Does Verizon Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

Background Check Policy

Verizon conducts background checks on all new hires after extending a conditional offer. The company uses a third-party background screening provider and typically checks 7 years of criminal history. Verizon uses individualized assessment, considering the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and relevance to the position. The company is Ban the Box compliant and does not ask about criminal history on job applications. Field technician positions include a driving record check since they operate company vehicles. Verizon follows FCRA procedures including pre-adverse and adverse action notices.

What Disqualifies You

For retail positions: theft and fraud convictions within 7 years are the most concerning, given access to expensive devices and customer financial information. For field technician roles: violent felonies are a significant concern since technicians enter customers' homes, and DUI/driving offenses may disqualify for positions requiring vehicle operation. Sex offenses are generally disqualifying for all positions. Drug possession older than 3-5 years is typically less of a barrier. Identity theft and fraud convictions are particularly problematic given Verizon's handling of personal data.

Application Tips

Apply through Verizon's careers website (verizon.com/about/careers). Retail sales positions have the highest volume of openings. If you have a clean driving record and no violent/theft convictions, field technician positions pay well. Highlight customer service experience, sales ability, and technical aptitude. Verizon values diversity and inclusion in its workforce. Note that many Verizon retail stores are authorized dealers (not Verizon-owned) and have their own hiring policies.

Verizon-Owned vs. Authorized Dealers

An important distinction: some Verizon retail stores are corporate-owned, while many are authorized dealers (separate companies). Corporate-owned stores follow Verizon's hiring policies directly. Authorized dealers set their own hiring policies, which may be more or less flexible. If you are turned down at a corporate store, an authorized dealer in the same area may have different standards, and vice versa. Look for 'Verizon Authorized Retailer' signage to identify dealer stores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Verizon hire felons?

Verizon considers applicants with felony records on a case-by-case basis. Retail sales and some technical positions are accessible for people with non-violent, non-theft records. The company uses individualized assessment.

Does Verizon do background checks?

Yes. Verizon runs background checks on all new hires through a third-party provider. The check typically covers 7 years of criminal history. Field technician positions also include a driving record check.

Does Verizon drug test?

Verizon may drug test for some positions, particularly field technicians and safety-sensitive roles. Retail and call center positions may not always require pre-employment drug testing.

How much does Verizon pay?

Verizon retail sales representatives typically earn $40,000-$60,000+ annually including commissions. Field technicians earn $50,000-$75,000+. Verizon offers competitive benefits including health insurance, 401(k), and tuition assistance.

What is the difference between Verizon and Verizon authorized dealers?

Verizon-owned stores are operated directly by Verizon with corporate hiring policies. Authorized dealers are separate companies that sell Verizon products and set their own hiring policies. Both sell the same products and plans, but employment terms differ.