Does IHOP Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

IHOP's Franchise Model and What It Means for Hiring

IHOP operates approximately 1,700 locations across the United States, and the vast majority are independently owned and operated by franchisees. The IHOP brand is owned by Dine Brands Global, which sets overarching brand standards but leaves day-to-day hiring decisions to franchise operators. This means that two IHOP locations in the same city could have completely different approaches to hiring people with criminal records. Some franchise operators are very open to giving people with felonies a second chance, while others may be more restrictive. Large multi-unit franchisees may have more formal HR policies, while single-unit operators may make decisions on a more personal basis. The practical implication is that getting rejected at one IHOP says nothing about your chances at another.

Background Check Process at IHOP

Most IHOP franchisees conduct some form of background check on new hires, though the scope varies. Larger franchise groups typically use third-party background screening companies and run checks after a conditional offer. A standard IHOP background check includes a criminal history search (usually going back 7 years), Social Security number verification, and a sex offender registry check. Some franchisees in ban-the-box jurisdictions delay any criminal history inquiry until after the initial interview or conditional offer. The background check process usually takes 3-7 business days. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), if a background check reveals information that may lead to a hiring decision against you, the franchisee must follow pre-adverse action and adverse action notice procedures.

What Could Disqualify You at IHOP

Disqualifying factors depend on the specific franchise operator, but patterns across the restaurant industry suggest that violent felonies within the past 5-7 years, sex offenses, and active warrants or pending charges are the most common disqualifiers. Theft and fraud convictions may be problematic for server and cashier positions that involve handling money. Drug possession charges, especially those older than a few years, are generally less of a barrier in the restaurant industry. IHOP's identity as a family-friendly restaurant means some franchisees may be particularly cautious about violent offenses or offenses involving minors. However, many franchisees focus primarily on the recency of the offense and whether the applicant seems reliable and motivated.

The Breakfast and Family Dining Industry Advantage

The family dining and breakfast restaurant segment has characteristics that work in favor of applicants with criminal records. These restaurants operate on thin margins and depend on high-volume, low-cost labor. Turnover rates in casual and family dining often exceed 100% annually, meaning restaurants are constantly hiring. IHOP's breakfast-heavy model requires early morning staffing that can be difficult to fill, making operators more willing to hire from a broader pool. Additionally, IHOP's hours (many locations are open 24/7 or have very early opening times) create shift opportunities that align with various schedule needs, including those of people on probation or parole with curfew restrictions. The industry's practical need for reliable workers often outweighs concerns about criminal history.

How to Approach Your IHOP Job Search

Start by searching for IHOP locations in your area and identifying which franchise group operates each one. You can often find this information on the restaurant's business license or by asking staff. Apply at multiple locations to maximize your chances since different franchisees have different policies. Visit during slow periods (mid-morning on weekdays, between the breakfast and lunch rushes) to introduce yourself to the manager. Online applications through IHOP's careers website or Indeed are also common. During the interview, emphasize your reliability, willingness to work early morning and weekend shifts, and any food service experience. If you are hired, focus on building a strong attendance and performance record — this opens doors to raises, better shifts, and promotion to higher-paying positions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does IHOP hire felons?

Many IHOP locations do hire people with felony records, but it depends on the individual franchise owner. Nearly all IHOP restaurants are independently operated, so policies vary by location. Kitchen and support roles tend to be the most accessible. Apply at multiple locations for the best results.

Does IHOP do background checks?

Most IHOP 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 depth of the check and how results are evaluated varies by franchise operator.

How far back does IHOP's background check go?

Most IHOP franchisees check 7 years of criminal history. In states with lookback restrictions (like California), employers are legally limited to 7 years. Even in states without such limits, most restaurant franchisees focus on recent history.

Does IHOP drug test?

Drug testing policies vary by IHOP franchise. Some franchisees require pre-employment drug testing while others do not. Post-accident and reasonable suspicion testing is more common. Ask the specific location about their policy during the application process.

Can I work at IHOP with a drug felony?

Many IHOP franchisees will hire people with drug-related felonies, especially if the conviction is older than a few years. Possession charges are generally viewed more favorably than distribution or manufacturing charges. Kitchen roles are the most accessible path.

Who owns IHOP?

The IHOP brand is owned by Dine Brands Global, which also owns Applebee's. However, individual IHOP restaurants are operated by independent franchise owners who make their own hiring decisions. This means policies vary significantly from one location to another.

Can I be a server at IHOP with a felony?

It depends on the franchise owner and the nature of your conviction. Server positions involve cash handling, which makes theft-related convictions more of a concern. Non-violent felonies that are several years old are less likely to be a barrier. Starting in a kitchen role and working toward a server position is a solid strategy.

What if IHOP rejects me because of my record?

Try another IHOP location — since they are independently owned, each franchise makes its own hiring decisions. You can also try Applebee's (same parent company) or other restaurant chains in your area. If you believe the rejection violated fair hiring laws in your jurisdiction, you can file a complaint with your state labor board or the EEOC.