Captain D's, LLC Franchise — Veteran Cost & Requirements (2026)
Quick-service seafood restaurants bringing quality fish, shrimp, and chicken to communities across America. A proven brand since 1969 with over 500 locations, offering a unique niche in the crowded fast food market.
Investment at a Glance
Military Fit Score
30-minute call. No pressure. No cost.
What Is Captain D's, LLC?
We offer 50% off the initial franchise fee and 1.5% off the royalty for 2 years.
As a Captain D's owner, you're running a fast-casual restaurant focused on quality seafood at accessible prices. Your typical day starts early, overseeing food prep, managing inventory, and ensuring your crew is ready for the lunch rush. You'll split time between front-of-house operations and back-office management. The business runs on a mix of dine-in and drive-thru traffic, with peak periods during lunch and dinner hours. Success depends on maintaining food quality, managing labor costs, and building a reliable team. You're not just selling food – you're operating a full-scale QSR operation with multiple revenue streams including catering and delivery services.
Quick Facts
Founded
2000
Franchising Since
2000
Total Locations
530
Headquarters
Tennessee
Location Type
Commercial Location
Semi-Absentee
No
SBA Approved
Yes
Captain D's, LLC Franchise Cost Breakdown (2026)
The total investment to open a Captain D's, LLC franchise starts at $898,600. Here's what that covers and what you'll need to qualify.
Investment Breakdown
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 | $35,000 |
| Real Estate | Note 2 | Note 2 |
| Building and Leasehold Improvements | $550,000 | $815,000 |
| Training Expenses | $25,000 | $46,000 |
| Equipment | $201,600 | $292,100 |
| Computer Systems | $25,000 | $34,100 |
| Inventory | $6,000 | $8,000 |
| Miscellaneous Opening Expenses | $5,000 | $9,000 |
| Insurance | $11,000 | $25,000 |
| Additional Funds - 3 Months | $40,000 | $90,000 |
Initial investment starts with a franchise fee of $35,000, which comes with a 50% discount for veterans. The total investment range runs from $898,600 to $1,354,200, covering everything from building costs and equipment to initial inventory and working capital for your first three months. Ongoing costs include a royalty of 4.5% of gross sales (reduced by 1.5% for veterans in the first two years) and an advertising fund contribution of 1%, which may increase to 2%. There's also a technology fee up to $236 monthly. During our consultation, we'll map out exactly what you need liquid and when you need it.
Beyond your initial investment, you'll pay a 4.5% of gross sales royalty on gross sales plus a 1.00% of gross sales (subject to increase up to 2.00%) marketing contribution. The true monthly cost of ownership includes additional fees most buyers don't account for until they're already in.
→ We break down your realistic monthly overhead during your consultation.
What Do Captain D's, LLC Franchise Owners Make?
Captain D's, LLC includes an Item 19 Financial Performance Representation in their Franchise Disclosure Document — which means they voluntarily share revenue and earnings data from their franchise system.
Not every franchise provides this level of transparency. The fact that Captain D's, LLC does tells you something about their confidence in franchisee performance.
But raw numbers don't tell the full story. What matters is how those numbers apply to your market, your investment level, and your operating model.
Want the Full Financial Picture?
We've analyzed Captain D's, LLC's FDD and can walk you through what the numbers actually mean for someone with your background and budget.
See If This Franchise Fits Your GoalsFree 30-min consultation. We earn nothing unless you find the right fit.
Why Veterans Succeed with Captain D's, LLC
Running a Captain D's means leading a team through high-pressure situations while maintaining quality and efficiency – sound familiar? The operational tempo matches what you're used to, with clear systems and procedures backing everything you do. This isn't a passive investment. It's hands-on leadership, team building, and problem-solving in real-time. You're responsible for everything from inventory management to crew training to customer satisfaction. The skills transfer is natural because the environment demands the same kind of decisive leadership and attention to detail you've already mastered.
Military Fit Analysis
Military Fit Score
Best Suited For
Former logistics specialists and food service personnel often excel here, but that's not the whole story. Anyone who's managed teams under pressure and handled complex operations can thrive. Experience with inventory management, staff training, and quality control directly applies to daily operations.
🎖️ Veteran & Military Discount
Captain D's, LLC participates in the VetFran program and offers a 50% discount on the franchise fee for qualified veterans, active duty, and military spouses.
We offer 50% off the initial franchise fee and 1.5% off the royalty for 2 years.
This discount applies to the initial franchise fee. Combined with SBA veteran loan programs and VA small business resources, your actual out-of-pocket investment could be significantly lower than the listed range.
→ We calculate your true cost — including available discounts, financing options, and veteran-specific programs — during your consultation.
Is Captain D's, LLC the Right Franchise for Your Background?
Every veteran's transition is different. Your MOS, leadership experience, and financial goals all factor into which franchise makes sense. We've helped veterans across every branch find franchise businesses that match their strengths — not just their budget.
Find Your Franchise FitTalk to a veteran franchise consultant who's been where you are.
Captain D's, LLC Training & Support
Provide counseling and advisory services for opening and operation, including equipment selection, employee training, and advertising.
Frequently Asked Questions About Captain D's, LLC
How much does a Captain D's, LLC franchise cost?
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Does Captain D's, LLC offer a veteran or military discount?
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Is Captain D's, LLC a home-based franchise?
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Can you run a Captain D's, LLC franchise semi-absentee?
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What do Captain D's, LLC franchise owners make?
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Is Captain D's, LLC a good franchise for veterans?
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What is Captain D's, LLC's FDD and where can I read it?
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Your Next Chapter Starts with a Conversation
You've done the research. You've looked at the numbers. Now the question is whether Captain D's, LLC — or one of 500+ franchises in our network — is the right fit for where you're headed.
In 30 minutes, we'll cover:
- Whether this franchise matches your skills & goals
- What the FDD reveals that most buyers miss
- Your true cost after veteran discounts & financing
- 2-3 alternative franchises worth comparing
Free. No obligation. Veteran to veteran.
Book Your Free Strategy Call