What you need to start delivering for DoorDash

To become a DoorDash driver, you need to be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that passes a background check. DoorDash will verify your identity and driving record before you can accept orders. The whole process typically takes three to five business days from the moment you submit your information.

You'll also need a smartphone with the DoorDash Driver app installed, a working phone number, and a bank account where DoorDash can deposit your earnings. The app works on both iOS and Android. You don't need a commercial license or special vehicle registration—a personal car, truck, or motorcycle counts as long as it's insured.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 18 or older with a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle to start the background check process.
  • DoorDash runs a driving record check and a criminal background check that can take three to five business days.
  • You need a smartphone with the DoorDash Driver app, a phone number, and a bank account to receive payments.
  • Once approved, you can turn the app on and off whenever you want—there are no shift requirements or minimum hours.
  • Your vehicle must have current insurance; DoorDash does not cover your personal vehicle while you are delivering.

The process and background check process

Start by visiting the DoorDash driver signup page or downloading the Driver app and selecting "Sign up to drive." You'll enter your name, email, phone number, and password. DoorDash will then ask for your driver's license number, date of birth, and the state where your license was issued.

Next, you'll upload a photo of your driver's license (front and back), proof of insurance, and a photo of your vehicle. The insurance document must show your name and current coverage dates. DoorDash accepts most standard auto insurance policies; you do not need commercial delivery insurance.

DoorDash will run a background check through a third-party company. This check includes your driving record and criminal history. The company looks for serious violations like DUIs, reckless driving, or major criminal convictions within the past seven years. Minor traffic tickets usually do not disqualify you. Once the background check clears, you'll receive an email saying you're approved to start delivering.

Setting up your payment method and bank account

Before you can cash out your earnings, you need to link a bank account to your DoorDash driver account. Go to the "Earnings" or "Account" section of the Driver app and select "Add bank account." You'll enter your routing number and account number. DoorDash deposits your money directly into this account.

DoorDash pays out your earnings weekly, usually on Wednesdays or Thursdays, depending on your bank. You can also use DoorDash's when ready cash-out feature to withdraw money the same day you earn it, though there is a small fee for each transaction. Check your bank's processing time—some banks take one to two business days to show the deposit.

How the DoorDash Driver app works

Once you're approved, read the DoorDash Driver app if you haven't already. Open it and log in with your email and password. The app shows a map of your area with available delivery orders. You can turn the app "online" to start receiving offers, or keep it "offline" when you don't want to work.

When an order comes in, you'll see the restaurant, the delivery address, the estimated distance, and the payout. You have a few seconds to accept or decline. After you accept, the app gives you directions to the restaurant, tells you what items to pick up, and then guides you to the customer's address. You take a photo of the delivery to confirm it's complete.

You control your own schedule—there are no required hours or shifts. Some drivers work full-time, others deliver a few hours a week. The app works best in areas with high order volume, so earnings vary by location and time of day.

What documents you'll need to keep on hand

Keep your driver's license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration in your car at all times while delivering. Police can ask to see these documents during a traffic stop. Your insurance must be active and current; if your policy lapses, you should stop delivering until you renew it.

You don't need to carry any special DoorDash paperwork. The app itself is your authorization to deliver. However, it's a good idea to take a screenshot of your approval email in case you ever need to show proof that you're an active driver.

Vehicle requirements and insurance considerations

Your vehicle must be in safe working condition—no major mechanical problems, broken lights, or safety issues. DoorDash doesn't inspect your car, but you could be deactivated if a customer reports safety concerns or if you're involved in an accident that suggests negligence.

Your personal auto insurance must cover you while you're delivering. Standard personal policies usually do cover delivery work, but some insurers exclude it. Call your insurance company and tell them you'll be using your vehicle for food delivery. Some insurers charge a small additional premium; others include it at no extra cost. Do not lie to your insurer about how you use your vehicle—if you're in an accident while delivering and your insurer finds out you didn't disclose it, they can deny your claim.

DoorDash's insurance does not cover damage to your vehicle, medical bills, or liability. It only covers DoorDash's own liability if you cause damage to a customer's property. You are responsible for your own vehicle maintenance, gas, and repairs.

How much you can earn and what affects your pay

DoorDash pays a base amount per delivery plus tips from customers. The base pay varies by location and order complexity—a short delivery in a busy area might pay $2 to $3, while a longer delivery could pay $5 to $8. Most of your earnings come from customer tips, which are added on top of the base pay.

Your actual hourly earnings depend on how many orders you can complete, how far you have to drive, and how much customers tip. In busy urban areas, drivers often report $15 to $25 per hour. In slower suburban or rural areas, it may be lower. Gas, vehicle wear, and maintenance come out of your pocket, so your true profit is less than your gross earnings.

DoorDash shows you the payout before you accept each order, so you can choose which deliveries to take. You're not required to accept low-paying orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the background check take?

Most background checks complete within three to five business days. Some take up to a week if DoorDash needs to verify information with your state's DMV. You'll receive an email once you're approved or if there's an issue.

Can I use a rental car or a car I don't own?

Yes, as long as the car is insured and you have permission from the owner. The insurance must cover you as the driver. If you rent a car, make sure the rental agreement allows commercial delivery work—some rental companies prohibit it.

What happens if I get into an accident while delivering?

Report it to your insurance company when ready. Your personal auto insurance covers the accident. DoorDash's insurance does not cover your vehicle damage. You should also report the accident to DoorDash through the app so they have a record, but your own insurance is your primary coverage.

Do I have to deliver every day or meet a minimum number of deliveries?

No. You can work whenever you want and take as many or as few orders as you choose. There are no minimum hours or delivery quotas. You can turn the app on and off as often as you like.

What if I'm deactivated from DoorDash?

DoorDash can deactivate your account if you have too many customer complaints, cancel too many orders, or violate their policies. You'll receive an email explaining the reason. Some deactivations are permanent; others may be temporary. You can contact DoorDash support to appeal, but there's no may provide they'll reinstate you.