DoorDash Driver Requirements

There aren’t many DoorDash requirements you need to meet before applying to become a Dasher. The minimum age varies slightly by state, and you’ll need a smartphone to navigate the app. We’ll break down each of the following qualification categories:

• Driver requirements
• Vehicle requirements
• Insurance requirements 
• Phone requirements
• Equipment requirements

Here’s everything you need to know about becoming a Dasher.

DoorDash driver requirements 

Here’s how to become a DoorDash driver and check your eligibility before you apply. In most states, the DoorDash age requirement is 18 years old. However, that minimum is 19 years old in the following states:

• Arizona
• Colorado
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Idaho
• Kentucky
• Montana
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• Texas 
• Utah
• West Virginia

You’ll also need an iOS or Android smartphone to become a Dasher. The company recommends using a newer phone with at least 3GB of RAM. Otherwise, the Dasher app may crash and freeze while using it. 

Remember to track delivery-related expenses like your phone, vehicle costs, and mileage to use as a tax deduction. This will reduce your tax bill when it’s time to file. 

DoorDash driver requirements also include having a valid U.S. driver’s license, along with a good driving record. 

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DoorDash vehicle requirements

From there, you’ll need to make sure you meet the DoorDash requirements for the type of vehicle you plan to use. Eligible vehicles include cars and trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters. However, some of those alternatives to cars may be limited to certain geographic areas. 

For cars

There are no specific car requirements for DoorDash, but a Motor Vehicle Report is included in the background check portion of your application. It captures vehicle events like traffic citations, suspended license, DUI convictions, or accident reports. 

As long as you have a clean driving history and meet the insurance requirements, you can start dashing with any type of vehicle.

For scooters 

Dashing on a scooter is a budget friendly alternative to driving a car. Plus, your state’s moped laws may be less restrictive than their laws on cars. You may not even need a driver’s license, so it’s a good option for prospective Dashers who don’t drive cars. You could even rent a scooter to get started and earn some extra money.

However, deliveries via scooters aren’t allowed in all markets. You have to sign into the DoorDash app and check eligibility in your area. 

It’s also worth noting that DoorDash and local police departments in major cities like Boston and D.C. are cracking down on illegal and unsafe scooter activities, including revoking app access. So it’s important to make sure you understand and obey the laws in your area.

For bikes

You can make deliveries with both standard bikes and e-bikes, as long as they’re approved in your city. Just like scooters, you can find out eligible cities by logging into the Dasher app. 

But seasoned Dashers agree that some areas are particularly bike-friendly for deliveries. A 2024 study discovered that the best cities for delivering via bike include Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

DoorDash insurance requirements 

To become a Dasher, you need to carry any type of insurance required by your state. For starters, this means having an auto insurance policy that meets your state minimums. 

But you may also need separate general liability insurance as an independent contractor. Check with your State Corporation Commission for any specific requirements.

DoorDash also provides drivers with some additional insurance protection. The company provides delivery drivers with a commercial auto insurance policy that covers up to $1 million in bodily injury and property damage to third parties if the accident occurs while you’re actively making a delivery. 

Additionally, DoorDash has covered U.S. Dashers with an occupational accident policy since late 2019. This provides you with some financial protection if you become injured or disabled while performing your delivery services.

You can read this article to gain a deeper understanding of DoorDash’s insurance requirements and coverage.

DoorDash equipment requirements

Some restaurants require Dashers to use specific equipment for deliveries, which will be noted in the app’s delivery opportunities. You must submit a picture to verify the proper bag is used, which could include:

• Insulated hot bag
• Pizza bag
• Catering bag for large orders

It's also recommended that you keep a cleaning solution and a paper towel on hand to wipe down the inside of your hot bag between deliveries.

How to sign up as a Dasher

If you meet the basic DoorDash requirements, you’re ready to start the signup process. Here’s what to expect throughout each step.

• Register through the signup page: You’ll just need to enter your email, phone number, and zip code to get started.
• Create a profile: Provide your name and an account password. 
• Download the app: From here, you can log in and continue with the signup process. You just need either an iPhone or Android phone to get the app. Once you’re in, you’ll start by adding in your vehicle type and details. 
• Verify your identity: DoorDash requires you to upload a snapshot of a government ID, along with a selfie. The process also includes a background check, which entails a Motor Vehicle Report and a Criminal History Report.

Background check process

The background check is the last step before you’re approved to become a Dasher. The process can take anywhere between a day and a week. You can log into your Dasher app to check your background check status. 

If you’re approved, you’ll be prompted to choose how and when you want to get paid. You’ll also connect your bank account to enroll in direct deposit. 

Note: DoorDash has recently begun to re-verify some Dasher identities each week. You may be prompted to submit a real-time selfie in order to eliminate account sharing. 

What to do if your application is rejected

Your application may be rejected or suspended if your background check didn’t pass or if DoorDash requires more information. If denied, you’ll receive a Pre-Adverse Action notice via email, which gives you instructions on how to dispute the background check’s accuracy.

DoorDash will inform you via email if you need to provide additional information.

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