Does Instacart Hire Felons? A Complete Guide to Instacart's Background Check

If you have a felony on your record, you might be wondering if a gig job like Instacart will give you a chance. 

Let me cut straight to the answer: Instacart does not have a blanket policy against hiring felons. 

They've hired people with criminal records before, but they evaluate each applicant on a case-by-case basis, considering factors like the type of offense and how long ago it happened.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Instacart doesn't explicitly bar felons from working with them. 

That said, their background check is thorough, and any criminal history will be evaluated during the hiring process.

In this guide, I'll walk you through Instacart's background check process, what might disqualify you, real stories from felons who've applied, how Instacart compares to other gig apps, and tips to improve your chances of getting approved.

Instacart's Hiring Policy & Background Check for Applicants with Records

Background Check Overview

Every Instacart shopper must pass a background check before they can start working. 

Instacart partners with third-party companies - typically Sterling for identity verification and Checkr for criminal history checks.

During the application process, you'll need to provide personal information including your Social Security number and driver's license. 

The background check examines both your criminal history and driving record, which makes sense since full-service shoppers drive to deliver groceries.

The typical background check process takes between 2-10 days, with most applications clearing within 5 business days. 

If yours takes longer, it might be because they found something that needs further review.

Instacart generally looks at the past 7 years of your criminal record, though this can vary by state and by the severity of offenses. 

Some states limit reporting to 7 years, but violent or sexual convictions might still be considered even if they're older.

Pending charges will also appear on your background check and could lead to disqualification. 

Instacart might put your application on hold if you have an open case.

The background check specifically covers:

• Criminal records (felonies & misdemeanors) nationwide

• Driving records (DUIs, suspensions, at-fault accidents)

• Sex offender registry check

• Identity verification (SSN trace)

Unlike some jobs, Instacart doesn't typically run a credit check for shoppers.

Can You Work for Instacart with a Felony? (Case-by-Case Factors)

Yes, you can potentially work for Instacart with a felony, if the company determines your situation poses a low risk. Here are the main factors they consider:

Time since conviction: The older your felony, the better your chances. Many sources suggest a 5-7 year gap as an unofficial threshold. 

According to our research, Instacart has considered individuals "given that the transgressions did not occur within the last five years." 

If your conviction happened recently (within the last few years), approval becomes much more difficult.

Nature of the felony: Instacart distinguishes between non-violent and violent offenses, minor drug charges versus serious theft, etc. 

They're most wary of violent crimes, sexual offenses, major theft/fraud, and serious drug trafficking charges. 

If your felony was something like drug possession or an old non-violent offense, Instacart might be more lenient.

Relevance to the job: A felony DUI or multiple driving offenses directly impacts a delivery job, so Instacart will likely disqualify someone with a recent DUI since driving is fundamental to the role. 

But a felony that doesn't suggest risk to customers or property (like an old tax fraud conviction) might be viewed differently.

Repeat offenses: Someone with a single incident from long ago looks better than someone with multiple convictions. 

If you have a pattern of offenses, Instacart may see that as too high a risk.

Evidence of rehabilitation: Instacart's process allows you to explain any hits on your background check. 

Showing rehabilitation (reference letters, steady employment, volunteer work, etc.) can sway them in your favor. 

An applicant who can demonstrate they've changed (completed parole successfully, took rehabilitation classes, etc.) will fare better than one who cannot.

In summary, Instacart doesn't automatically reject felons, but they weigh these factors heavily. 

It's ultimately a judgment call by Instacart's hiring team after reviewing your background report.

Offenses That Will Disqualify You

While Instacart hasn't published an official list of disqualifying offenses, certain felonies almost always lead to denial:

• Violent felonies (murder, attempted murder, aggravated assault) – Instacart will deny these to protect customer safety

• Sexual offenses or sex offender status – crimes like rape, sexual assault, or offenses involving minors are automatic disqualifiers

• Robbery/Burglary or major theft – if you have a history of stealing, they likely won't trust you with customers' purchases or personal information

• Felony drug distribution (selling or trafficking large amounts) – signals potential for illegal activity on the job

• Repeat DUI or serious driving offenses – a single old DUI might be okay, but multiple or a felony DUI (especially if recent or involving injury) will disqualify you

• Fraud/identity theft – handling customers' payment info means someone with a fraud conviction might be seen as a risk

Even some misdemeanors can disqualify you if they fall into these categories. A recent misdemeanor assault or theft might be treated seriously.

According to legal resources, being on the sex offender registry will typically disqualify an Instacart applicant.

