Does Penske Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

Penske's Two Business Lines and Job Opportunities

Penske operates through two primary business lines, and understanding the distinction helps you target the right jobs. Penske Truck Leasing handles commercial truck rental, full-service leasing, and vehicle maintenance. This division operates over 700 maintenance and rental locations across North America and employs thousands of diesel technicians, rental counter staff, and support personnel. Penske Logistics provides supply chain management, warehousing, distribution, and dedicated transportation services. This division operates warehouses and distribution centers for major companies and also provides dedicated CDL drivers. For people with criminal records, Penske Truck Leasing's maintenance shops offer excellent opportunities for diesel mechanics and technicians — positions that prioritize technical skill over background history. Penske Logistics' warehouse operations provide accessible entry-level positions with standard background checks. The dedicated transportation division employs CDL drivers who are subject to DOT regulations and have the strictest background requirements of any Penske positions.

Diesel Technician Careers at Penske: A Strong Second-Chance Path

Penske operates one of the largest commercial vehicle maintenance networks in the country, and diesel technicians are consistently in high demand. This creates a genuine opportunity for people with criminal records who have mechanical skills or aptitude. Penske's technician program is structured with multiple levels: Tech I (entry-level, basic maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections), Tech II (intermediate, brake work, electrical diagnostics, PM services), and Tech III/Master (advanced diagnostics, engine and transmission work, full vehicle systems). Entry-level Tech I positions are accessible without formal training or certifications, and Penske invests in developing their technicians through internal training programs. Pay ranges from $20-22 per hour for Tech I up to $30-38+ per hour for experienced Tech III/Master technicians. Penske values ASE certifications and often provides tuition assistance for continuing education. The background check for technician positions is a standard criminal history search, and Penske's chronic need for qualified technicians means that mechanical ability and reliability are weighted much more heavily than criminal history in hiring decisions.

Warehouse Positions in Penske Logistics

Penske Logistics operates warehouses and distribution centers across the country for a variety of clients. Warehouse associate positions include order picking, packing, loading, receiving, inventory management, and forklift operation. These positions are among the most accessible at Penske for people with criminal records. The background check is a standard criminal history search, and Penske's practical approach to warehouse staffing means non-violent felony records older than 2-3 years are typically not barriers. Pay ranges from $16-22 per hour depending on location, shift, and specific role, with shift differentials for evening and overnight work. Note that some Penske Logistics warehouse locations are operated for specific clients who may impose additional background requirements. Healthcare and high-security clients may have stricter standards than general retail or consumer goods accounts. When applying, ask whether the specific warehouse has any client-specific background requirements beyond Penske's standard screening.

CDL Driving at Penske Logistics

Penske Logistics' dedicated transportation services employ CDL drivers who run routes for specific Penske customers. These positions are subject to all federal DOT requirements: FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse check, pre-employment DOT drug test, MVR review, criminal history search (7-10 years), previous employer verification (3 years), and CDL status confirmation. Penske's company standards for driving positions typically require no felony convictions within 5 years for non-violent offenses, no DUI/DWI within 5 years, a clean MVR, and passing all DOT physical and drug testing requirements. The specific customer account may impose additional restrictions beyond Penske's standards. Unlike truckload carriers that focus heavily on OTR driving, many of Penske's dedicated driving positions are local or regional with regular home time, which can be advantageous for people in reentry who need schedule stability. Penske does not offer a large CDL training program, so you generally need to bring your own CDL when applying for driving positions.

Background Check Process at Penske

Penske conducts background checks on all applicants after a conditional offer of employment. For CDL positions, the screening is DOT-compliant and comprehensive: criminal history search (typically 7 years), MVR review, FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse query, pre-employment DOT drug test, previous employer verification (3 years), and CDL verification. For non-driving positions (warehouse, technician, rental counter), Penske conducts a standard criminal history check typically covering 7 years. Penske uses third-party screening providers and follows FCRA requirements, including pre-adverse action notification. The company applies individualized assessment, considering the nature and severity of the offense, time elapsed since conviction or release, and relevance to the position. Some customer-site positions may require additional client-specific screening. The standard process takes 3-7 business days for non-driving positions and 5-10 days for CDL positions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Penske hire felons?

Penske does hire some people with felony records. Warehouse and truck wash positions are the most accessible. Diesel technician positions are very accessible for people with mechanical skills. CDL driving positions require 5+ years since a felony conviction and DOT compliance. Penske evaluates applicants individually.

Does Penske do background checks?

Yes. CDL positions undergo DOT-compliant screening including criminal history, MVR, Clearinghouse query, drug testing, and employer verification. Non-driving positions undergo standard criminal history checks. Some client-specific positions may require additional screening.

How much do Penske diesel technicians make?

Penske diesel technician pay ranges from $20-22 per hour for entry-level Tech I positions up to $30-38+ per hour for experienced Tech III/Master technicians. Penske offers benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, tool allowances, and tuition assistance for certifications. Pay varies by location and experience level.

Does Penske drug test?

Yes. CDL positions are subject to mandatory DOT drug testing including pre-employment, random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing. Non-CDL positions including technician and warehouse roles may be subject to pre-employment drug testing depending on the location and client requirements.

Is Penske or Ryder better for people with records?

Penske and Ryder have very similar business models and background check practices. Both hire people with records for warehouse and mechanic positions. If one declines you, try the other. The specific location, available positions, and individual hiring manager can affect your experience at either company.

Can I work at Penske with a DUI?

For non-driving positions (warehouse, mechanic, truck wash), a DUI is generally not disqualifying if it occurred more than a few years ago. For CDL driving positions, DUI typically requires a 5-year waiting period. DUI in a commercial vehicle is a serious DOT issue. Non-driving roles are the safest option if you have a DUI on your record.