The Hells Angels has a formal membership process, not an open recruitment
The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club does not post job listings or accept walk-in inquiries. Membership requires an invitation from an existing member, a period of informal association with the club, and a formal vote by the chapter you wish to join. The process typically takes months to years and involves demonstrating commitment to the club's values, riding culture, and social expectations.
Unlike corporate organizations, the Hells Angels operates through a decentralized structure where each chapter makes its own membership decisions. There is no central process process, no headquarters you can contact, and no published timeline. What happens next depends entirely on your local chapter and whether any member chooses to sponsor you.
Key Takeaways
- Membership begins with an introduction from an existing Hells Angels member who is willing to vouch for you.
- You will spend time as a "hang-around" attending club events and building relationships before any formal consideration.
- Chapters vote on new members, and the decision is made by consensus or majority vote depending on the chapter's bylaws.
- The club expects members to own and ride a motorcycle, participate in club runs, and commit to the organization's code and brotherhood.
- Each chapter operates independently, so the process, timeline, and requirements vary significantly by location.
Finding a Local Chapter and Getting an Introduction
The first practical step is identifying the Hells Angels chapter nearest to you. Chapters are organized by geographic territory, and the club maintains a public list of chapters on its official website, organized by country and region. Once you know which chapter covers your area, you need to meet a member of that specific chapter who is willing to introduce you to the group.
This introduction typically happens through existing social connections—someone you know who already rides with the club, or a friend of a friend. Attending motorcycle events, rallies, and community gatherings where club members are known to congregate increases the chance of meeting someone who can make that introduction. The member who introduces you essentially vouches for your character and intentions, which carries weight in the club's culture.
Do not attempt to contact the club directly through social media or by showing up to a clubhouse unannounced. The Hells Angels views unsolicited contact as disrespectful and a misunderstanding of club protocol. The introduction must come through an existing member, and that member must be willing to sponsor your involvement.
The Hang-Around Phase and What It Means
After an introduction, you enter the informal "hang-around" phase. During this time, you attend club events, rides, and social gatherings as a guest of your sponsor. You are not yet a member and have no official status within the organization. This phase serves as a mutual evaluation period—the club observes whether you fit the culture, share the values, and can be trusted, while you determine whether the commitment and lifestyle align with what you want.
Hang-arounds are expected to show respect to members, follow club rules even though they do not yet explore to you formally, and demonstrate genuine interest in the motorcycle culture and brotherhood. This is not a casual social club; the Hells Angels has a strict code of conduct, and members take it seriously. You will be watched to see how you behave, how you treat other members, whether you can keep confidences, and whether you cause problems or drama.
The hang-around phase has no fixed length. Some people spend six months in this role; others spend two years or longer. There is no way to speed this up. The club will move forward only when members feel confident in you, and that confidence is built through repeated interaction and demonstrated reliability.
Sponsorship and the Formal Membership Vote
When members believe you are ready, your sponsor will formally nominate you for membership. This nomination is presented to the chapter, and a vote is held. The specific voting rules vary by chapter—some require unanimous approval, others require a straightforward majority, and some use a different threshold. The chapter president or leadership will explain the voting process if you reach this stage.
Before the vote, you will likely be asked to demonstrate your commitment in concrete ways. This might include purchasing club merchandise, attending a specific number of runs or events, or proving that you own an appropriate motorcycle. The club also expects you to understand and accept the club's rules, code of conduct, and the responsibilities that come with membership.
If the vote passes, you are offered membership. If it does not pass, you will be told that membership is not available at this time. There is no appeal process, and rejection does not necessarily mean you can never join—some people are asked to wait and try again later, while others are told membership is not a fit.
Motorcycle Requirements and Membership Costs
The Hells Angels requires members to own and ride a motorcycle. The club does not specify an exact brand or model, but there is a strong cultural preference for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, particularly larger cruiser models. Owning a motorcycle is a financial commitment separate from membership dues and club expenses.
Members pay dues to their chapter, which cover clubhouse operations, events, and organizational costs. The amount varies by chapter and is not published publicly. Beyond dues, members are expected to purchase club merchandise—patches, vests, shirts, and other items that display club affiliation. These purchases support the organization and are considered part of the membership commitment.
There are also costs associated with participation: travel to runs and events, fuel, maintenance on your motorcycle, and meals or accommodations during club activities. Membership is not free, and the financial commitment is ongoing.
Understanding the Club's Code and Expectations
The Hells Angels operates under a formal code of conduct that members must follow. The specific rules are not published, but they cover loyalty to the club above outside interests, respect for the chain of command, confidentiality about club business, and a commitment to defend the club's reputation and interests. Members are expected to attend mandatory meetings and events, participate in club runs, and contribute to the organization's activities.
The club also has rules about how members interact with law enforcement, how they conduct themselves in public, and how they handle disputes within the organization. Breaking these rules can result in fines, suspension, or expulsion. Membership is not a casual affiliation—it is a serious commitment with real consequences for violations.
The club's reputation and public perception matter to members. The organization has been involved in legal disputes, criminal investigations, and public controversy over its history. Prospective members should understand that joining means associating with an organization that law enforcement monitors closely and that has a complicated public image.
What Happens After You Are Voted In
Once you are voted in, you receive your official patches and colors—the vest or jacket with the Hells Angels insignia and your chapter designation. This is a significant moment in the membership process. You are now formally part of the organization and are expected to wear your colors to club events and rides.
As a new member, you will continue to learn the club's culture, history, and expectations. Experienced members will mentor you, and you will be integrated into the chapter's regular activities. You will attend meetings, participate in runs, and take on responsibilities within the organization. The club operates as a brotherhood, and your role is to contribute to that community.
Membership is ongoing and requires continued participation and commitment. If you stop attending events, paying dues, or following the club's code, your membership status can be reviewed. The club expects active, engaged members, not people who join and then drift away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can women join the Hells Angels?
The Hells Angels has historically been an all-male organization, and full membership remains restricted to men in most chapters. Some chapters have created associate or auxiliary memberships for women, but these are not the same as full membership. The specific policies vary by chapter and region.
What if there is no Hells Angels chapter in my area?
If your region does not have an established chapter, you cannot join the Hells Angels in that location. The club does not recruit or establish new chapters through prospective members. New chapters are created by the organization's leadership when they decide to expand into a territory, not by individuals requesting membership.
Do I need to have a criminal record to join?
No, a criminal record is not required. However, the club does conduct background checks on prospective members, and your history—both legal and personal—will be examined. The club is looking for people who are trustworthy and reliable, regardless of past circumstances.
How long does the entire process take from hang-around to full member?
There is no standard timeline. Some people become full members within a year; others take three to five years or longer. The club moves at its own pace and will not accelerate the process based on your preferences. Patience and consistent participation are required.
What if I want to leave the club after joining?
Members can resign from the Hells Angels, but the process and any consequences vary by chapter. Some chapters allow members to leave without incident; others have rules about how membership ends. You should understand the chapter's policies on resignation before you join.