Frequently asked franchising questions

All franchise candidates must complete our training program before purchasing a restaurant. Training generally lasts 6 to 12 months and can be completed part-time.

If I am interested in a specific area, how can I find out what is available for sale?

McDonald’s works closely with every franchise candidate to help ensure they find the right opportunity at the right time. However, since McDonald’s cannot predict which restaurants will be available when training is complete, our candidates must be flexible about restaurant opportunities. We do not franchise territories or work with applicants who desire a specific restaurant location or a limited geographic area

Can I select the site and build my own McDonald’s? What if I own the property?

McDonald's does not develop new restaurant locations with the intent of issuing the franchise to a specific individual. If you own property and are interested in selling it or leasing it to McDonald's, please visit the Real Estate section of our website for more information.

I would like to invest in McDonald’s with a partner. Do the requirements change for a partnership?

McDonald's does not allow franchise partnerships or investors at this time. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis, at McDonald's sole discretion, by the Franchising Officer.

Can I buy a McDonald’s restaurant with my family, such as siblings, cousins, parents, etc.?

McDonald's does not allow franchise partnerships, including sibling partnerships. Exceptions may be made on a case-bycase basis, in McDonald's sole discretion, by the Franchising Officer. Your family members may, however, be employed by you in the business.

Can I buy a franchise for my son or daughter?

No, McDonald's franchise applicants must apply individually and must have the required minimum non-borrowed personal resources.

How much does a McDonald’s franchise make?

Profitability depends on many factors, including operating and occupancy costs, financing terms, and a Franchisee's ability to operate the business effectively.

Is there an opportunity to acquire more than one McDonald’s restaurant?

McDonald's is an equal opportunity franchisor by choice. We seek individuals who are capable of operating multiple locations. Candidates who have successfully operated multiple businesses may be suited to operating several 
 McDonald’s franchises.

What is the availability of McDonald’s restaurants in my area?

The availability of McDonald's restaurants in specific areas will be discussed during your initial interview. McDonald's cannot predict which restaurants will be available when your training is complete. Flexibility to relocate for a restaurant opportunity will likely be required. Available restaurants typically come from normal transitions within the system, such as existing Franchisees retiring, pursuing new opportunities, or growing their portfolios. As a new Franchisee, you’ll step into an established restaurant and community with the potential for growth and a clear opportunity to lead and make an impact.

I have a piece of property that would be ideal for a new McDonald’s restaurant; will McDonald’s develop the site and award the franchise to me?

McDonald’s handles site selection separately from franchise selection. We evaluate locations, acquire the property, and build the restaurant before awarding the franchise to the most qualified candidate. If you have property that you are interested in selling, please contact us at the McDonald’s real estate site.

How can I acquire a new McDonald’s restaurant location?

In nearly all cases, new restaurant locations are franchised to existing McDonald’s Franchisees.