How Far Back the Check Goes

Instacart mostly checks the last 7 years of your history. If you have a conviction older than 7 years, you might be in luck depending on your state. 

California, New York, and several other states have laws that generally don't show convictions older than 7 years on background checks for gig jobs.

However, some jurisdictions or certain types of checks might reveal older records, especially federal crimes or if you're in a state with no time limit.

Many felons with older records have reported passing because their records didn't appear due to the 7-year rule. 

But I should caution you: gig jobs often re-run checks annually, so even if something is just past 7 years now, it could appear if they ever do an unlimited re-check or you move states.

If your felony is very old (10+ years) and you've stayed clear of trouble, your chances are quite good. Sources suggest that when more than ten years have passed, Instacart is more likely to hire someone despite a past felony.

Instacart's Official Take (Equal Opportunity Employer)

Instacart's Code of Conduct states they evaluate applicants fairly without discrimination, noting they are "an equal opportunity employer and we do not tolerate discrimination against applicants... based on … criminal history (in accordance with applicable law)."

This means Instacart will not automatically disqualify someone for having a criminal record – they've even stated they give individuals the opportunity to address background check issues that arise.

In practical terms, if something flags on your check, they won't immediately ban you; you will likely get a notice and a chance to explain or submit additional information (which we'll discuss in the appeals section).

This built-in procedural fairness gives applicants with records a chance to make their case.

Handling the Background Check: Tips for Applicants with a Record

Be Transparent & Honest on the Application

Don't lie if asked about your criminal history. 

While Instacart's process might not explicitly ask upfront (some apps only rely on the background check), if there is any question or opportunity to self-disclose, do it.

The reason is simple: If you lie and something comes up, you're automatically rejected for dishonesty. 

If you disclose, you at least have the chance to explain the circumstances. 

As one hiring resource notes: "If there is something worth mentioning in your history, it's best to be honest and upfront. If you've lied... it'll be automatically rejected."

Also remember that under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), Instacart must get your consent for the background check, and you have rights to see the report and dispute inaccuracies. 

So honesty coupled with knowing your rights is key.

Prepare Any Mitigating Documentation

Gather these materials before or during the application process:

• Reference letters from former employers, mentors, parole officers, etc., attesting to your good conduct now. A Reddit success story confirms this works: one applicant's friend with felony convictions was initially denied but had the opportunity to submit mitigating information, including letters of reference and evidence of recovery, and was eventually approved.

• Certificates or evidence of rehabilitation – completion of a rehabilitation program, anger management course, GED, or any positive achievements post-conviction.

• A personal statement – Instacart may allow you to submit an explanation if something comes up. Have a concise, honest explanation of your conviction and how you've changed ready to go.
  If eligible, get your record expunged or sealed before applying. If your record is expunged, legally the background check might not show the conviction at all. As the National Institute of Justice noted, expunging a criminal record "can help open the door to a second chance at life."

• Check your state's Clean Slate laws – several states automatically clear certain records after specific time periods – if your record could be cleared, that's the ultimate preparation.
  
  
  
  

What to Do if You Get a Pre-Adverse Action Notice

Under the FCRA, if a background check finds something that might disqualify you, you'll receive a "pre-adverse action" email with the report, giving you a short window to respond before final denial.

If Instacart is considering rejecting you due to your background, use this opportunity to appeal by contacting Instacart or Checkr to dispute inaccuracies or present your case.

How to Appeal a Background Check Denial

1. Review the report for errors. Mistakes happen (records that aren't yours, or that should have been expunged). If anything is wrong, immediately file a dispute with the background check company (Checkr) – they have a process to reinvestigate.
   If the record is correct but you have context, provide it. Follow the instructions in Instacart's notice to submit an explanation or supporting documents. Be ready to email Instacart's support or follow the specific process they outline.

2. Be professional and clear in explaining how old the offense is, how you've rehabilitated, and why it won't affect your job performance. Include your evidence without rambling.

3. Follow up – After you send an appeal, be patient but check status if you don't hear back in 7-10 days. Checkr allows you to see your check status online as well.

Success is possible. 

One Instacart applicant shared that after being initially denied, she appealed with reference letters and Instacart reversed the decision, allowing her to work.

However, not all appeals succeed. 

Another person appealed with solid documentation (including evidence of clean drug tests and good work performance at their current job), but still didn't qualify. 

If your appeal fails, it's not the end of the road – you can try other gig apps.

Consider Alternative Roles or Apps

If Instacart says no, don't give up on gig work:

• Other delivery apps: DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, Shipt, etc. "A denial from one doesn't mean you'll get denied on another." Cast a wide net by applying to multiple services.

