Trucking Companies That Hire Felons 2026: The Comprehensive List

Finding a trucking job with a criminal record is a numbers game. You might hear "No" twenty times before you hear "Yes." But the key is applying to the right companies.

In 2026, the driver shortage has forced many carriers to relax their hiring standards. We have categorized the major carriers into three tiers based on their openness to hiring drivers with felonies.

Disclaimer: Hiring policies change frequently based on insurance rates and driver demand. Always disclose your record upfront.

Tier 1: "Second Chance" Carriers (Most Lenient)

Target these if your conviction is less than 5 years old.

1. Western Express

• The Reputation: The "Last Resort" that becomes the "First Step."
• Policy: They hire almost anyone with a valid CDL, including those with recent felonies (even 0-3 years old), parole, or bad credit.
• The Catch: Pay is below industry average (often flatbed work involving hard labor), and equipment is older.
• Strategy: Work here for 12 months to build a clean driving history. After one year, you become eligible for Tier 2 companies.

2. Carolina Cargo

• Policy: Very open to hiring felons and those with spotty pasts.
• The Catch: Extremely long periods on the road (often 3-4 weeks out).

3. TransAm Trucking

• Policy: Generally accepts non-violent felonies immediately or after a short wait.
• The Catch: They heavily push their Lease-Purchase Program. We generally advise new drivers to be careful with leasing, but as a company driver, it's a solid option.

Tier 2: Moderate Carriers (5-10 Year Wait)

Target these if your conviction is 5 to 10 years old.

4. Swift Transportation

• Policy: Officially, they review on a "case-by-case" basis. Historically, they look for felonies to be at least 10 years old, but for non-violent/non-sexual offenses, they often waive this to 5-7 years.
• Pros: Huge training network, many terminals, decent starter pay.

5. Roehl Transport

• Policy: Requires 7 years from conviction date. Strict on "crimes of dishonesty" (theft, fraud) and violence.
• Pros: Excellent training program (GYCDL), good home time options.

6. Prime Inc.

• Policy: Typically requires a 7-year clean record. Very strict on drug-related offenses.
• Pros: High training pay, great equipment.

7. Maverick Transportation

• Policy: Case-by-case, but generally looks for 7+ years since release.
• Focus: Flatbed & Glass hauling. High pay for skilled drivers.

Tier 3: Strict Carriers (10+ Years or Lifetime Clean)

Do not apply here unless your record is ancient or expunged.

• Walmart Private Fleet: Requires an immaculate record.
• Old Dominion / FedEx / UPS: High-value cargo means strict insurance requirements.
• TMC Transportation: Very selective.

4. How to Handle the Interview (The "Own It" Strategy)

When a recruiter asks about your record, never lie.

1. The Pivot: Admit the mistake, then pivot immediately to what you have done since.
   • Bad: "It wasn't my fault, the cops set me up."
   • Good: "Yes, I was convicted of theft in 2019. Since my release, I have held a steady job for 2 years, completed my parole, and I am focused on building a safe career for my family."
2. Documentation: Have your parole officer's contact info ready. Have your "Certificate of Release" ready.
3. Appearance: Show up to the interview (or video call) looking professional. First impressions matter double for you.

Conclusion

Your career is not over. Thousands of drivers start at Western Express or TransAm, grind out a tough first year, and then move on to better jobs once their "trucking resume" outweighs their "criminal resume."

Get your CDL, keep your nose clean, and drive safe.

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