Tesla hiring felons: What you need to know about their hiring policy

When you hear Tesla hiring felons, Tesla’s policy of considering job applicants with criminal records. Also known as second chance hiring, it’s part of a broader shift in how major companies approach background checks. This isn’t about ignoring past mistakes—it’s about giving people a real shot at rebuilding their lives through work. Tesla doesn’t have a public policy that says "we hire all felons," but they also don’t have a blanket ban. Their approach is case-by-case, which is more common than you think among large employers trying to reduce recidivism and fill hard-to-fill roles.

What matters most to Tesla isn’t just the conviction—it’s the time passed, the nature of the offense, and what the person has done since. A non-violent offense from 10 years ago? Much more likely to be overlooked than a recent theft or fraud. Roles in manufacturing, logistics, or warehouse operations often have fewer restrictions than engineering or customer-facing positions. And while Tesla doesn’t advertise this as a "program," they’ve been quietly hiring people with records for years, especially in places like Nevada and Texas where labor shortages are real. This isn’t charity—it’s smart hiring. Companies like Amazon, Walmart, and Home Depot do the same. The difference? Tesla’s brand is so visible that when they hire someone with a record, it gets noticed.

What you won’t find is a list of "approved" crimes. There’s no checklist. Instead, Tesla relies on third-party background check firms that flag risks, then human reviewers make the final call. They look at rehabilitation: did the person complete parole? Get certified in a trade? Stay employed? Volunteer? These aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re deal-breakers. If you’ve served time, the best thing you can do is get certified in something technical: forklift operation, basic electrical systems, or even a short course in robotics. Tesla values skills over past mistakes—if you can prove you’re reliable, they’ll give you a chance.

Don’t assume you’re automatically disqualified. Many people with records never even apply because they think they won’t get hired. That’s the real barrier—not Tesla’s policy, but the myth around it. The truth? You can walk into a Tesla facility, fill out an application, and if your skills match the role and your record isn’t a red flag, you’ll get an interview. It’s not easy, but it’s possible. And if you’re looking for a job that pays well, offers benefits, and doesn’t ask you to hide your past, Tesla is one of the few companies that actually lets you move forward without a permanent scar.