1. Meet the Basic Requirements:
Age: You must be at least 18 years old. (Note: In some states like Arizona, California, Florida, etc., it's 19 years old).
Vehicle: You'll need a car, scooter, or bicycle. In some select cities, you can even deliver on foot.
Documentation:
Valid driver's license (if using a car, scooter, or motorcycle).
Proof of auto insurance (if using a car or motorcycle).
A government-issued photo ID (if delivering by bike or on foot).
Social Security Number (for the background check).
Smartphone: An iPhone or Android smartphone to use the Dasher app.
2. Start Your Application Online:
Visit the official Door Dash Dasher sign-up page: https://dasher.doordash.com/en-us or through a direct signup link provided on their support pages.
Enter your basic information: email address, phone number, and zip code.
Create your profile with your full name and a password.
3. Download the Dasher App:
After the initial online registration, you'll be prompted to download the "Dasher" app (available for iPhone and Android). This is where you'll manage your deliveries.
Log in to the app to continue the signup process.
4. Provide Required Documents & Information:
Vehicle Type: Select the type of vehicle you'll be using for deliveries (car, scooter, bicycle, or walk).
Identity Verification: You'll typically need to upload a picture of a valid government ID and take a selfie to match the picture on your ID.
Background Check Consent: You will need to consent to a background check, which includes a Motor Vehicle Report (if you're driving) and a Criminal History Report. DoorDash uses a third-party service (often Checker) for this. This step usually takes a few days, but can sometimes take up to a week or longer.
5. Set Up Payout Method:
Choose how you want to receive your earnings. You can typically:
Set up weekly direct deposits to your bank account.
Opt for "Instantly" payments via Dasher Direct (their debit card option, often available after every dash).
You might also have the option to set this up later.
6. Wait for Approval and Welcome Kit:
Once your background check is completed and approved, you'll gain full access to the Dasher app.
Door Dash usually sends a free welcome kit that often includes an insulated hot bag. This is typically mailed to the address you provided.
7. Start Dashing!
Once your account is active, you can open the Dasher app, go online, and start accepting delivery requests. The app will guide you through picking up and dropping off orders.
The entire application process, from initial sign-up to being ready to dash, can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, largely depending on how quickly the background check is processed.