Last Updated: 02/23/2026
If you have a felony on your record and are thinking about applying to Starbucks, this guide will give you clear guidance and honest answers without hype or false promises often seen online.
Does Starbucks Hire Felons
Quick Answer
Yes, Starbucks does hire felons but it depends on the location, the type of conviction, and how recent the offense was. Unlike many fast food chains, most Starbucks locations in the United States are corporate owned. That means hiring policies are more strict and background checks are more common corporate policy.
Getting hired is possible, but Starbucks is much more selective than franchise-based fast food restaurants like Subway, Waffle House or Taco Bell to name just a few. Starbucks is huge and operates over 15,000 company operated stores in the United States making them a major emloyer.
☕ Starbucks Felon-Friendly Score™
33 / 50 – A moderate score. Starbucks can hire felons, but background checks and corporate policies make it more structured than franchise-based fast food chains.
| Category | Score | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Industry Type (Coffee / Quick Service) | 7/10 | Not as easy to get into as fast food and some other industries but overall not terrible. |
| Centralized Hiring | 5/10 | Most stores are corporate-owned with standardized policies. |
| Background Check Policy | 7/10 | Background checks are common for new hires. |
| Corporate Restrictions | 6/10 | Corporate guidelines may limit flexibility. |
| Second Chance Practicality | 8/10 | Starbucks will offer second chance employment to some felons. |
Starbucks’ Hiring Structure
Starbucks is primarily corporate-operated in the U.S., meaning hiring decisions follow company-wide policies rather than independent franchise discretion.
That means all Starbucks applications go through centralized systems and background checks are the norm. Store managers do have some discretion though which is good, but corporate standards apply.
In simple terms: Starbucks hiring is more structured than franchise-based chains but they are not as strict as larger retail companies like Walmart. You can apply through the official Starbucks careers page.
Does Starbucks Do Background Checks?
Yes, all Starbucks locations conduct background checks for new hires.
Background checks typically review the following:
- Criminal history
- Employment history
- Sometimes identity verification
State laws may limit how far back certain offenses can be considered.
Starbucks will take the following into account if you have a criminal record:
- Type of offense
- Time since conviction
- Whether the offense relates to customer safety or financial responsibility
- Evidence of rehabilitation
What Convictions May Cause Problems?
While every case is different, these may be the most challenging felonies.
- Violent offenses
- Recent theft or fraud charges
- Crimes involving customer safety
- Ongoing probation or unresolved charges
Older, non-violent convictions have a better chance of being looked over, especially if you have steady work history.
Best Positions to Apply For At Starbucks
If you have a felony record, consider applying for the following positions. They are the easiest to get.
- Barista
- Customer Support / Store Support
- Shift Supervisor (after gaining experience)
Avoid applying for:
- Store Manager
- Positions involving financial oversight
Start entry-level. Prove reliability and professionalism then apply for better positions.
What Should I Say in a Starbucks Interview if I Have a Felony?
Nothing! Only discuss it if the hiring manager brings it up. Keep it short and direct.
You should say something like:
“I made a mistake in the past, took responsibility, and have worked hard to move forward. I’m committed to reliability and growth.”
Stay calm. Stay confident. Don’t dwell on the subject.
What Starbucks Managers Actually Care About
Managers often look for:
- Reliability
- Strong customer service skills
- Professional presentation
- Ability to handle busy environments
- Team attitude
- Flexibility with scheduling
Starbucks places a strong emphasis on customer experience. If you demonstrate professionalism and consistency, that helps your case. It is a good idea to check out their mission and values page to get an understanding of their company culture. Intertwine some of these values into your interview.
Make it easy for them to say yes.
Example Interview Response
Manager asks: “Why do you want to work at Starbucks?”
You say:
“I enjoy working with customers and being part of a team. I think it world be great to be the one that gets to write some of those cool notes on customers coffee cups.”
Starbucks Hiring Readiness Checklist
Before applying, be honest with yourself.
☐ My felony is non-violent
☐ My conviction is more than 2–3 years old
☐ I have steady work history
☐ I present myself professionally
☐ I can work early mornings or weekends
☐ I can briefly explain my conviction if asked
What Your Score Means
5–6 checks: Solid chance at entry-level roles.
3–4 checks: Very possible, but apply broadly.
0–2 checks: Still try but this may be difficult.
Starbucks Pay Scale (Typical Ranges)
| Position | Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Barista | $12 – $18 |
| Shift Supervisor | $16 – $22 |
| Assistant Store Manager | $20 – $27 |
| Store Manager | $50,000 – $75,000/year |
(Pay varies by location and state laws.)
Honestly: Would You Hire Yourself?
Starbucks is very customer-focused.
Are you friendly, consistent, professional and calm under pressure? Do you like Starbucks? Present yourself like someone customers would trust. If not maybe consider a different job.
Promotion Potential
Starbucks offers structured advancement paths and many managers started as baristas. If you perform well, show leadership, and stay consistent, advancement is realistic even with a felony record.
Industry Insight: Corporate Chains
Corporate chains like Starbucks are much more ridged in who they will hire. The good thing about Starbucks is that they are more flexible than most large corporations which use;
- Standardized hiring systems
- Conduct background checks more consistently
- Have clearer internal policies
This makes them much more structured than franchise fast food chains and smaller employers.
What If You’re Denied?
- Apply at different companies. If one Starbucks says no then most likely all other locations will also.
- Build experience elsewhere
- Consider franchise-based restaurants
- Try applying to small business
How Starbucks Compares to Other Employers
| Employer | Felon-Friendly Level |
|---|---|
| Starbucks | Moderate |
| Subway | High |
| Taco Bell | High |
| Walmart | Moderate – Low |
Starbucks FAQ
Does Starbucks hire felons with recent convictions?
It depends on the offense and how recent it was. Recent violent or theft-related offenses may reduce chances.
Does Starbucks run background checks?
Yes, corporate-operated stores conduct background checks.
Can you become a manager at Starbucks with a felony?
It may be possible over time, but management roles typically involve more extensive screening.
Does Starbucks hire felons with drug charges?
Older, non-violent drug offenses may have better chances than recent violent or theft-related crimes.
Related Employer Information
If you’re applying to Starbucks, you may also want to review:
Fast Food Employers
Other Employers
Disclaimer
HelpForFelons.org is not affiliated with Starbucks. Hiring policies vary by location and may change at any time. This information is for educational purposes only and does not guarantee employment. Always confirm requirements directly with the location where you apply.