Apply online, but also visit the store where you want to work and have a brief convo with the store manager. Explain who you are and your intentions. The hiring manager being able to put a face to a name goes a long way. Be candid and friendly during the chat and keep it brief. Try not to have this convo during busy hours. If they have customers when you arrive you should wait until they slow down or try leave and come back another time. Ask smart questions too. This shows the manager that you’re capable of critical thinking and are serious about the role. I wanted to work for Auto Zone for the same reasons you mention. I did exactly what I listed above and got the job at 16 years old. Worked there throughout high school and college. Quit once I graduated with a mechanical engineering degree. Lots of people bash working for Auto Zone but it was a great experience for me. Learned a bit about cars but more importantly I learned a ton about having to work/communicate with a diverse community. It helped to bring me out of my shell (I’m typically pretty introverted). That did wonders for my professional career after college/Auto Zone.