Does Pep Boys Hire Felons?
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Pep Boys conducts background checks but hires people with records for service technician and tire roles. Automotive experience is valued.
Pep Boys does hire some people with felony records. The automotive service and tire chain operates over 900 service centers across the United States. Pep Boys conducts background checks but evaluates results individually. Service technician, tire technician, and service writer positions are available. Pep Boys values automotive mechanical skills, and qualified technicians with records often find that their expertise outweighs background concerns. The ongoing shortage of qualified automotive technicians works in favor of applicants with records who have relevant skills. Entry-level tire technician positions are the most accessible starting point, with opportunities to advance into higher-paid mechanical and diagnostic roles.
Hiring by Position
| Position | Felon Friendly? | Background Check | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tire Technician | Yes | Yes — standard criminal check | Tire mounting, balancing, and rotation. Most accessible entry-level position. |
| Service Technician / Mechanic | Case-by-case | Yes — standard criminal check | Automotive repair and maintenance. ASE certification valued but not always required. |
| Service Writer / Advisor | Case-by-case | Yes — standard criminal check | Customer-facing role writing repair orders. Communication skills important. |
| Store Manager | Case-by-case | Yes — comprehensive check | Full service center management. |
Pep Boys Hiring Approach
Pep Boys is one of the largest automotive service and tire chains in the United States. The company focuses on automotive maintenance and repair services including oil changes, tire services, brakes, and general mechanical repair. Pep Boys conducts background checks but evaluates records individually. The automotive service industry faces a chronic shortage of qualified technicians, which creates opportunities for people with mechanical skills regardless of background. Tire technician positions are the most accessible entry point and require minimal prior experience. Experienced mechanics with ASE certifications are in high demand and may find the most flexibility in background screening.
Tips for Getting Hired
Apply online at pepboys.com/careers or visit your nearest service center. Tire technician is the best entry-level position — training is provided. If you have automotive mechanical experience or ASE certifications, emphasize them heavily. Pep Boys values hands-on skills and reliability. Be available for varied shifts including weekends when many customers bring in their vehicles.
Application Tips for People with Records
- 1.Apply at pepboys.com/careers. Target tire technician positions for the most accessible entry.
- 2.Highlight any automotive mechanical experience or ASE certifications.
- 3.Tire technician positions require minimal experience — training is provided.
- 4.Be available for varied shifts including weekends.
- 5.The automotive technician shortage works in your favor if you have mechanical skills.
- 6.Express interest in career growth from tire tech to full service technician.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Pep Boys hire felons?
- Pep Boys does hire some people with felony records. Tire technician positions are the most accessible. Automotive skills are highly valued.
- Does Pep Boys do background checks?
- Yes, Pep Boys conducts background checks on new hires.
- Does Pep Boys drug test?
- Drug testing policies vary by position. Some service roles may require pre-employment testing.
- Do I need ASE certification to work at Pep Boys?
- ASE certification is not required for tire technician positions but is valued for service technician roles. Pep Boys may support certification training.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Pep Boys Careers
Search and apply for positions at Pep Boys service centers.
- National HIRE Network
Free resources for people with criminal records seeking employment.
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