Can you work a government job with a felony?

Asked by: Holden Gutmann MD  |  Last update: May 3, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (38 votes)

Yes, you can work for the Federal Government if you have a criminal record and were formerly incarcerated. People with criminal records are eligible to apply to most federal jobs, however there are some exceptions.

Does the US government hire felons?

People with criminal records are eligible for employment in the vast majority of federal jobs. For a few positions, they may not be eligible because specific laws or statutes prohibit employment, depending on the crime committed.

Can felons work for local government?

Sadly most governments and public works automatically eliminate felons from consideration for employment. Many of the jobs may require contact with the public and local governments view employing a felon and as a risk.

What will disqualify you from federal employment?

Federal Employment Background Check Disqualifiers
  • Felony criminal convictions.
  • Arrests for serious misdemeanors.
  • Financial issues indicating irresponsibility.
  • Dishonesty on resumes or applications.
  • Serious mental health conditions.
  • Substance abuse.

Can you get government clearance with a felony?

A history of a criminal record is not automatically a disqualifier for a person applying for a security clearance unless the crime involved alcohol, drugs, firearms, explosives, or sexual conduct, according to Washington, D.C., law firm S.L. England.

Can a felon get a government job?

20 related questions found

What disqualifies you from a government clearance?

More specific conditions that may endanger your security clearance include: A history of deceptive or illegal financial acts like embezzlement, tax evasion, and fraud; Failure to satisfy your debts; and. Financial problems caused by gambling, drug abuse, or alcohol abuse.

What jobs can a felon not have?

They're typically restricted from credentials for occupations in the Department of Public Health's jurisdiction or in real estate, the distribution of drugs or pharmaceuticals, pest control, embalming and insurance sales.

Can I work for government with a criminal record?

An individual can work for the Federal Government if they have a criminal record. This is true even if they were formerly incarcerated. Individuals with criminal records are eligible to apply to most Federal jobs, however there are some exceptions.

What stops you from getting a government job?

To be hired for a federal job, you must undergo a basic background investigation of your criminal and credit histories. The government wants to ensure you are “reliable, trustworthy, of good conduct and character, and loyal to the United States,” which no doubt you are!

Does the USPS hire felons?

It is Postal Service policy to evaluate the employability of each applicant with a criminal conviction record individually. The fact that an applicant has a criminal conviction record is not sufficient to disqualify that applicant from postal employment.

Does the FBI hire felons?

FBI Eligibility

Be a U.S. citizen. Public record must be in good standing with no felony convictions. Adherence with FBI drug policy. Pass urinalysis and background investigation.

Can you be a government contractor with a felony?

The simple answer to your question is yes. Your felony conviction will not prevent you from starting a business or winning government contracts. The biggest issue you will have is if there is a need for a security clearance on the contract. City, county, and state contracts would be easier than federal.

Is it hard to pass a federal background check?

Discrepancies in your employment or education history, major financial problems, or even lying on your application can trigger a failed check. For jobs requiring security clearance, a history of drug use, financial instability, or even risky personal relationships can raise red flags.

Does the CIA hire felons?

Criminal or Unethical Behavior: We trust our employees to uphold the highest standards of conduct. Recent involvement in criminal or unethical behavior can disqualify you from getting a clearance. This includes pending criminal charges, felony convictions, and a dishonorable discharge.

Can a felon join the military?

Generally, felons and those with several convictions can't join the Army, but waivers are available in some cases. The offenses and moral behavior-related issues that cannot be waived include: If you are under civil restraint, including parole, confinement, or probation.

Can a felon get a passport?

Yes, a convicted felon can usually get a passport, but it depends on the felony and other factors: Felony typeSome felonies can automatically disqualify you from getting a passport, including: International drug trafficking Trafficking minors "Sex tourism" offenses Treason.

What government jobs can a felon get in the US?

felon friendly government jobs jobs
  • Military Service - U.S. Navy Search & Rescue. ...
  • Retail Store Key Holder. ...
  • UpSpire. ...
  • Military Service - U.S. Navy Reserve, Construction. ...
  • WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS OF TARRANT COUNTY. ...
  • Strengthen your profile. ...
  • Military Service - U.S. Air National Guard, Aircrew Flight Equipment. ...
  • Federal Air Marshal.

What would make you fail a federal background check?

Warning signs on a background check include multiple periods of unexplained unemployment, inconsistent information, short periods of employment, minimal relevant job experience, no required education or training, professional license issues, dangerous criminal convictions, job-related criminal convictions, bad ...

How to get a job with a felony conviction?

These are some tips you can use to find a job if you have a felony conviction on your record:
  1. Know the details of your background check. ...
  2. Specify your intent to discuss the felony during the interview. ...
  3. Be honest about your history. ...
  4. Seek out organizations that specifically provide opportunities.

What shows up on a background check for a government job?

The appointment of any civilian employee to a position in the Federal Government is subject to a background investigation. Examples of factors investigated with a background evaluation are an applicant's employment history, past illegal drug use, and previous records criminal.

Can you get a top secret clearance with a felony?

Any person convicted of a felony cannot obtain or renew a security clearance unless you are granted a waiver due to mitigating conditions of your conviction. These conditions include: Your criminal behavior and conviction are not recent. Your crime was an isolated incident.

Do felonies go away after 7 years?

Dismissed felony charges can usually be sealed or expunged right away. In California, a felony conviction stays on your record forever if you do not get it expunged. You may be eligible for an expungement if you did not serve time in state prison.

What states are felon friendly?

These Are the States Most Likely to Hire Former Felons
  • California.
  • Colorado.
  • Kansas.
  • Maryland.
  • Massachusetts.
  • Montana.
  • Nevada.
  • New Hampshire.

Why are felons not hired?

Employers' reluctance to hire such individuals may be prompted by law or by fear of litigation. Some occupations, such as those involving contact with children, are legally closed to people with felony convictions.