to retail or automotive service work

• Work history or transferable skills

• Customer interaction ability

• Demonstrated rehabilitation

Available Jobs

Sales Associate

($13–$18/ hour)

Provides customer service, sells parts, and supports store operations. Accessible entry-level retail position.

Service Advisor

($14–$19/ hour + commission)

Assists customers, writes service orders, and coordinates repairs.

Entry-Level/Lube Technician

($14–$18/ hour)

Performs oil changes, tire rotations, and basic maintenance. Good technical starting point.

Automotive Technician

($17–$28/ hour)

Handles diagnostics, repairs, and advanced automotive maintenance. Requires experience or certification.

Store Manager

($50,000–$75,000 per year → $24–$36/ hour)

Oversees retail and service operations, manages staff, and ensures profitability.

Career Paths:

• Retail Track: Sales Associate → Service Advisor → Store Manager

• Technical Track: Lube Tech → Technician → Master Technician (up to $35/ hour)

Background Check

• Typically, a 7-year criminal history review

• Evaluated individually depending on role

• Driving record checked for technical or delivery positions

• Drug testing required for service center roles

Application Tips

1. Choose your career path. Decide between retail sales or automotive technician roles before applying.

   
   

2. Apply to 5–10 locations. Each store may have its own hiring flexibility.

   
   

3. Show genuine automotive interest. Mention any experience or hobby related to vehicles.

   
   

4. Highlight reliability and learning mindset. Pep Boys values consistent workers willing to train.

   
   

5. If technical, express ASE interest. “I want to become a certified automotive technician.”

   
   

6. Prepare for a drug test. Especially if applying to technician or lube tech roles.

   
   

7. Visit stores in person. Meeting the manager can help your application stand out.

   
   

8. Apply to similar employers. Try Jiffy Lube or Valvoline for similar technical entry roles.

   
   

9. Dress neatly for interviews. Pep Boys hires for customer-facing positions.

   
   

10. Follow up after a week. Shows initiative and interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Pep Boys automatically reject me?

No. They evaluate each applicant individually.

What’s the difference between sales and technician roles?

Sales roles focus on customer service and retail; technician roles focus on hands-on automotive work.

Do I need previous automotive experience?

Not for Sales Associate or Lube Tech roles—training is provided.

What’s the easiest position to start with?

Sales Associate (retail) or Lube Technician (entry-level technical) are most accessible.

Can I earn ASE certification through Pep Boys?

Yes. Pep Boys supports ASE certification, helping technicians increase pay and skills.

Can I work while on probation or parole?

Yes, if approved by management and your supervising officer.

Does Pep Boys drug test?

Yes, especially for automotive service and technician roles.

How long is the hiring process?

Usually one to three weeks, depending on background check timing.

Is Pep Boys a good place for long-term growth?

Yes, many employees advance into management or master technician positions.

What other companies should I apply to?

Apply to quick-lube and automotive service chains for additional opportunities.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Jiffy Lube – Quick oil-change chain; accessible entry-level lube tech roles.

• Valvoline Instant Oil Change – Nationwide quick-lube service; hires case-by-case.

• Take 5 Oil Change – 700+ fast-lube centers; entry-level friendly.

• Firestone Complete Auto Care – Tire and service centers; hands-on technician roles.

• AutoZone – Major parts retailer; flexible hiring for sales roles.

• O’Reilly Auto Parts – 6,000+ stores; entry-level counter positions.

• Advance Auto Parts – 4,500+ stores; training-focused retail opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Pep Boys provides accessible employment in both retail and technical automotive fields. With over 900 locations, pay starting at ($13–$18/ hour) for retail and ($15–$28/ hour) for technicians, case-by-case hiring, and advancement paths toward ASE certification or management, it offers solid options for people rebuilding careers after incarceration.

For more information or to apply, visit PepBoys.com/careers.