How To Become A DoorDash Driver: Driver Requirements, Pay, Tips

The gig economy is growing, and DoorDash is still one of the easiest ways to make extra money on your own terms. Whether you need a flexible side job or a full-time income, DoorDash lets you work when and where you want.

But what does it actually take to become a DoorDash driver? What are the specific requirements, how much can you earn, and how can you make the most money while driving?

If you've been asking these questions, you're in the right place. This guide covers everything about becoming a DoorDash driver. It includes the requirements and tips to boost your earnings. It's the most complete and updated resource available.

DoorDash Driver Requirements: What You Need to Get Started

DoorDash offers a lot of flexibility in how you complete deliveries. Here’s a closer look at what you will need to get started.

Age Requirements

To drive for DoorDash, you need to be at least 18 years old in most states. This is due to specific state laws related to licensing and insurance. You must be at least 19 years old in these states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, Texas, Utah, and West Virginia. 

If you meet these requirements for your state, check that first box off.

Vehicle Requirements

Unlike Uber or Lyft, DoorDash allows a wider range of vehicles. It does not require a vehicle inspection. You can deliver using a car, scooter, motorcycle, or even a bicycle. In some cities, you can even deliver on foot.

There’s no required make, model, or year for your vehicle, which means you can use any car you have available. If you don’t have a car, DoorDash still allows you to earn money through bike or foot deliveries.

Licensing and Documentation

If you plan to deliver by car, motorcycle, or scooter, upload a valid driver's license and proof of auto insurance.. If you’re delivering on a bicycle or on foot, you’ll only need to upload a government-issued photo ID.

Once you’ve uploaded your documents, you’re one step closer to being a Dasher.

Background Check

Every DoorDash driver must pass a background check. The check looks at both your driving record and criminal history. DoorDash uses a third-party service called Checkr to review your background.

The process typically takes 5-7 days. However, it might be delayed for extra checks. Offenses such as recent DUIs or theft convictions can disqualify you from driving.

Smartphone Access

To deliver for DoorDash, you need a smartphone (iOS or Android) with the DoorDash Driver app. This app is crucial for accepting orders, navigating to customers, and checking earnings. Without a smartphone, you can't be a DoorDash driver.

Once you've met these requirements, you can apply.

How much do DoorDash drivers make?

One of the most common questions from prospective Dashers is, “How much can I actually make as a Dasher?” The answer depends on several factors, including your location, the hours you drive, and how strategic you are with your schedule. On average, most Dashers earn between $15 to $25 per hour. Some drivers earn less, while others figure out how to earn even more by taking advantage of high-demand times, customer tips, and promotional bonuses.

So, what’s the secret to earning on the higher end of that range? To answer that, let’s take a closer look at how Dashers get paid

How Dashers are paid

Unlike traditional hourly jobs, DoorDash drivers earn money on a delivery-by-delivery basis. DoorDash uses a three-part pay model to calculate how much you’ll make for each delivery. Here’s how it works.

1. Base Pay
2. Promotions
3. Tips

Each of these factors plays a role in determining how much you make on any given delivery.

Base Pay

Base Pay is the guaranteed minimum you’ll earn for each order, regardless of tips or promotions. Base pay typically ranges from $2 to $10 per order, and it’s calculated based on three factors:

• Distance: Longer deliveries have higher base pay.
• Time: Deliveries that take longer than usual (like waiting for a large order) may have higher pay.
• Desirability: Orders that other drivers aren’t accepting may receive higher base pay as an incentive.
  

For example, a 2-mile delivery from a fast-food restaurant may have a base pay of $3, while a 10-mile delivery from a sit-down restaurant might have a base pay closer to $7. DoorDash increases the base pay to entice drivers to accept longer or more time-consuming deliveries.

Promotions (How to Earn Extra Bonuses)

Promotions are one of the most exciting parts of DoorDash’s pay model. These bonuses are designed to encourage Dashers to work during peak demand times. There are two main types of promotions:

• Peak Pay: DoorDash pays a bonus on top of your regular delivery earnings during peak hours or high-demand periods. You might see a Peak Pay bonus of $1, $2, or even $5 extra per delivery. You’ll know it’s active when the Dasher app notifies you, and Peak Pay bonuses are shown at the top of the screen when you’re choosing delivery requests.

