Becoming a delivery driver is a popular employment option in the logistics sector. Requirements depend heavily on the employment structure chosen, as Amazon utilizes a network of partners and independent contractors. This means age and qualification standards are not uniform across all delivery positions. Choosing a model requires a clear understanding of the distinct roles and the specific rules that apply to each.
Understanding the Different Types of Amazon Driving Roles
The majority of deliveries are handled through two distinct employment models: the Delivery Service Partner (DSP) program and Amazon Flex. DSPs are independent businesses that contract with Amazon to perform deliveries. They hire drivers as W-2 employees who operate the blue, Amazon-branded vans, handling the largest volume of last-mile package delivery.
The Amazon Flex program operates as a gig economy model, classifying drivers as 1099 independent contractors. Flex drivers use their own personal vehicles for deliveries, often for services like Amazon Fresh or standard logistics routes. The choice of role determines the vehicle used, the pay structure, and the minimum required age.
Minimum Age Requirements for Delivery Service Partner (DSP) Drivers
The practical minimum age for a DSP driver is 21 years old. Although some states permit individuals to hold a standard driver’s license at 18, commercial auto insurance policies carried by DSPs impose a higher age requirement.
This age restriction is a direct consequence of operating large fleet vehicles and company-provided, Amazon-branded cargo vans. Compliance with commercial insurance terms is non-negotiable for DSP owners. Consequently, applicants under 21 are ineligible for these W-2 employee positions.
Minimum Age Requirements for Amazon Flex Drivers
The age requirement for the independent contractor model, Amazon Flex, is consistently set at 21 years old in the United States. Drivers who participate in this gig work use a smartphone application to reserve delivery blocks and must use their own mid-sized or larger personal vehicle. This platform’s standard age requirement is tied to general platform policy and insurance considerations.
The 21-year-old minimum applies regardless of the type of delivery being made. The requirement ensures the driver meets standard eligibility for commercial coverage.
Essential Non-Age Qualifications
Beyond the age requirement, all driver candidates must meet several qualifications.
Driving and Background Checks
Candidates must possess a valid, non-Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) issued in the state where they plan to work. A mandatory Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) check confirms a clean driving history over the past three to five years, meaning an absence of major violations like driving under the influence. A full criminal background check is also required for both DSP and Flex roles.
Physical Requirements
Delivery work is physically demanding. Drivers must be able to safely lift and carry packages weighing up to 50 pounds, often multiple times per hour. They must also be comfortable with repeated entry and exit from a vehicle and working in various weather conditions.
The Application and Hiring Process
The application process differs significantly depending on the employment model.
DSP Application Process
Candidates for DSP positions apply through a centralized Amazon job portal, which funnels applications to local DSP owners. The sequence involves an initial application submission, followed by MVR and criminal background screenings.
If a candidate passes these checks, they are invited for an interview with the local DSP owner, who makes the final hiring decision. Successful applicants proceed to a multi-day paid training and onboarding program. This training includes classroom instruction on safety and delivery procedures, followed by practical ride-alongs to learn route technology and package handling protocols.
Amazon Flex Application Process
The Amazon Flex process is streamlined through the dedicated Flex smartphone application. Applicants download the app and submit personal information, driver’s license, and proof of insurance directly through the platform. After the background check is completed, applicants may be placed on a waitlist until there is a need for drivers in their area. Once approved, the driver can begin reserving “blocks,” which are pre-scheduled delivery time slots.
Typical Driver Pay and Work Expectations
Compensation for DSP drivers is based on an hourly wage. The national average for these W-2 employees is nearly $22 per hour, though local rates range from $16 to over $25 per hour. DSP drivers typically work full-time schedules, often four 10-hour shifts per week, with guaranteed hours. They are eligible for employee benefits such as paid time off and health insurance, generally offered by the DSP owner.
In contrast, Amazon Flex drivers are paid a pre-determined rate for each delivery “block” they complete, calculated to be between $18 and $25 per hour, excluding surge pay. Flex offers flexibility, allowing contractors to reserve blocks that fit their schedule. However, the work is not guaranteed, and the driver must cover all vehicle expenses. Both roles require drivers to manage a high volume of stops in a demanding, fast-paced environment.