How to become a DoorDash driver and deliver online food orders in your city

• You can become a DoorDash driver — or a "Dasher" — by completing an online form.
• To become a Doordash driver, you need to be 18 years old and have a driver's license, auto insurance, and access to a car.
• To complete the DoorDash driver application, you'll also need to submit to a background check and complete an orientation.

DoorDash is one of several services - like Uber, Lyft, and Postmates - that lets you work as a freelance employee, setting your own hours and making deliveries as much or as little as you want. It's a flexible "gig" that works for many people as a primary job or side hustle.

And getting started as a DoorDash driver (which DoorDash calls a "Dasher") is straightforward.

How to become a DoorDash driver

The process to become a Dasher is simple.

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1. To get started, open the DoorDash sign-up page in a web browser.

2. Complete the application. You'll need to enter personal information like your name, email, and phone number, then create a password for your account. Save this password.

3. You'll be asked about your vehicle, insurance, and your driver's license information. Enter this information and click "Continue." Note that you don't need to own a car, but you need to have access to one.

4. You'll need to agree to having a background check performed. The background check looks for sexual offenses, DUIs, felonies, and other significant issues that would flag you as a safety or security risk. You can request a free copy of the background check if you want to review it.

5. Finish completing the application. You'll need to enter your address so DoorDash can send you a free activation kit, which you'll need to get started as a driver. You'll also need to complete a W-9, which you can do online.

6. The background check will take several days. When it's complete, you'll need to complete an online orientation (in some cases, this orientation is done in person).

That's the entire process, and most of it - if not everything - can be done online.

DoorDash driver requirements

Before you begin the process of applying to be a Dasher, you should review the requirements and make sure you qualify.

• You must be at least 18 years old.
• You must have a valid driver's license and auto insurance, as well as what DoorDash describes as a "clean" driving record.
• You must have a smartphone that's able to access the DoorDash app.
• You must be able to complete DoorDash's background check, which in the United States will require you to provide your social security number.

It's worth noting that you are not required to own a car. As long as you have access to a vehicle you can be a Dasher. Moreover, depending on your city, DoorDash may allow you to deliver with a motorcycle, scooter, or bicycle.

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