• Challenges: These promotions reward you for completing a specific number of deliveries within a set time frame. For example, you might earn an extra $20 for completing 15 deliveries in a weekend.

Example of how Peak Pay works:

Let’s say you’re delivering on a Friday night when DoorDash offers a Peak Pay bonus of $2 for every delivery. If you complete five deliveries during that time, you’ll earn an extra $10 ($2 x 5 deliveries) just for working during a peak period.

How to maximize Promotions:

• Drive during Peak Pay hours — Peak Pay periods usually occur during lunch (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and dinner (5 p.m. to 9 p.m.). Schedule your shifts during these high-demand times to stack your pay with promotions.
• Look for Weekend Challenges — Check the Dasher app at the start of each week to see if there are any active Challenges. Plan your schedule around them if possible.
  

Tips

Tips can significantly boost your earnings as a DoorDash driver, and you keep 100% of your tips. Unlike some other gig apps, DoorDash does not withhold any portion of the customer’s tip.

Tips can often be the difference between earning $15/hour and $25/hour. Customers typically tip based on the size of their order, the distance of the delivery, and the quality of the experience you provide. While not all customers tip, the ones who do often tip generously.

Tips for tips

• Provide great customer service — Send polite messages when you’re on your way or if there’s a delay. Customers are more likely to tip if they feel informed.
• Be professional and friendly — A smile, a friendly hello, and a “thank you” go a long way toward earning a better tip.
• Deliver on time — If customers receive their food faster than expected, they’re more likely to leave a positive review or tip higher.

Hidden Costs to Consider (Don’t Forget These!)

While DoorDash offers flexibility and the potential for great pay, there are hidden costs that new drivers often overlook:

• Fuel Costs: Since gas prices fluctuate, this is a major expense for drivers. Fuel-efficient cars or electric vehicles can reduce your costs.
• Car Maintenance: Routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake replacements is inevitable.
• Phone Data: DoorDash requires you to use your phone for navigation and order tracking, which means you’ll use up some data if you don't have an unlimited plan.
• Taxes: You're an independent contractor with DoorDash, so you're paid out on your gross earnings. Meaning no taxes are taken out. Taxes must be paid at the end of the year, or quarterly if applicable. To learn more about DoorDash taxes, check out our DoorDash Tax Guide
  

The good news? Many of these costs are tax-deductible if you track them properly. For example, by using the IRS mileage deduction rate you can reduce your taxable income by thousands of dollars each year. Apps like Everlance can track every mile automatically and provide a year-end tax report.

How to Get Started as a DoorDash Driver

If you meet the requirements and are ready to apply, the process to become a DoorDash driver is quick and straightforward. Here’s how to get started:

1. Apply Online: Visit DoorDash.com/driver to fill out the online application. You’ll need to provide your name, phone number, email, and location.
2. Upload Documents: Upload your driver’s license, proof of insurance (if applicable), and photo ID.
3. Pass the Background Check: DoorDash uses Checkr to review your driving record and criminal history. This typically takes 5-7 days.
4. Download the Dasher App: Once approved, you’ll download the Dasher app to accept delivery requests.
5. Start Dashing: Once the app is active, you can begin accepting orders and earning money.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dashing

Do I need a car to drive for DoorDash?
No. You can also use a bike, scooter, or walk in certain cities.

How long does it take to become a DoorDash driver?
The application takes 5-10 days, depending on the background check.

Do I have to pay taxes on DoorDash income?
Yes. Since you’re an independent contractor, you’ll need to pay quarterly taxes. You can track your mileage and expenses to lower your taxable income.

Becoming a DoorDash driver is one of the easiest ways to start earning money on your own schedule. With minimal requirements and a flexible pay model, you can start driving within a week. Whether you want a part-time gig or a full-time side hustle, DoorDash makes it easy.

To keep more of your money, use an app like Everlance to track mileage and expenses. This can save you thousands on taxes.