• In-store shopper roles: Instacart has not only contractor drivers but also in-store employee roles (in some regions) that might have slightly different hiring criteria. If your felony was driving-related, maybe an in-store only role (no driving) could be possible.

• Non-delivery gig options: Consider platforms like TaskRabbit or local gig jobs that might be more felon-friendly. Some felons find success with moving jobs, handyman gigs, etc., which sometimes don't require background checks if done independently.

Keep a Clean Record Moving Forward

Once you're in (or while applying), it's crucial to avoid any further legal trouble:

• Instacart (and many apps) re-run background checks periodically (often annually) on active shoppers. If you get a new charge after being hired, you could be deactivated in the next yearly check.

• Maintaining a clean record is not just good life advice, it's necessary to keep the gig.

• Drive safely (no new tickets or DUIs) because one can be deactivated for those if they appear on a refreshed driving record check.

Your second chance is contingent on continued good behavior. 

Think of it as an ongoing commitment, not just a hurdle to clear once.

Success Stories & Challenges of Felons Working for Instacart

Real Stories of Felons at Instacart

One Instacart shopper, who we'll call Alice, shared her story: She had a felony conviction for a non-violent offense from 5 years prior. 

She applied to Instacart, and after a background check review, she was initially denied. 

However, she appealed the decision by submitting reference letters from her employer and counselor attesting to her rehabilitation. 

Instacart reversed their decision, and she's been delivering for over a year now, with excellent customer ratings.

Another case involved a man in his late 30s in an Instacart shopper community who had a felony drug conviction in his 20s. 

Instacart saw the record during his background check, but still hired him, and he now uses Instacart as his main source of income. 

This shows that a drug felony from 15+ years ago wasn't a deal-breaker for Instacart.

Common Challenges Felons Face on Gig Platforms

Beyond just getting hired, felons face several ongoing challenges on gig platforms:

• Emotional stress: The waiting period for background check results can be anxiety-inducing for those with records. It's nerve-wracking – some felons describe checking the app daily to see if they're approved or not.
  Stigma: Even if Instacart approves you, you might worry about customers finding out or judging (though customers don't see your background). A Reddit thread showed some customers have strong opinions about felons delivering their groceries. Rest assured that your criminal history isn't public to customers, but maintaining professionalism helps avoid any complaints.

• Inconsistent outcomes: It can feel like a lottery – one felon gets in, another doesn't, which is frustrating. Try not to take it as a personal condemnation; sometimes it's just policy or even error. That's why trying multiple platforms is key.

• Being suddenly deactivated: A poster on Indeed said Instacart hired them despite a pending misdemeanor, only to drop them once that charge showed up – describing Instacart's attitude as "guilty before proven innocent." This highlights the challenge of dealing with a system that might not wait for legal resolution. Always have a backup plan or second app (like multi-apping with DoorDash) so you're not left with no income if one deactivates you.
  
  
  
  

How Instacart Could Improve

Advocates for fair-chance hiring suggest gig companies like Instacart should consider the individual rather than the record alone. 

For example, if an offense is old and the person has had no incidents since, many believe companies should give that person a shot. 

Some states even legally require considering factors like rehabilitation.

Instacart might benefit from joining programs like Checkr's "Fair Chance" hiring pledge, which would formalize their commitment to hiring qualified applicants with records. 

Such programs can provide guidance on best practices for evaluating candidates with criminal histories fairly.

Comparing Instacart with Other Gig Apps for Felons

Instacart isn't your only option. Many gig economy companies have similar background check policies. Here's how Instacart stacks up against DoorDash, Uber Eats, Shipt, and others when it comes to hiring applicants with criminal records.

DoorDash

DoorDash has no explicit ban on felons and uses Checkr for background checks, just like Instacart. Their requirements include having a valid license and passing the background check.

Felons can drive for DoorDash – one DoorDash driver on Indeed reported being a 4-time felon who drove for the company for 3 years. 

Another commenter mentioned that DoorDash focused primarily on their driving record rather than their criminal history, suggesting that if your felony wasn't driving-related and was a long time ago, DoorDash might approve you.

However, violent felonies would likely still cause denial, as DoorDash also has to protect its brand and customers.

In summary, DoorDash seems similar to Instacart in its approach, possibly slightly more open since we've seen examples of people with multiple felonies getting approved, but each case is still evaluated individually.

Uber Eats

Uber Eats follows Uber's unified background check policy, which tends to be stricter than some other gig apps. 

If a felony is on your record within the past 7 years, Uber likely will deny your application. Their policy for drivers typically disqualifies applicants with felonies less than 7 years old.

