What You Need to Drive for DoorDash

The basic requirements to become a DoorDash driver

To drive for DoorDash, you must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name. DoorDash also requires a Social Security number to run a background check. You'll need a smartphone with the DoorDash driver app installed, and a bank account where DoorDash can deposit your earnings.

The vehicle itself doesn't have to be new or expensive. DoorDash accepts cars, motorcycles, scooters, and bicycles depending on your area. If you're using a car, it must be in working condition and pass a vehicle inspection that DoorDash arranges through a third party. The inspection checks that your vehicle is safe to operate and meets basic standards — things like working brakes, lights, and tires.

You can start the sign-up process on DoorDash's website or through the driver app. The company will ask for your personal information, driver's license number, vehicle details, and insurance information. After you submit these documents, DoorDash typically completes the background check within a few days, though it can take longer depending on your state.

Key Takeaways

• You must be 18 or older with a valid driver's license, current insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name to drive for DoorDash.
• DoorDash requires a background check, which means you'll need to provide your Social Security number and consent to a criminal history review.
• Your vehicle must pass a safety inspection arranged by DoorDash, checking for working brakes, lights, tires, and other basic mechanical safety features.
• You need a smartphone with the DoorDash driver app and a bank account to receive your pay, which DoorDash deposits after each shift or weekly depending on your settings.

Insurance and registration requirements

Your car insurance must be active and current. DoorDash requires proof of insurance before you can start driving, and you'll need to upload a photo or scan of your insurance card during sign-up. The insurance must cover you as the driver and the vehicle you're using. If your insurance lapses or you switch vehicles, you'll need to update your information in the DoorDash driver app.

Your vehicle registration must match the name on your driver's license. If you're driving a car registered to someone else, you won't be able to use it for DoorDash. The registration also needs to be current — expired registrations will cause your account to be deactivated until you update it.

DoorDash does not provide insurance coverage for you while you're driving. Your personal auto insurance is what protects you and any damage to your vehicle. Some personal insurance policies exclude commercial driving, so it's worth checking your policy or calling your insurance company to confirm you're covered while making deliveries.

Background check and approval process

DoorDash runs a background check on all new drivers. This check looks at your criminal history, driving record, and sex offender registry. The company uses a third-party screening service to conduct the check. You'll need to provide your Social Security number, and DoorDash will ask for permission to access your driving record from your state's motor vehicle department.

The background check typically takes three to five business days, but can take longer if there are delays with your state's records or if DoorDash needs to investigate something on your report. You'll receive an email when the check is complete. If you're approved, you can start accepting deliveries right away. If you're denied, DoorDash will tell you why and may give you the option to dispute the decision.

Certain criminal convictions, a suspended or revoked license, or multiple traffic violations can result in denial. DoorDash's specific standards change, so if you've had legal issues in the past, you can contact DoorDash support before applying to ask whether you'd be approved.

Vehicle inspection and safety standards

After you're approved, DoorDash arranges a vehicle inspection through a partner company. You'll receive instructions on how to schedule the inspection at a location near you. The inspection is free and usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The inspector checks your vehicle's brakes, lights, tires, windshield, mirrors, horn, and seatbelts to make sure everything is in safe working order.

Your vehicle must pass this inspection before you can start accepting deliveries. If it fails, you'll receive a report listing what needs to be fixed. Once you've made the repairs, you can schedule another inspection. Some issues — like bald tires or non-functioning brakes — will cause an immediate failure, while minor issues might give you a window of time to fix them.

Even after you pass the initial inspection, DoorDash may require periodic re-inspections depending on your vehicle's age and mileage. Keeping your vehicle well-maintained helps ensure you stay approved and avoid unexpected deactivation.

Age, license, and identity verification

You must be at least 18 years old to drive for DoorDash. Your driver's license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. DoorDash will verify your license information with your state's motor vehicle department during the background check process.

You'll need to upload a photo of your driver's license during sign-up. Make sure the photo is clear and the license is not expired. If your license expires while you're driving for DoorDash, you'll need to renew it and update your information in the app immediately, or your account will be deactivated.

DoorDash also verifies your identity using your Social Security number and personal information. This is standard for any company that needs to report your earnings to the IRS. If there's a mismatch between the name on your license, your Social Security number, and your bank account, DoorDash may ask you to clarify or may deny your application.

Bank account and payment setup

You need a bank account in your own name to receive payment from DoorDash. The account can be checking or savings. During sign-up, you'll provide your bank's routing number and your account number so DoorDash can deposit your earnings directly into your account.

DoorDash typically deposits your pay weekly, though you can also cash out your earnings more frequently through their Fast Pay feature, which charges a small fee per transfer. Make sure the bank account information you provide is accurate — if it's wrong, your deposits may fail and you won't receive your pay.

If you change banks or close your account, update your banking information in the DoorDash driver app right away. Delayed or failed deposits can happen if your account information is outdated.

Smartphone and app requirements

You need a smartphone — either iPhone or Android — to use the DoorDash driver app. The app must be installed and updated to the current version. Your phone needs to have GPS enabled so DoorDash can track your location and send you delivery requests in real time.

Your phone should have enough storage space for the app and reliable cellular or data service. If your phone dies or loses connection during a delivery, you may not be able to complete the order or communicate with the customer. Many drivers keep their phone charged and carry a portable charger while working.

DoorDash doesn't provide a phone or stipend toward a phone plan — you're responsible for your own device and service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive for DoorDash if I have a suspended license or traffic violations?

A suspended or revoked license will disqualify you. Multiple traffic violations may also result in denial, depending on how recent they are and how serious they were. Contact DoorDash support before applying if you're unsure whether your driving record will pass their review.

What happens if my vehicle fails the inspection?

You'll receive a report listing what needs to be fixed. You can schedule another inspection once you've made the repairs. Major safety issues like non-functioning brakes or bald tires require immediate repair, while minor issues may give you a timeframe to fix them.

Do I need commercial insurance to drive for DoorDash?

DoorDash requires active personal auto insurance, but doesn't require commercial coverage. However, some personal policies exclude commercial driving. Call your insurance company to confirm you're covered while making deliveries, or ask about adding a commercial rider if needed.

How long does the approval process take?

The background check typically takes three to five business days. The vehicle inspection can be scheduled within a few days of approval. In total, you may be ready to start driving within one to two weeks of submitting your application, though it varies by location and how quickly you complete each step.

Can someone else drive my car for DoorDash deliveries?

No. DoorDash requires that the vehicle be registered in your name and that you are the driver. You cannot let another person use your account or vehicle to make deliveries on your behalf.