Does AT&T Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

How AT&T's Background Check Works

AT&T conducts background checks on all prospective employees through a third-party screening provider. The standard check includes a criminal history search covering county, state, and federal records, a Social Security number trace, and verification of employment eligibility. For driving-related positions (field technicians, installers), a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check is also included. The lookback period is generally 7 years for criminal convictions, consistent with EEOC guidance and applicable state laws. Some states, such as California and New York, have additional restrictions on how far back an employer can look and what types of records can be considered. AT&T uses an individualized assessment process, meaning a criminal record does not result in an automatic rejection. Instead, the company considers the nature and gravity of the offense, the time that has passed, and the nature of the job being sought — the three factors recommended by the EEOC.

Which Convictions Are Most Challenging at AT&T

Given that AT&T's business involves handling expensive equipment, processing financial transactions, accessing customer account information, and entering private homes, certain types of convictions are more difficult to overcome than others. Theft and fraud convictions are particularly challenging because most AT&T roles involve handling merchandise, cash, or customer financial data. Violent felonies are scrutinized closely, especially for field roles that require entering customer homes. Identity theft and cybercrime convictions may be disqualifying for any role with access to customer accounts or company systems. Sexual offenses are generally disqualifying, particularly for positions requiring home access. Drug offenses, especially non-violent possession charges that are older, tend to be more manageable — particularly for warehouse and non-customer-facing roles. DUI convictions primarily affect driving positions (field technicians, installers) but may not disqualify you from retail or call center work.

AT&T Retail Store Positions

AT&T retail stores are one of the most common entry points for people with records looking to build a career with the company. Retail sales associates sell phones, plans, and accessories, and the positions typically pay a base hourly rate plus commission. The work involves handling expensive devices and processing financial transactions, which is why theft and fraud convictions are particularly relevant. That said, many people with non-theft, non-violent records have been successfully hired at AT&T retail locations. The retail environment offers regular hours, benefits for full-time employees, and opportunities for advancement into store management. AT&T operates both company-owned stores and authorized retailer locations — authorized retailers are independently owned businesses that may have different hiring standards (sometimes more lenient) than corporate stores.

Field Technician and Installer Roles

AT&T field technicians and installers set up internet, phone, and TV service at customer homes and businesses. These positions require a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and the ability to pass both criminal and MVR background checks. The pay is typically higher than retail ($18-$28/hour depending on experience and location), and the roles come with full benefits, a company vehicle, and tools. Because technicians enter private homes and interact one-on-one with customers, AT&T applies more scrutiny to violent, theft, and sexual offenses for these positions. However, the demand for technicians is high and turnover is significant, which creates opportunities for people with older or non-violent records. If you have technical aptitude and a clean driving record, these roles can be excellent career opportunities even with a criminal history.

Union Positions and CWA Membership

Many AT&T positions, particularly field technician and call center roles, are represented by the Communications Workers of America (CWA) union. Union membership provides additional protections that can benefit people with criminal records. Union contracts often include grievance procedures that make it harder for the company to rescind a job offer based solely on a background check. Union positions also tend to offer higher wages, better benefits, and more job security. If you are hired into a union-represented position at AT&T, you gain the protections of the collective bargaining agreement, which includes due process rights if there are any disputes about your employment. The CWA has been supportive of fair-chance hiring initiatives, and union representatives can be valuable advocates during the hiring process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does AT&T hire felons?

AT&T does hire people with felony records on a case-by-case basis. The company uses individualized assessment, considering the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and relevance to the job. Non-violent felonies that are older are more likely to be approved. Theft, fraud, violent, and sexual offenses face more scrutiny, especially for customer-facing and home-access roles.

Does AT&T do background checks?

Yes, AT&T conducts background checks on all prospective employees through a third-party screening provider. The check includes criminal history, Social Security trace, and for driving positions, a Motor Vehicle Records check. The standard lookback is 7 years, though this varies by state.

How far back does AT&T's background check go?

AT&T's background check generally covers the past 7 years of criminal history. Some states have laws that limit the lookback period (California, New York, and others cap it at 7 years for non-conviction records). Convictions older than 7 years may still be reportable in some states but are given less weight in the assessment.

Can I work at AT&T with a DUI?

A DUI conviction is primarily an issue for driving positions (field technicians, installers) where a clean MVR is required. For retail, call center, and warehouse positions, a DUI is less likely to be disqualifying. If your DUI is older and you have maintained a clean driving record since, even driving positions may be possible.

Does AT&T drug test?

AT&T does conduct pre-employment drug testing for most positions. DOT-regulated positions (those involving driving) require DOT drug and alcohol testing, including random testing during employment. Non-DOT positions typically have a pre-employment drug test only. Policies may vary by state and position.

What is the difference between AT&T corporate stores and authorized retailers?

AT&T corporate stores are owned and operated directly by AT&T, with standardized hiring practices. Authorized retailers are independently owned businesses that sell AT&T products and services under their own management. Authorized retailers set their own hiring policies, which may be more or less strict than corporate stores. If you're having difficulty getting hired at a corporate store, try authorized retailers in your area.

How much does AT&T pay?

Pay varies by role and location. Retail sales associates typically earn $14-$20/hour plus commission. Field technicians earn $18-$28/hour. Call center representatives earn $15-$22/hour. Full-time positions include benefits such as health insurance, 401(k), tuition assistance, and paid time off.