DoorDash is one of the largest platforms in the modern gig economy, providing individuals the opportunity to earn income by delivering food and other items. The role, known as a Dasher, offers flexibility, allowing contractors to set their own hours. Understanding the specific requirements to qualify as a Dasher is the first step toward independent work. This guide outlines the necessary prerequisites, including age limits, vehicle, and documentation standards.
The Official Minimum Age Requirement
The minimum age requirement to become a Dasher is 18 years old. This age minimum is necessary for an individual to legally enter into an independent contractor agreement, regardless of the delivery method chosen. While 18 is the standard across most areas, some locations, including states like Texas, Florida, and Arizona, require a minimum age of 19 due to regional regulations. Applicants must provide a valid government-issued ID during the sign-up process to verify their age.
Key Eligibility Requirements Beyond Age
Once the age requirement is met, applicants must satisfy several other conditions related to legal standing and transport. A Dasher must possess a valid Social Security Number and have an active bank account to receive earnings. If delivering by car, the applicant must hold a valid domestic driver’s license and maintain personal auto insurance, which is required by law.
The platform accepts any reliable car in working condition. DoorDash also mandates a background check for all applicants. This check screens for both criminal and driving history, ensuring new Dashers meet safety and reliability standards.
Navigating the Application and Screening Process
The sign-up process begins with an online application where prospective Dashers enter basic information and submit documentation. This documentation includes a photo of a government-issued ID and a driver’s license if using a motor vehicle. The most time-intensive part is the mandatory background check, conducted by a third-party agency like Checkr.
The background check reviews the applicant’s driving record for major moving violations and examines their criminal history, looking back over the past seven years. Most checks are completed within 5 to 10 business days, but the timeline can vary based on application volume or delays in accessing local court records. Applicants can monitor the status through the Checkr candidate portal.
Specific Requirements Based on Delivery Method
DoorDash allows flexibility in transportation methods, though requirements differ based on vehicle type and location. Car delivery is the most common option and requires a valid driver’s license, vehicle registration, and active auto insurance. The platform does not impose specific model or age requirements, allowing any reliable car to be used.
In dense urban areas, DoorDash permits delivery via alternative methods like bikes, scooters, or e-bikes. These options bypass the need for a driver’s license, registration, and auto insurance. However, the minimum age requirement of 18 remains in effect regardless of the delivery vehicle. Local regulations dictate which transportation methods are available in a given area.
Understanding Payments and Earnings
The Dasher payment model includes three components: base pay, customer tips, and promotions. Base pay is calculated based on the estimated time, distance, and desirability of the offer, typically ranging from $2 to $10 or more. Dashers receive 100% of customer tips, which significantly contributes to overall earnings. Promotions, such as Peak Pay, offer extra money for completing deliveries during high-demand times.
Dashers are paid weekly through automatic direct deposit to their linked bank account, with funds usually appearing by Wednesday night for the previous week’s earnings. For quicker access, the platform offers Fast Pay, an instant payout option. Fast Pay allows Dashers in the U.S. and Canada to cash out daily for a $1.99 fee, provided they meet eligibility requirements like completing at least 25 lifetime deliveries.
Initial Steps After Approval
Once the application is approved and the background check clears, the new Dasher can begin working. The first step is to download and become familiar with the Dasher app, which serves as the central hub for accepting orders and managing shifts. The app is used to either schedule a shift in advance or utilize the “Dash Now” feature to begin earning if the current area is busy.
New Dashers are mailed an activation kit after they complete their first delivery. This kit contains equipment, including an insulated hot bag and the Red Card. The Red Card is a company debit card used to pay for certain orders at a restaurant when payment has not already been processed. Familiarizing oneself with the app and the kit contents are the final steps before actively starting to deliver.