Does Hooters do background checks?

Background check policies vary by franchise location. Some check all applicants while others focus on management positions.

Can I work in the kitchen at Hooters with a felony?

Kitchen positions are the most accessible at Hooters for people with records. Many franchise owners are willing to hire people with non-violent felonies for cook and dishwasher roles.

Does Hooters drug test?

Drug testing policies vary by franchise owner and location.

How much does Hooters pay?

Kitchen staff earn $10-$15/hour. Servers earn tipped wages plus tips.

Does Hooters Hire Felons?

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Sometimes

Hooters hires some people with records. Franchise-dependent with kitchen roles being the most accessible.

Hooters hires some people with felony records depending on the franchise location. The casual dining chain operates through a mix of corporate and franchise locations. Kitchen and back-of-house positions are the most accessible for people with criminal records. Front-of-house server (Hooters Girl) positions have more selective hiring criteria. Many franchise owners are willing to hire people with non-violent records for kitchen staff, dishwasher, and cook positions.

Hiring by Position

Position	Felon Friendly?	Background Check	Notes
Kitchen Staff / Cook	Sometimes	Varies by franchise	Most accessible role. Back-of-house with minimal customer interaction.
Dishwasher	Yes	Varies by franchise	Entry-level back-of-house. High turnover creates frequent openings.
Host	Sometimes	Varies	Customer-facing role at front door.
Server (Hooters Girl)	Sometimes	Yes	Customer-facing tipped position. More selective hiring process.
Manager	Rarely	Yes	Management responsibility with thorough background review.

Hooters Hiring Practices

Hooters is a casual dining chain with around 300 locations in the US, operated through a mix of corporate and franchise ownership. The chain's kitchen and back-of-house positions are the most accessible for people with criminal records. Hooters' franchise model means individual owners have significant discretion in hiring. Many franchise owners are willing to give second chances for kitchen roles where the focus is on cooking skills and reliability.

Background Check Process

Background check policies vary by Hooters franchise owner. Some locations conduct checks for all positions while others focus on management roles. Corporate-owned locations may have more standardized screening. The franchise owner's individual policies determine the level of background screening for each position.

What Disqualifies You

Disqualification depends on the franchise owner and the position. Violent felonies and sex offenses are most likely to disqualify, especially for customer-facing roles. Kitchen positions are more flexible. Drug offenses, especially older ones, are typically not disqualifying for back-of-house work.

Tips for Getting Hired

Apply in person during off-peak hours. Target kitchen and back-of-house positions for the best chances with a record. Emphasize cooking experience and reliability. Apply to multiple Hooters locations since franchise owners set independent policies.

Application Tips for People with Records

1.Target kitchen and back-of-house positions for the best chances with a record.
2.Apply in person during off-peak hours (2-4 PM) to meet the manager.
3.Emphasize cooking experience, reliability, and willingness to work evenings/weekends.
4.Apply to multiple locations — different franchise owners have different policies.
5.Kitchen experience is highly valued. Highlight any restaurant or food prep background.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Hooters hire felons?: Some Hooters locations hire people with felony records, especially for kitchen and back-of-house positions. Policies vary by franchise owner.
Does Hooters do background checks?: Background check policies vary by franchise location. Some check all applicants while others focus on management positions.
Can I work in the kitchen at Hooters with a felony?: Kitchen positions are the most accessible at Hooters for people with records. Many franchise owners are willing to hire people with non-violent felonies for cook and dishwasher roles.
Does Hooters drug test?: Drug testing policies vary by franchise owner and location.
How much does Hooters pay?: Kitchen staff earn $10-$15/hour. Servers earn tipped wages plus tips.

Take Action — Direct Links

Hooters Careers
Official career page.
National HIRE Network
Employment resources for people with records.

Related Resources on This Site

Similar companies

Helpful guides

RecoveryAA meetings — how to find one
Banking & CreditPayday Loan Alternatives
EducationScholarships for People with Records
Food & BenefitsWIC program guide

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).