Does In-N-Out Burger Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

In-N-Out's Hiring Approach

In-N-Out Burger is a privately held, corporate-owned fast food chain with over 400 locations in California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Oregon, Colorado, and Texas. Unlike most fast food chains, In-N-Out has no franchises — every location is company-owned with standardized hiring practices. In-N-Out is known for paying significantly above minimum wage (starting at $18-$22/hour in many markets) and offering benefits including dental and vision. This makes positions more competitive than at typical fast food chains. The company does conduct background checks but is located primarily in states with strong fair chance hiring laws.

Background Check Process

In-N-Out conducts background checks on all applicants after extending a conditional offer. In California (where most locations are), the Fair Chance Act prohibits employers from asking about criminal history before the conditional offer and requires individualized assessment of any criminal records found. In-N-Out follows these laws and evaluates records based on the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and relevance to the position. The background check typically covers 7 years in California.

What Disqualifies You

In-N-Out evaluates records individually in compliance with state laws. Violent felonies within the past 7 years are more likely to be disqualifying. Sex offenses are typically disqualifying. Theft convictions are assessed carefully given the cash-handling nature of the work. Drug possession charges, especially older ones, are less likely to disqualify. In California, convictions older than 7 years generally cannot be considered.

Tips for Getting Hired

In-N-Out values a positive attitude, clean appearance, and customer service orientation. Apply online through their careers page. If you have a record, the most important thing is to present yourself as reliable and customer-focused during the interview. In-N-Out promotes entirely from within — starting as an associate can lead to a six-figure management career. Emphasize your long-term commitment. Know your rights under your state's fair chance hiring laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does In-N-Out hire felons?

In-N-Out hires some people with felony records. The company conducts background checks but uses individualized assessment, especially in California where the Fair Chance Act applies. Non-violent offenses older than 5-7 years have the best chance.

Does In-N-Out do background checks?

Yes, In-N-Out conducts background checks on all applicants after a conditional job offer. In California, they must follow the Fair Chance Act which limits how criminal history can be used in hiring decisions.

Does In-N-Out drug test?

In-N-Out's drug testing policies vary by state. In California, pre-employment marijuana testing has become less common. Other substances may still be tested for.

How much does In-N-Out pay?

In-N-Out starting pay is $18-$22/hour for associates in most markets, well above typical fast food wages. Managers can earn $100,000-$180,000+ annually.

Is In-N-Out franchised?

No, In-N-Out is entirely corporate-owned. Every location is company-owned with standardized policies. This means consistent hiring practices but also consistent background check requirements.