Does Denny's Drug Test?
Last updated:
Denny's generally does not drug test employees during the hiring process. Most locations — both corporate and franchise — do not require pre-employment drug screening.
Denny's does not drug test most employees during the hiring process. Denny's operates over 1,500 restaurants across the United States through a mix of corporate-owned and franchise locations. The vast majority of locations do not include drug testing in the hiring process for servers, cooks, hosts, or dishwashers. Denny's is an especially accessible employer for people looking for restaurant work — the chain is open 24/7 at most locations, hires for all shifts, and has a straightforward application process. Denny's is widely known in the industry as an employer that gives people a fresh start.
Drug Testing by Position
| Position | Tested? | Test Type | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Server / Waitstaff | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Cook / Line Cook | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Host / Hostess | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Dishwasher / Utility | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Shift Manager | Rarely | Urine (if tested) | Post-accident, reasonable suspicion |
| General Manager | Varies | Urine (if tested) | Pre-employment (some locations), post-accident |
Denny's Hiring Approach
Denny's has one of the most accessible hiring processes in the restaurant industry. The chain operates 24/7 at most locations and is constantly looking for reliable people to fill shifts across all dayparts — breakfast, lunch, dinner, and overnight. Drug testing is not part of the standard hiring process at the vast majority of Denny's locations. Whether the location is corporate-owned or franchise-operated, the approach is the same: get good people in the door, train them, and keep them. Denny's has publicly positioned itself as a second-chance employer.
Marijuana and Workplace Policy
Denny's does not screen for marijuana or other substances during hiring. The chain operates nationwide and its hiring practices reflect the national trend away from pre-employment drug testing in the restaurant industry. All employees are expected to be sober during their shifts. Denny's kitchens involve commercial equipment and hot surfaces that require alertness, so impairment on the job is taken seriously and can result in termination.
Tips for Applicants
Denny's is an excellent option for people re-entering the workforce, those with limited experience, or anyone who needs flexible scheduling. The 24/7 operating model means there are always shifts available, including overnight shifts that some people prefer. Apply online through the Denny's career portal or walk into any location to ask about openings. Servers can earn tips on top of their hourly wage, and cooks can build valuable kitchen experience. Denny's values reliability and good customer service above all else.
Recent Policy Changes
- 2020-2023: Like most restaurant chains, maintained minimal drug testing during the pandemic labor shortage to maximize hiring
- 2024-2026: Continues the industry-wide trend of not drug testing restaurant-level employees for pre-employment
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Denny's drug test employees?
- No. Denny's generally does not drug test employees during the hiring process. This applies to both corporate and franchise locations for most restaurant positions.
- Does Denny's drug test servers?
- No. Servers and waitstaff at Denny's are not drug tested during the hiring process.
- Does Denny's drug test for marijuana?
- Denny's does not drug test during hiring, so marijuana is not screened. Being impaired at work is still prohibited.
- Does Denny's do random drug tests?
- No. Denny's does not conduct random drug testing for restaurant employees.
- Does Denny's hire felons?
- Yes. Denny's is known as a second-chance employer and is generally willing to hire people with criminal records, particularly for restaurant-level positions.
- Is Denny's easy to get hired at?
- Yes. Denny's has an accessible hiring process and is frequently looking for reliable employees to fill shifts across all dayparts. Walk-in applications are welcome at most locations.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Denny's Careers — Apply for jobs
Official Denny's career portal for restaurant positions
- SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service: 1-800-662-4357
Related Resources on This Site
Also about this company
Similar companies
Helpful guides
- Food & BenefitsEBT card guide
- Phone & InternetFree government phone (Lifeline program)
- UtilitiesShutoff / disconnection protection
- HealthHow to apply for Medicaid