Can Carls Jr. waive the transferee's training requirements during a transfer?

According to the 2025 Carls Jr. Franchise Disclosure Document, Carls Jr. has the discretion to waive the training requirements for a transferee during a franchise transfer. Specifically, unless Carls Jr. waives this requirement, the transferee and their employees in designated positions must complete the training outlined in Sections 11.A.-B. of the franchise agreement.

This waiver provision offers flexibility in the transfer process. Carls Jr. may consider the transferee's prior experience, qualifications, and demonstrated competence in restaurant operations when deciding whether to grant a waiver. This could be beneficial for experienced operators looking to acquire a Carls Jr. franchise, as they may not need to undergo the standard training program if they already possess the necessary skills and knowledge.

However, it's important to note that the decision to waive training is at Carls Jr.'s sole discretion. A prospective transferee should not assume that a waiver will be granted. They should be prepared to complete the required training, even if they have prior experience in the restaurant industry. This ensures that all franchisees and their staff meet Carls Jr.'s standards for operation and service, maintaining consistency across the franchise system.