Quick Answer

Yes, Rite Aid hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis.

With over 2,400 pharmacy and retail locations (primarily on the West Coast and in the Northeast after recent downsizing), starting wages of $13–$17/ hour, retail and pharmacy positions, and advancement opportunities, Rite Aid offers accessible healthcare retail employment for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

About Rite Aid

Rite Aid operates more than 2,400 drugstores across the United States, primarily concentrated in California, Pennsylvania, New York, and several Northeastern states.

The company employs about 45,000 people. Once one of the nation’s largest drugstore chains (previously over 4,500 locations), Rite Aid has restructured but continues to operate in its core regions.

For job seekers with criminal records, Rite Aid offers similar accessibility to CVS and Walgreens, though with a smaller footprint:

1. 2,400+ locations in select markets

2. Case-by-case evaluation

3. Pharmacy tech positions subject to state licensing

4. Retail roles widely available

5. Regional concentration in key markets

Rite Aid Hiring Policy

Rite Aid evaluates applicants case by case.

Approach:

• Case-by-case evaluation

• Similar to CVS/Walgreens accessibility

• State pharmacy board regulations apply to pharmacy techs

• Smaller footprint but still accessible

• Reports of successful hires with records

What Rite Aid Considers:

• Nature of conviction

• Time since conviction

• Relevance to position

• State licensing (for pharmacy roles)

• Rehabilitation and professional conduct

Available Jobs

Store Associate

($13–$17/ hour)

Cashiering, stocking, and customer service. Most accessible entry-level position.

Shift Supervisor

($15–$19/ hour)

Supervises store shifts and supports daily operations.

Pharmacy Technician

($15–$21/ hour)

Assists pharmacists in filling prescriptions (subject to state pharmacy board regulations).

Store Manager

($45,000–$70,000/ year → $22–$34/ hour equivalent)

Oversees store operations, staffing, and performance.

Career Path: Store Associate ($13–$17/ hour) → Shift Supervisor ($15–$19/ hour) → Store Manager ($45k–$70k/ year)

Background Check

• 7-year lookback for retail positions• State board verification for pharmacy techs• Case-by-case evaluation• Drug testing required for most roles

Application Tips

1. Apply in multiple stores. Target 5–10 Rite Aid locations in your area for better odds.

   
   

2. Focus on retail roles first. Store Associate positions are the most accessible starting point.

   
   

3. Research pharmacy technician requirements. Some states restrict licensing for certain convictions.

   
   

4. Show reliability and availability. Emphasize flexible hours—especially evenings and weekends.

   
   

5. Apply to similar chains. CVS and Walgreens have broader reach; applying to all three increases chances.

   
   

6. Highlight customer service skills. Retail experience or people skills are valuable assets.

   
   

7. Visit in person. Introduce yourself to the store manager outside of peak hours for a positive impression.

   
   

8. Prepare references. Include professional or community references who can vouch for your reliability.

   
   

9. Emphasize rehabilitation. Mention certificates, training, or community work that show progress.

   
   

10. Follow up politely. Check back 5–7 days after applying to express continued interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Rite Aid hire people with felonies?

Yes. Rite Aid evaluates each applicant on a case-by-case basis.

Where are most Rite Aid stores located?

Primarily in California, Pennsylvania, New York, and parts of the Northeast.

What is the most accessible position?

Store Associate roles ($13–$17/ hour) are open to most applicants and require minimal experience.

Can I become a pharmacy technician with a felony?

Possibly. It depends on your state’s pharmacy board regulations and conviction type.

Does Rite Aid conduct background checks?

Yes. Background checks typically review the past seven years.

Does Rite Aid drug test?

Yes, pre-employment drug testing is required for most roles.

How does Rite Aid compare to CVS and Walgreens?

Very similar hiring policies, but Rite Aid has fewer locations (2,400 vs. 9,000+ for CVS/Walgreens).

Can I work while on probation or parole?

Yes, many locations allow this as long as it doesn’t conflict with supervision conditions.

Does Rite Aid offer training?

Yes. Entry-level associates receive on-the-job retail training, and pharmacy techs receive structured training once licensed.

What’s the best way to apply?

Online via the careers portal, then follow up in person with the store manager for a stronger impression.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• CVS Health – 9,000+ stores; retail and pharmacy positions; case-by-case hiring.

• Walgreens – 9,000+ stores; pharmacy and retail roles; similar accessibility.

• Local independent pharmacies – Smaller operations often with flexible hiring discretion.

Final Thoughts

Rite Aid offers accessible healthcare retail employment with case-by-case evaluations, 2,400+ stores in select markets, starting pay of $13–$17/ hour, and clear career growth opportunities. While smaller than CVS or Walgreens, it remains a viable path for applicants rebuilding their careers after incarceration.

Apply directly at RiteAid.com/careers.