The DoorDash platform offers a flexible opportunity for individuals seeking to enter the gig economy and earn income on their own schedule. As a Dasher, you operate as an independent contractor, accepting delivery requests through a dedicated smartphone application to connect customers with various merchants. The process of moving from a prospective applicant to an active Dasher involves specific steps, beginning with meeting core eligibility standards and concluding with operational setup. Navigating the application and onboarding stages efficiently allows new delivery drivers to quickly transition to earning money.
Essential Eligibility Requirements
Before initiating the digital application, you must meet several non-negotiable requirements that determine your initial eligibility. A prospective Dasher must be at least 18 years old, though minimum ages vary by state (e.g., 21 in California, 19 in others). If you plan to use a motor vehicle, you must possess a valid domestic driver’s license and maintain adequate auto insurance coverage. Applicants must also provide a valid Social Security number for identification and tax purposes, and own a compatible iOS or Android smartphone to run the Dasher application.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Online Application
The application process begins on the dedicated sign-up website or through the Dasher app, where you create an account using your email and phone number. You will enter basic personal information, including your full legal name, mailing address, intended delivery region, and chosen mode of transportation (car, motorcycle, or bicycle). You must input your Social Security number to authorize the subsequent background check and fulfill tax documentation requirements. Providing accurate, consistent information is important because discrepancies can cause significant delays in the approval timeline. After reviewing the independent contractor agreement, you submit the application.
Understanding the Background Check and Approval Process
Following the submission of your details, the platform initiates a comprehensive background screening conducted by a third-party service. This vetting process focuses on two primary areas: your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) and your criminal history. The MVR screens for major driving infractions like DUIs, while the criminal history report checks for disqualifying offenses, including violent crimes or felonies. The duration of this check typically ranges from three to ten business days, making it the longest part of the onboarding process. Approval times vary widely, and some applicants may wait up to two weeks depending on the backlog and the speed of record retrieval from local offices. Once the results meet the platform’s safety standards, you receive an official approval notification.
Setting Up Your Dasher Account and Equipment
Upon receiving approval, download the specialized Dasher app to your smartphone to manage your account and delivery activity. You must link your bank account information to the app for direct deposit, which is the mechanism used to receive your earnings.
Shortly after approval, DoorDash mails a welcome kit containing an insulated hot bag and the Red Card. The Red Card is a prepaid company debit card used for certain orders where the Dasher must pay the merchant for the items, such as at locations without direct payment integration. The exact amount needed for the transaction is automatically loaded onto the card only when an order requiring its use is accepted. While you can start delivering without the kit, activating the Red Card and using the insulated bag allows you to accept a wider range of orders.
Taking Your First Delivery
With your account active and equipment ready, you can begin delivering by navigating to the “Schedule” tab within the Dasher application. The platform allows you to either schedule a “Dash” in advance, reserving a specific time block, or use the “Dash Now” feature when the system indicates high demand in your area. Scheduling ahead is recommended to secure work, especially during peak meal times. When your reserved time arrives, you must check in via the app and tap “Start Dashing” within a grace period, typically ten minutes, to prevent the shift from being automatically dropped. Once active, the app presents delivery opportunities, displaying the merchant, estimated total distance, and earnings. The process involves driving to the restaurant for pickup, confirming the order, and navigating to the customer’s location for the final drop-off.