Does Schneider Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

Schneider's Hiring Philosophy for People with Records

Schneider National, headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is one of the most recognized names in American trucking with a distinctive orange fleet visible on highways nationwide. The company employs over 15,000 people and operates one of the most diversified trucking operations in the industry. Schneider uses an individualized assessment when evaluating applicants with criminal records, and their practical willingness to hire people with felonies falls in the middle of major carriers — less lenient than CRST or Swift, but more open than many smaller carriers with blanket disqualification policies. Schneider's diversity of operations (van, intermodal, dedicated, bulk, logistics) means there are multiple types of positions available, some of which are more accessible to people with records than others. The persistent driver shortage has pushed Schneider, like most carriers, to reconsider rigid disqualification thresholds, particularly for non-violent offenses with sufficient time elapsed.

CDL Requirements and DOT Regulations at Schneider

All CDL driving positions at Schneider are subject to federal DOT regulations. The FMCSA mandates lifetime CDL disqualification for using a commercial vehicle to commit a felony involving controlled substances, and one-year disqualification for DUI in a CMV, leaving the scene of an accident, or causing a fatality through negligent operation (three years with hazmat). Beyond these federal minimums, Schneider's company standards typically require no felony convictions within the past 5 years for most driving positions, no DUI/DWI within 5 years, no more than 3 moving violations in the past 3 years, a clean MVR with no reckless driving or serious at-fault accidents, and no unresolved violations in the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. For bulk/tanker positions requiring a hazmat endorsement, the TSA conducts a separate security threat assessment that checks for specific disqualifying offenses including espionage, treason, and certain crimes involving transportation security. This TSA check is separate from and in addition to Schneider's standard background check.

Schneider Training Academy

Schneider offers CDL training through the Schneider Training Academy, which can be a pathway into trucking for people without a CDL, including some with criminal records. The program includes classroom instruction, simulator training, and behind-the-wheel training. Graduates commit to driving for Schneider for a contract period to work off the training cost. The academy conducts a preliminary background review before acceptance, and their standards are moderate — they are more selective than CRST's training program but will accept some applicants with older non-violent felony records. Before applying, contact Schneider recruiting at 1-800-558-6767 to discuss your specific situation. Schneider has multiple training locations and new classes begin regularly. The academy focuses heavily on safety, which is a core part of Schneider's corporate identity (they consistently rank among the safest carriers in the industry). This safety focus means background checks are taken seriously, but it also means Schneider invests in proper training for all their drivers.

Intermodal: A Strong Option for People with Records

Schneider's intermodal division deserves special attention for people with criminal records seeking truck driving careers. Intermodal drivers haul shipping containers between rail yards (called ramps) and customer locations. The key advantage is that intermodal driving is typically local or regional with drivers home daily or several times per week, unlike OTR driving which keeps you on the road for weeks at a time. For people in reentry who need to maintain regular contact with parole officers, attend programs, or be present for family obligations, intermodal driving offers the income potential of trucking with a more stable home schedule. Schneider operates one of the largest intermodal fleets in North America. Some intermodal positions do require a TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card for port access, and the TWIC background check is conducted by the TSA with its own set of disqualifying offenses. However, many intermodal routes do not require port access, so a TWIC card may not be needed for all positions.

Background Check Process at Schneider

Schneider's background check for CDL positions includes criminal history search (typically 7-10 years), MVR review from all states, FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse query, pre-employment DOT drug test, previous employer verification (3 years per DOT requirement), and CDL verification. For positions requiring hazmat endorsement, the TSA security threat assessment is an additional layer. For warehouse and non-driving positions, a standard criminal history check is conducted. Schneider uses a third-party screening company and follows all FCRA requirements. The pre-adverse action process gives applicants an opportunity to respond to potentially disqualifying findings. Schneider recruiters can often provide a preliminary assessment of your eligibility based on the information you share during initial contact, which can save time in the application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Schneider hire felons?

Schneider does hire some people with felony records on a case-by-case basis. For CDL driving positions, non-violent felonies typically need to be at least 5 years old. Warehouse and logistics positions have more flexibility. Drug trafficking, violent felonies, and sex offenses face the strictest standards.

Does Schneider do background checks?

Yes. CDL driving positions undergo a comprehensive DOT-compliant background check including criminal history, MVR review, FMCSA Clearinghouse query, drug testing, and previous employer verification. Positions requiring hazmat endorsement also require a TSA security threat assessment. Non-driving positions undergo standard criminal history checks.

Can I get CDL training through Schneider with a felony?

Schneider's Training Academy does consider applicants with felony records, but their standards are moderate. Non-violent felonies that are 5+ years old have the best chance of acceptance. Contact Schneider recruiting to discuss your specific record before applying to the academy.

Does Schneider drug test?

Yes. All CDL positions at Schneider are subject to mandatory DOT drug testing including pre-employment, random, post-accident, return-to-duty, and reasonable suspicion testing. Schneider also checks the FMCSA Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse. Non-CDL positions may also require drug testing.

How much do Schneider drivers make?

Schneider driver pay varies by division and experience. OTR van drivers typically earn $55,000-$80,000 per year. Intermodal drivers who are home daily can earn $55,000-$75,000. Dedicated drivers vary by account. Bulk/tanker drivers with hazmat endorsement can earn $65,000-$90,000. Warehouse positions typically start at $16-22 per hour.

What is a TWIC card and do I need one for Schneider?

A TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) card is issued by the TSA and required for unescorted access to maritime facilities and ports. Some Schneider intermodal positions require a TWIC card. The TWIC background check looks at specific disqualifying offenses and is separate from Schneider's own screening. Not all Schneider positions require one — ask your recruiter about the specific position you are interested in.