Step 1 ...The first step is to submit an online expression-of-interest form. After approximately three weeks, if Chick-fil-A feels that you meet the initial criteria, you will be invited to complete an operator application form...

Step 2 Play an active role in your community. Chick-fil-A prefers that its franchise operators be people who are actively involved in community, religious and professional organizations.

Step 3 Plan to work full time in your restaurant. Chick-fil-A expects franchise operators to devote 100 percent of their working time to their restaurant. Operators should not have any other active business ventures...

Step 4 Play an active role in your church. Chick-fil-A's owners are devout Christians and expect all of their operators to share Christian values. Operators do not need to be Christian, but must be willing to close the restaurant on Sundays, espouse Christian values and be willing to participate in group prayers during training and management meetings.

Step 5 Be willing to undergo a very long vetting process. Some potential operators must undergo dozens of interviews over the course of a year or more before gaining approval. Chick-fil-A will also interview members of a potential operator's family.

Step 6 Disclose your marital status. Chick-fil-A...prefers franchise operators who are married and requires all candidates to be open about the state of their relationship.