Who This Guide Is For
This guide is perfect for anyone looking to earn extra money through food delivery. Whether you're between jobs, need supplemental income, or want flexible work that fits your schedule, DoorDash can be an excellent side hustle.
Why DoorDash Works
- • Start earning immediately after approval
- • Work whenever you want - no schedules
- • No boss or customers to deal with long-term
- • Perfect for people who like driving and listening to music/podcasts
Realistic Earnings Potential
Based on my 7+ years of experience and 5,000+ deliveries, here's what you can realistically expect:
Peak Hours (11am-2pm, 5pm-9pm)
$18-25/hour
High demand + tips + bonuses
Off-Peak Hours
$12-18/hour
Slower but still profitable
Real Example from My Experience
Friday dinner rush (5:30pm-8:30pm): 8 deliveries, $67 total earnings
- • Base pay: $24 (average $3 per delivery)
- • Tips: $38 (average $4.75 per delivery)
- • Peak pay bonus: $5 (extra $1 per delivery during busy time)
- • Total: $67 in 3 hours = $22.33/hour
Pros and Cons
Pros
- • Complete flexibility - Work when you want
- • Quick start - Begin earning within days
- • No customer service - Minimal interaction required
- • Cash daily - Instant pay option available
- • Simple work - Pick up food, drop off food
- • Exercise - Walking to restaurants/doors
Cons
- • Vehicle wear - Gas, maintenance, depreciation
- • Weather dependency - Harder in rain/snow
- • Income varies - Depends on demand and tips
- • No benefits - No health insurance or PTO
- • Tax complexity - Track expenses, pay self-employment tax
- • Parking challenges - Especially in urban areas
Requirements to Get Started
Basic Requirements
- • Age 18+ (19+ in some areas)
- • Valid driver's license
- • Vehicle insurance
- • Smartphone (iPhone 6+ or Android 5.0+)
- • Social Security Number for tax purposes
Vehicle Requirements
✓ Accepted Vehicles
- • Any car, truck, or van
- • Motorcycle or scooter
- • Bicycle (in some cities)
- • Even walking (limited areas)
✗ Vehicle Restrictions
- • No year restrictions (unlike rideshare)
- • Must be insured and registered
- • Must pass basic safety check
- • No cosmetic damage requirements
XP Tips: How to Maximize Your Earnings
These are the strategies I've learned from 7+ years of experience that can significantly boost your hourly earnings:
🎯 Peak Hour Strategy
Work during high-demand times for maximum earnings:
- • Lunch rush: 11:30am - 1:30pm (weekdays)
- • Dinner rush: 5:30pm - 8:30pm (daily)
- • Weekend brunch: 10am - 2pm (Saturday/Sunday)
- • Late night: 9pm - 12am (Friday/Saturday)
🚗 Zone Selection
Choose your delivery area strategically:
- • Wealthy suburbs: Higher tips, easier parking
- • Business districts: Quick lunch orders, good tips
- • College areas: High volume, lower tips but more orders
- • Avoid: Far suburbs (long drives), unsafe areas
💰 Order Selection
Be selective about which orders you accept:
- • Aim for $1.50-2.00 per mile minimum
- • Avoid apartment complexes unless high tip
- • Quick restaurants: McDonald's, Chipotle, Subway
- • Skip slow restaurants: Popeyes, Wingstop (unless slow day)
Costs and Required Tools
Essential Tools
Insulated Delivery Bag
$15-30 • Keeps food warm • DoorDash provides free bag
Phone Mount
$10-25 • Hands-free navigation • Essential for safety
Car Charger
$5-15 • Keep phone charged • Fast charging recommended
Ongoing Costs
Gas
$0.15-0.25 per mile • Biggest expense • Track for taxes
Vehicle Maintenance
$0.10-0.15 per mile • Oil changes, tires, brakes
Insurance
May increase • Check with insurer • Commercial coverage recommended
Step-by-Step Getting Started Guide
Step 1: Apply Online
Visit doordash.com/dasher and complete the application. You'll need:
- • Basic personal information
- • Driver's license photo
- • Insurance card photo
- • Social Security Number
Step 2: Background Check
DoorDash will run a background check through Checkr. This typically takes 1-5 business days.
What they check: Criminal history, driving record, and identity verification.
Step 3: Download the Dasher App
Once approved, download the "Dasher" app (different from the customer app).
Complete the app setup including: Bank account for payments, emergency contact, and delivery preferences.
Step 4: Get Your Equipment
Order your free activation kit from DoorDash, or pick up supplies locally:
- • Insulated delivery bag (free from DoorDash)
- • Phone mount for your car
- • Car charger
- • Hand sanitizer and wipes
Step 5: Start Dashing!
Open the Dasher app and tap "Dash Now" to begin. For your first few deliveries:
- • Start during slower times to learn the process
- • Focus on nearby restaurants you know
- • Take your time – speed comes with experience
- • Be polite to restaurant staff and customers
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I realistically make per week?
Working 20-25 hours during peak times, most drivers earn $300-500 per week. Full-time drivers (35+ hours) can earn $600-800+ per week, but this requires strategic scheduling and market knowledge.
Do I need to report this income to the IRS?
Yes, you'll receive a 1099 form if you earn $600+ per year. You'll pay self-employment tax (15.3%) plus income tax. However, you can deduct business expenses like gas, phone bills, and vehicle maintenance. Track everything!
What happens if I get into an accident while dashing?
DoorDash provides excess liability coverage while you're on a delivery, but it's secondary to your personal insurance. Many insurers don't cover commercial use, so consider adding commercial coverage or rideshare coverage to your policy.
Can I dash in multiple cities?
Yes, but you need to update your starting location in the app. Some markets are busier than others, so research peak times and popular areas in each city you plan to work.
Should I accept every order?
No! Your acceptance rate doesn't affect your account status. Be selective – aim for orders that pay at least $1.50-2.00 per mile. Declining bad orders helps maintain your hourly earnings.
How do I handle difficult customers?
Stay professional and follow DoorDash's contact policies. If there's an issue, use the app's support feature. Never argue with customers – document problems and let DoorDash handle disputes.
Ready to Start Your DoorDash Quest?
You have everything you need to start earning money with DoorDash. The sooner you begin, the sooner you'll be making extra income on your own schedule.
Apply to DoorDash Ask Questions