Does Heartland Express do background checks?

Yes, Heartland Express conducts background checks for all positions. CDL driving positions require DOT-compliant checks including criminal history, MVR, and FMCSA Clearinghouse verification.

Does Heartland Express drug test?

Yes, drug testing is required for all CDL driving positions under DOT regulations. This includes pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing. Non-driving positions may also require drug testing.

Can I drive a truck with a felony?

Yes, many people with felony records work as truck drivers. Most companies require a waiting period of 3-10 years after conviction. DUI, drug trafficking, and certain violent felonies have longer waiting periods or may be permanently disqualifying.

Does Heartland Express offer CDL training?

Check Heartland Express's career page for CDL training program availability. Many trucking companies offer company-sponsored CDL training but may have background requirements for enrollment.

Does Heartland Express Hire Felons?

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Sometimes

Heartland Express hires some people with records after waiting periods. Large truckload carrier with short-haul focus.

Heartland Express hires some people with felony records, typically after waiting periods. The truckload carrier is one of the largest in the US, operating primarily short-to-medium haul routes. Heartland Express evaluates criminal records on a case-by-case basis for CDL driving positions. The company requires a clean MVR and compliance with DOT regulations. Non-driving positions at terminals may have more flexibility for people with records.

Hiring by Position

Position	Felon Friendly?	Background Check	Notes
OTR Truck Driver (CDL-A)	Sometimes	Yes — DOT compliant	Over-the-road driving. DOT background check and drug test required. Waiting period for felonies.
Regional / Local Driver	Sometimes	Yes — DOT compliant	Shorter routes. Same DOT requirements as OTR but more home time.
Dock Worker / Freight Handler	Sometimes	Yes	Non-driving position. Loading/unloading freight. More accessible for people with records.
Yard Jockey / Spotter	Sometimes	Yes	Moving trailers within the yard. CDL required but less strict than OTR driving.
Warehouse / Cross-dock	Sometimes	Yes	Warehouse and sorting operations. Non-driving with physical labor.
CDL Training Program	Sometimes	Yes	Company-sponsored CDL training if available. Background checked before enrollment.

Heartland Express Hiring Practices for People with Records

Heartland Express is a trucking and freight company that hires for both driving and non-driving positions. For CDL driving positions, all trucking companies must comply with DOT regulations including background checks and drug testing. Heartland Express evaluates criminal records for driving positions on a case-by-case basis. Most trucking companies require a waiting period of 3-10 years after a felony conviction before considering applicants for driving roles. Non-driving positions like dock worker and warehouse roles may have more flexibility.

Background Check Process

Heartland Express conducts DOT-compliant background checks for all driving positions, which include criminal history, driving record (MVR), drug and alcohol testing history (via the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse), and employment verification for the past 10 years. Non-driving positions typically receive standard criminal background checks. The DOT requires a minimum 3-year lookback for driving violations.

What Disqualifies You from Driving for Heartland Express

For CDL driving positions: DUI/DWI convictions within the past 3-5 years are typically disqualifying. Drug trafficking convictions may be permanently disqualifying. Reckless driving and vehicular homicide are disqualifying. Any positive drug or alcohol test in the FMCSA Clearinghouse without completion of return-to-duty process is disqualifying. For non-driving positions: violent felonies and theft are evaluated individually. Sex offenses are typically disqualifying for all positions.

Tips for Getting Hired at Heartland Express with a Record

For driving positions, be upfront about your record and know exactly how long ago each conviction occurred. Many trucking companies have specific waiting periods (usually 3-10 years from conviction or release date). Consider starting with a non-driving position (dock worker, warehouse) to build a relationship with the company before transitioning to driving. If your CDL training is company-sponsored, the company is invested in your success. Keep your driving record clean and stay enrolled in the FMCSA Clearinghouse.

Application Tips for People with Records

1.Apply online through Heartland Express's career portal — be completely honest about your record and driving history.
2.Know exactly how long ago each conviction occurred. Many trucking companies have specific waiting periods (3-10 years).
3.Consider starting in a non-driving role (dock worker, warehouse) to build a track record with the company.
4.Keep your driving record clean — even minor violations matter for CDL positions.
5.Register for the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse to show compliance.
6.If Heartland Express offers CDL training, inquire about eligibility requirements for applicants with records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Heartland Express hire felons?: Heartland Express hires some people with felony records, primarily after waiting periods. Non-driving positions like dock worker and warehouse are generally more accessible than CDL driving positions.
Does Heartland Express do background checks?: Yes, Heartland Express conducts background checks for all positions. CDL driving positions require DOT-compliant checks including criminal history, MVR, and FMCSA Clearinghouse verification.
Does Heartland Express drug test?: Yes, drug testing is required for all CDL driving positions under DOT regulations. This includes pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing. Non-driving positions may also require drug testing.
Can I drive a truck with a felony?: Yes, many people with felony records work as truck drivers. Most companies require a waiting period of 3-10 years after conviction. DUI, drug trafficking, and certain violent felonies have longer waiting periods or may be permanently disqualifying.
Does Heartland Express offer CDL training?: Check Heartland Express's career page for CDL training program availability. Many trucking companies offer company-sponsored CDL training but may have background requirements for enrollment.

Take Action — Direct Links

Heartland Express Careers
Official career page.
FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse
Required for all CDL holders.
National HIRE Network
Employment resources for people with records.

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Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Company hiring policies change frequently and may vary by location, franchise, or position. Always confirm the current policy with the hiring manager or HR representative. A background check does not automatically disqualify you — you have rights under the EEOC guidelines and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).