Does Applebee's Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

Understanding Applebee's Franchise Structure

Applebee's is owned by Dine Brands Global, but nearly all of its approximately 1,600 U.S. locations are operated by independent franchisees. This means there is no single, uniform hiring policy for people with criminal records — each franchise group sets its own standards. Some of the largest Applebee's franchisees include Apple American Group, TSFR (The Savory Fund Restaurant Group), and RMH Franchise Holdings. In practice, this franchise model can work both for and against applicants with records. Some franchise owners are very open to hiring people with felonies, particularly in tight labor markets, while others may have stricter policies. The key takeaway is that being rejected at one Applebee's does not mean you will be rejected at another — even one across town owned by a different franchisee.

Background Check Process at Applebee's

Most Applebee's franchisees conduct background checks on new hires, though the scope and timing vary. Larger franchise groups typically use third-party background check companies and run checks after a conditional offer of employment. Smaller operators may conduct less formal screenings. A typical Applebee's background check includes a criminal history search (usually 7 years), Social Security number verification, and a sex offender registry check. Some franchisees in states with ban-the-box laws delay the background check inquiry until after the interview or conditional offer. The turnaround time is usually 3-7 business days. If the check reveals a criminal record, FCRA rules require the employer to follow pre-adverse and adverse action procedures before rescinding the offer.

What Could Disqualify You at Applebee's

Disqualifying factors vary by franchisee, but common red flags include violent felonies within the past 7 years, sex offenses (typically disqualifying across all franchises), active warrants or pending felony charges, and recent theft or fraud convictions for positions involving cash handling. Drug-related felonies, especially older possession charges, are generally less of a barrier in the restaurant industry. DUI convictions typically do not affect restaurant employment unless a driving component is involved. Some franchisees in states with fair chance hiring laws are required to conduct individualized assessments and cannot use blanket bans on hiring people with records.

How the Restaurant Industry's Labor Needs Work in Your Favor

The restaurant industry consistently faces one of the highest turnover rates of any sector — often exceeding 75% annually. This creates constant demand for workers and makes many restaurant operators, including Applebee's franchisees, more willing to hire people with criminal records. Casual dining restaurants like Applebee's rely heavily on a large hourly workforce, and many franchise operators have found that second chance hires can be among their most loyal and reliable employees. The National Restaurant Association has noted that the industry provides more first jobs and second chances than almost any other sector. If you have restaurant experience and a solid work ethic, many Applebee's franchisees will be willing to look past a criminal record.

Strategies for Getting Hired at Applebee's with a Record

Because hiring decisions are made at the franchise level, your best strategy is to apply at multiple Applebee's locations in your area, as each may be owned by a different franchisee with different policies. Apply in person during slow hours (2-4 PM on weekdays) so you can make a personal impression on the manager. Online applications through the Applebee's careers website or Indeed are also effective. When speaking with a hiring manager, emphasize reliability, availability for flexible shifts (nights, weekends, holidays), and any food service experience. If you are upfront about your record and demonstrate a strong work ethic, many franchise managers will give you a chance. If one location rejects you, try another — the franchise next door may have a completely different policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Applebee's hire felons?

Many Applebee's locations do hire people with felony records, but it depends on the franchise owner. Nearly all Applebee's restaurants are independently owned, so hiring policies vary. Back-of-house positions (dishwasher, cook) tend to be the most accessible. Apply at multiple locations for the best chances.

Does Applebee's do background checks?

Most Applebee's franchisees conduct background checks on new hires. The check typically includes a 7-year criminal history search, Social Security verification, and sex offender registry check. The timing and depth of the check varies by franchise.

How far back does Applebee's background check go?

Most Applebee's franchisees use a 7-year lookback for criminal history. In states with restrictions on how far back employers can look (like California), the 7-year limit is legally mandated. Older convictions carry less weight even in states without such limits.

Does Applebee's drug test?

Drug testing policies vary by franchise. Some Applebee's franchisees conduct pre-employment drug tests, while others do not. Post-accident and reasonable suspicion testing is more common across franchises. Ask the specific location about their policy during the hiring process.

Can I be a server at Applebee's with a felony?

It is possible, but server positions face more scrutiny than kitchen roles because they involve cash handling and customer interaction. Non-violent felonies that are several years old are less likely to be a barrier. Starting in a back-of-house role and working toward a server position is a good strategy.

Are all Applebee's owned by the same company?

No. The Applebee's brand is owned by Dine Brands Global, but nearly all locations are operated by independent franchise owners. This means each location may have different hiring policies, background check procedures, and willingness to hire people with records.

What if one Applebee's turns me down?

Try another location. Since different Applebee's are owned by different franchisees, each makes independent hiring decisions. A rejection at one location does not affect your chances at another. You can also try other Dine Brands restaurants like IHOP.

Does Applebee's follow Ban the Box laws?

Applebee's franchisees are required to comply with state and local ban-the-box laws where they apply. In jurisdictions with these laws, criminal history cannot be asked about until after an initial interview or conditional offer. Corporate guidelines encourage compliance, but enforcement is at the franchise level.