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May Ask
(questions are job related)
Shouldn’t Ask
(questions are not job related)
National Origin
Are you legally eligible to work in the
United States? An applicant will be required
to verify this after the conditional offer is
made.
Inquiry into languages applicants speak or
write fluently, if it is a requirement of the
job.
Are you proficient in speaking and writing in
English? Should only be asked if asked of
all applicants.
Where were you born? Of what country are you a
citizen?
Is your last name German? You have quite an Irish
accent.
I see you speak Spanish. Did you learn that in your
native country or in school?
Finances
If an applicant is applying for a financial
position, you can let them know that a credit
check will be done after a conditional offer
has been made and give them a chance to
explain anything that might show up there.
Do you own your own home?
How long have you lived at your present address?
Have your wages ever been garnished?
Education/
Licenses
You are allowed to verify all credentials on
the applicant’s application or resume.
You may inquire if applicant has licenses
required
for the position (including driver’s
license). Licenses (including driver’s
license) can only be verified after a
conditional offer has been made.
Can I see your driver’s license?
When did you graduate from high school/college or
receive your degree?
Unions/
Organizations
You may ask about organizations the
applicant lists on his or her application or
resume. Including how he or she feels
membership in that organization would
benefit them in the position.
Are you a union member?
List all clubs, societies, and lodges to which you
belong.
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