Quick Answer

Yes, USPS (United States Postal Service) hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. As a federal agency, it follows federal suitability standards that evaluate each applicant individually. With starting pay of $19–$23/ hour, federal benefits, and union representation (NALC, APWU, NPMHU), USPS offers stable government careers for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration. However, certain convictions—such as mail theft or crimes against the United States—are permanently disqualifying.

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About USPS

3. USPS Hiring Policy

4. Available Jobs

5. Background Check

6. Application Tips

7. Frequently Asked Questions

8. Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

9. Final Thoughts

About USPS

Founded in 1775, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is an independent federal agency employing over 500,000 workers across all U.S. states and territories. It operates post offices, sorting centers, and delivery networks in nearly every community.

For job seekers with felony records, USPS provides unique benefits:

1. Federal employment with long-term stability and benefits.

2. Union representation ensuring fair treatment and job security.

3. Clear career progression through civil service systems.

4. Living wages starting at $19–$23/ hour.

5. Retirement and health benefits unmatched in the public sector.

However, USPS must follow federal hiring laws, which restrict certain types of convictions more strictly than private companies.

USPS Hiring Policy

USPS Approach

• Federal suitability determination under OPM guidelines

• Case-by-case evaluation within federal regulations

• Some offenses permanently disqualifying (mail theft, terrorism, crimes against the U.S.)

• Union protections once employed

Federal Restrictions

• Mail theft or postal crimes: Permanently disqualifying

• Crimes against the United States: Disqualifying

• Terrorism-related offenses: Disqualifying

• Most other felonies: Case-by-case

What USPS Considers

• Nature and type of conviction

• Time elapsed since conviction (5–7 years favorable)

• Relevance to postal duties

• Evidence of rehabilitation and good conduct

• Suitability for federal employment

Available Jobs

City Carrier Assistant (CCA)

($19–$21/ hour)

Delivers mail in city areas. Entry-level path to a career city carrier position.

Rural Carrier Associate (RCA)

($19–$22/ hour)

Delivers mail in rural areas; flexible hours and potential for full-time promotion.

Mail Processing Clerk

($20–$23/ hour)

Sorts and organizes mail in postal processing centers.

Mail Handler

($19–$22/ hour)

Moves and loads mail containers; physical warehouse-style work.

Postal Support Employee (PSE)

($19–$22/ hour)

Supports retail and mail processing functions; customer-facing role.

Career City Letter Carrier

($24–$30/ hour)

Full-time postal carrier position with federal benefits and retirement.

Maintenance Mechanic

($25–$32/ hour)

Performs facility and equipment maintenance in postal buildings.

Postal Inspector

($30–$40/ hour)

Federal law enforcement role; requires a clean record and investigative skills.

Career Path: CCA or Mail Handler → Career Carrier → Supervisor → Management

Background Check

• FBI fingerprint check (federal requirement)

• 7–10 year criminal history review

• Federal suitability determination process

• Mail theft or postal crimes = permanent disqualification

• Drug testing required for all applicants

Application Tips

1. Pass the Postal Exam. Complete USPS Exam 474, required for most entry positions.

   
   

2. Apply for Mail Handler first. It’s the most accessible entry-level role for those with records.

   
   

3. Be transparent. Honesty about your background helps ensure fair evaluation.

   
   

4. Show reliability. Emphasize steady attendance and punctuality.

   
   

5. Highlight physical ability. Most roles require standing, lifting, and walking.

   
   

6. Apply to multiple facilities. Increases your chances of placement.

   
   

7. Consider rural positions. Rural Carrier Associate jobs often have fewer applicants.

   
   

8. Demonstrate rehabilitation. Share volunteer or training experience since conviction.

   
   

9. Be patient. Federal hiring processes can take weeks or months.

   
   

10. Study the USPS mission. Show alignment with public service and reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does USPS hire people with felonies?

Yes, most felonies are considered case-by-case, except mail theft and federal crimes.

What convictions are permanently disqualifying?

Mail theft, postal crimes, terrorism-related offenses, and crimes against the United States.

How long does it take to become a career carrier?

Usually 2–3 years, depending on seniority and performance.

Does USPS pay well?

Yes, starting pay is $19–$23/ hour, with career carriers earning $50,000–$65,000 annually.

Are USPS jobs unionized?

Yes. Unions include NALC, APWU, NPMHU, and NRLCA depending on the job.

Can I work at USPS with a drug-related conviction?

Yes, case-by-case, especially if sufficient time and rehabilitation have passed.

Do USPS employees get benefits?

Yes, including federal health insurance, paid leave, and a retirement pension.

What exam do I need to take?

Most positions require Postal Exam 474, with additional tests for specialized roles.

Does USPS drug test?

Yes, drug screening is part of the hiring process.

How can I improve my chances?

Apply for multiple locations, pass the exam, and demonstrate reliability.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• UPS – Major logistics carrier; unionized and second-chance friendly.

• FedEx – Private shipping company; hires case-by-case; $17–$22/ hour average.

• Amazon Delivery – Accessible warehouse and driver positions across the U.S.

• DHL – International courier with domestic U.S. hubs; evaluates individually.

Final Thoughts

USPS provides one of the most stable government job options for individuals with felony convictions. While mail theft and federal crimes remain disqualifying, most other offenses are reviewed individually.

With starting pay of $19–$23/ hour, strong union support, and career growth to $50,000–$65,000 per year with benefits and retirement, USPS offers reliable employment and a true second chance within a respected federal institution.

Next Step: Apply directly at USPS.com/careers and complete the required Postal Exam 474.