Last Updated: 02/21/2026
If you have a felony on your record and are thinking about applying to Subway, this guide will give you clear guidance and honest answers without hype or false promises often seen online.
Does Subway Hire Felons? (2026 Guide)
Quick Answer
Yes, Subway does hire felons, especially for entry-level sandwich artist positions but it depends on the specific location you apply to. Most Subway restaurants are independently owned franchises. That’s important. Local owners usually make hiring decisions, not a big corporate office. That will work in your favor if you have a felony – criminal record.
Getting hired is never guaranteed, but Subway is generally considered more flexible than many large retail chains like Walmart or Target. Subway operates over 20,000 locations in the United States, and nearly all are franchise-owned.
Subway Felon-Friendly Score™
44 / 50 – A VERY strong score. Subway is considered relatively felon-friendly compared to many large corporate employers. Hiring still depends on your situation and the specific store but chances are often good.
| Category | Score | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Industry Type (Fast Food) | 9/10 | High turnover and constant hiring needs. |
| Decentralized Hiring | 10/10 | Nearly all Subway locations are franchise-owned. |
| Background Check Policy | 9/10 | Many stores do not require strict background checks for entry-level roles. |
| Corporate Restrictions | 8/10 | Corporate influence is limited at the franchise level. |
| Second Chance Practicality | 8/10 | Entry-level positions often focus on reliability over background. |
Subway’s Hiring Structure
Subway is almost entirely franchise operated. Individual store owners make hiring decisions, not some flakey HR person.
What this means for you.
- Policies vary from store to store
- Some locations may run background checks while others will not
- The manager often has total discretion as to whether they will hire you or not
In simple terms, your chances depend more on the specific store owner than on Subway corporate headquarters. You can apply to Subway through their official careers page or directly in-store.
Does Subway Do Background Checks?
It depends on the location and the position. State laws can also affect how far back a background check can go.
Sandwich Artist / Crew Member
- Many locations focus on reliability and availability.
- Some stores run background checks.
- Others hire based on interview performance alone.
Management Positions
- More likely to require a background screening.
- Greater review of theft-related or recent offenses.
If your background check is run, managers usually look at:
- Type of offense
- How long ago it happened
- Whether it relates to the job
- Work history since conviction
What Convictions May Cause Problems?
Every location is different, but these felonies can be harder to overcome than others.
- Recent violent felonies
- Recent theft or fraud convictions
- Ongoing probation or unresolved charges
Older, non-violent offenses, especially drug-related charges are often less of a concern for entry-level roles. Time helps. The older the conviction, the better your chances.
Best Positions to Apply For At Subway
If you have a felony record, you should try applying for these positions.
- Sandwich Artist
- Food Prep
- Customer Service
- Shift Team Member
Avoid applying for store manager manager positions or jobs involving inventory control or financial oversight. Start at an entry-level position and prove your reliability. Promotions often follow performance.
What Should I Say in a Subway Interview if I Have a Felony?
Nothing unless you are asked. If they do ask, keep it short and simple. Overexplaining can hurt more than help.
You could say:
“I made a mistake in the past, took responsibility, and have worked steadily since then. I’m focused on moving forward.”
Keep it calm. Keep it confident.
What Subway Managers Actually Care About
Instead of focusing on your record, most managers care about the following traits.
- Will you show up on time?
- Will you quit after a couple days or are you a longer term employee?
- Can you handle busy lunch rushes?
- Are you polite to customers?
- Can you work weekends or evenings?
- Do you present yourself professionally?
If hiring you makes their job easier, your record becomes less important. Make it easy for them to say yes.
Example Interview Response
Manager asks: “Why do you want to work here?”
You say:
“I enjoy working in a fast paced environment and being part of a team. I like staying busy and helping customers. Plus I think subways has pretty good food”
Simple. Clear. Confident. And what they want to here.
Subway Hiring Readiness Checklist
Before you apply, take 60 seconds and be honest with yourself.
☐ My felony is non-violent
☐ My conviction is more than 2 years old
☐ I have worked since my conviction
☐ I can work nights, weekends, or closing shifts
☐ I can explain my conviction briefly without oversharing
☐ I am applying to multiple locations
What Your Score Means
5–6 checks: Strong chance at entry-level roles.
3–4 checks: Very possible, but apply broadly.
0–2 checks: Possible but you will need to connect really well with the hiring manager. Managers are not looking for perfection. They are looking for reliability.
Subway Pay Scale (Typical Ranges)
| Position | Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Sandwich Artist | $10 – $15 |
| Shift Lead | $13 – $18 |
| Assistant Manager | $16 – $22 |
| Store Manager | $40,000 – $65,000/year |
(Pay varies by state and local minimum wage laws.)
Honestly: Would You Hire Yourself?
If you want the job and want to grow, be the employee you would hire. Would you hire someone who shows up every day, works weekends, and stays two years? Show positive energy. Don’t look disengaged during the interview, ask questions and be interested.
Promotion Potential
Fast food often offers clear advancement paths based on performance, Subway is no different. Many managers started as sandwich artists.
If you show up consistently, work hard, and stay reliable, promotion is realistic. That’s one reason fast food remains a strong re-entry industry point for felons.
Industry Insight: Why Fast Food Can Be Felon-Friendly
The restaurant industry has a lot of problems to be honest. It can be a difficult job but that creates opportunity for you!
- High turnover
- Constant hiring needs
- Strong demand for dependable workers
Managers often care more about the following skills.
- Showing up on time
- Working busy shifts
- Team attitude
- Customer service
If hiring you makes their life easier, your record may not be a deal breaker.
What If You’re Denied?
If one Subway location says no, apply to another. Every Subway franchise owner is different. One “no” does not mean all Subway stores will say no. You can also check out our jobs page for additional opportunities.
How Subway Compares to Other Employers
| Employer | Felon-Friendly Level |
|---|---|
| Subway | High |
| McDonald’s | Moderate-High |
| Walmart | Moderate |
| Taco Bell | High |
Fast food is generally more flexible than large retail chains with centralized HR screening.
Subway FAQ
Some Subway locations run background checks, while others do not. Policies vary by franchise owner and state law.
It depends on how recent the conviction is and the position you’re applying for, but generally speaking you have a good shot at getting hired. Theft-related offenses may be reviewed more closely, especially for roles involving cash handling.
Yes, many Subway locations are more flexible with older drug-related convictions, especially for entry-level roles.
It is possible. Many managers start at entry-level positions. However, management roles may involve background screening and additional review.
Related Employer Information
If you’re applying to Subway, you may also want to review:
Fast Food Employers
Retail Employers
Fast food typically offers more flexibility than centralized retail hiring systems.
Disclaimer
HelpForFelons.org is not affiliated with Subway or any Subway franchise owner. 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.