Some felons report being turned down by Uber even when other apps hired them. This could be because Uber has more brand liability concerns, making them potentially stricter.

However, if your felony is beyond the 7-year mark and was non-violent, some felons have been approved for Uber Eats. 

Uber's check will also flag pending charges; they typically won't hire until legal matters are resolved.

Overall, Uber Eats is a maybe, but likely tougher than Instacart. 

Felons might want to try Instacart or DoorDash first, then Uber Eats if their record is older and they've stayed clean since.

Shipt

As a direct Instacart competitor (with the same job function), Shipt uses a similar background check process through Checkr. 

We found anecdotal evidence of felons being approved to work with Shipt.

Target (Shipt's owner) has made public commitments to second-chance hiring in their stores, which might extend to Shipt as well. 

The disqualifying factors are likely similar to Instacart – violent crimes, sexual offenses, recent theft, etc., would probably lead to denial.

Amazon Flex & Others

Amazon Flex: Many felons report being able to work for Amazon Flex if their felony is 7+ years old or was minor. 

Amazon is known to be "positive about hiring felons" for entry-level roles, especially if the conviction was long ago. 

For Flex (driving), they'll check your record similarly to Instacart. If you cleared Instacart's criteria, you likely can clear Amazon's, and vice versa.

FedEx/UPS: Though not gig apps, these companies are worth mentioning for delivery work. UPS has publicly stated they consider felon applicants (with exceptions for certain crimes). FedEx contractors have hired felon drivers in many cases. 

They typically reject applicants with violent/sexual offenses but may be open to those with other records.

Other rideshare (Lyft): Probably not an option, since Lyft is as strict as Uber if not more.

Rideshare (transporting people) is usually off-limits for felons until enough years have passed or the record is cleared.

Other gig types: Postmates (now merged with UberEats), Grubhub (similar to DoorDash), and Walmart Spark (Walmart's delivery app) all have similar policies. 

Spark likely mirrors Walmart's background check criteria, which historically has hired felons for store jobs depending on the offense.

The key takeaway is that if Instacart says no, you have other avenues. 

Companies can differ in their approach – some felons report being accepted by one app but rejected by another, so it's worth trying multiple platforms.

Second-Chance Hiring Environment in the Gig Economy

Companies hiring felons can benefit from the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), which offers businesses up to $2,400 for hiring an ex-felon within a year of their release. 

This creates a financial incentive for gig companies to consider second-chance hiring.

Many states and cities have enacted "Ban the Box" and Fair Chance laws that prevent companies from asking about criminal history on initial applications, forcing them to consider qualifications first. For example, Los Angeles has a Fair Chance Initiative that covers gig companies – Uber and others must comply there.

Thousands of people with records are working in the gig economy, though exact numbers aren't publicly available. 

Most companies try to strike a balance between giving second chances and ensuring safety. 

As more attention is brought to fair chance hiring, we might see these platforms become more transparent or lenient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Instacart hire felons?

Yes, Instacart can hire felons. They have no blanket ban; each applicant is considered individually based on factors like type of felony and how long ago it occurred. 

They've hired people with felonies (especially older, non-violent ones), but recent serious convictions will likely prevent you from getting the job.

What background check company does Instacart use?

Instacart uses Sterling and Checkr to run background checks. These checks include criminal and driving history verification.

How long does the Instacart background check take?

Usually 2-10 days. Most applications clear within 5 business days; if it takes longer, it could be because they found something that needs review. 

You can check the Checkr portal for status updates if your check is delayed.

Can I do Instacart with a DUI?

It depends on how recent and severe. A single misdemeanor DUI from years ago might be overlooked, but a felony DUI or multiple DUIs will likely disqualify you. 

Keeping a clean driving record is crucial for delivery work.

Does Instacart hire people with misdemeanors?

Yes, Instacart hires people with misdemeanors. However, a serious misdemeanor (like a violent offense or theft-related crime) can still cause denial. 

The evaluation logic is similar to felonies: case-by-case, with severity being a key factor.

What can I do if Instacart rejects me due to my background?

You can appeal the decision by contacting support and providing evidence of rehabilitation, or apply to other gig apps. 

Different companies have slightly different standards, so rejection by one doesn't mean rejection by all.

Conclusion: Moving Forward

Getting work with Instacart as a felon is possible – many have done it – but it requires patience and honesty. 

Don't limit yourself to just Instacart; explore the other opportunities mentioned in this guide.

A past mistake doesn't have to define your future. 

Instacart and other gig platforms do give second chances – and with the tips in this guide, you can put your best foot forward in the application process.