Does Rally's / Checkers Hire Felons?
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Rally's/Checkers is known as a very felon-friendly employer with high turnover and constant staffing needs.
Yes, Rally's (also known as Checkers) hires people with felony records at many locations. This double drive-through fast food chain is franchise-operated, and many franchise owners actively hire people with criminal records. Rally's/Checkers locations are often in urban areas and working-class neighborhoods where second-chance hiring is common. The chain's high turnover and 24-hour operations at many locations create constant staffing needs. Most franchise locations do not conduct formal background checks for crew positions.
Hiring by Position
| Position | Felon Friendly? | Background Check | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crew Member | Yes | Rarely | Very accessible. Many locations hire quickly without formal background checks. |
| Cook | Yes | Rarely | Kitchen work. Focus on speed and quality. |
| Cashier / Drive-Through | Yes | Rarely | All service is through drive-through windows. Limited customer interaction. |
| Shift Manager | Sometimes | Sometimes | Promoted from within. Reliability is the primary qualification. |
| General Manager | Sometimes | Yes | Background check more likely for management positions. |
Rally's/Checkers Hiring Practices
Rally's and Checkers are the same company — Rally's is the brand name used in the western US while Checkers is used in the eastern US. The chain operates over 800 double drive-through restaurants across the country. Most locations are franchise-owned, and the chain has a strong reputation in the second-chance community as a felon-friendly employer. The double drive-through format means less direct customer interaction than at sit-down restaurants, which can benefit applicants concerned about customer-facing roles.
Background Check Process
Most Rally's/Checkers franchise locations do not conduct formal background checks for entry-level crew positions. The hiring process is typically fast — apply, interview, and start within days. Some franchise groups may run basic checks, but this is not standard for crew roles. Management positions are more likely to require background screening.
What Disqualifies You
Because many locations do not conduct formal background checks for crew positions, disqualification at the application stage is uncommon. At locations that do check, sex offenses and active warrants are most likely to disqualify. Most violent, drug, and property offenses are accepted at the crew level.
Tips for Getting Hired
Walk into Rally's/Checkers locations and ask about openings. Bring your ID and be ready to start quickly. Late-night and overnight shifts are often hardest to fill. Emphasize reliability and speed. If one location says no, try another franchise.
Application Tips for People with Records
- 1.Apply in person at the restaurant — Rally's/Checkers favors walk-in applicants.
- 2.Be ready to start quickly. Many locations hire and train within the same week.
- 3.Volunteer for overnight shifts — many locations are open 24 hours and struggle to staff late shifts.
- 4.The double drive-through format means less face-to-face customer interaction.
- 5.Apply to multiple locations — different franchise owners have different policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Rally's/Checkers hire felons?
- Yes, Rally's/Checkers is widely known as a felon-friendly employer. Many franchise locations hire people with felony records for crew and kitchen positions without formal background checks.
- Does Rally's/Checkers do background checks?
- Most franchise locations do not conduct formal background checks for entry-level crew positions. Management roles may require screening.
- Are Rally's and Checkers the same company?
- Yes. Rally's and Checkers are the same restaurant chain. Rally's is the brand name used in the western US while Checkers is used in the eastern US.
- Does Rally's/Checkers drug test?
- Most locations do not drug test for crew positions. Policies vary by franchise owner.
- How much does Rally's/Checkers pay?
- Crew members typically earn $8-$12 per hour depending on location. Management positions pay more.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Checkers/Rally's Careers
Official career page for both brands.
- National HIRE Network
Employment resources for people with records.
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