How to Become a DoorDash Driver and Earn Extra Cash
Do you love food and driving? Do you want to make money on your own schedule? If you answered yes, then you might be interested in becoming a DoorDash driver.
DoorDash is one of the most popular food delivery platforms in the US, Canada, and Australia. It connects customers with local restaurants and allows them to order food online and get it delivered to their doorsteps.
As a DoorDash driver, you can work as an independent contractor and choose when and where you want to deliver. You can also earn tips and bonuses on top of your base pay.
In this blog post, I will share with you everything you need to know about becoming a DoorDash driver, including the requirements, the application process, the pros and cons, and some frequently asked questions.
What are the Requirements to Become a DoorDash Driver?
To become a DoorDash driver, you need to meet the following requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must have a valid driver’s license and auto insurance.
- You must have a clean driving record with no major violations in the last 7 years.
- You must have a smartphone with the DoorDash app installed.
- You must have a bank account and a debit card to receive payments.
- You must pass a background check and a vehicle inspection.
Depending on your location, you may also need to have a specific type of vehicle, such as a car, a truck, a bike, a scooter, or a motorcycle. You can check the vehicle requirements for your area on the DoorDash website.
How to Apply to Become a DoorDash Driver?
The application process to become a DoorDash driver is simple and straightforward. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Visit the DoorDash website and click on “Become a Dasher”.
- Enter your email address and zip code and choose a password.
- Fill out your personal information, such as your name, phone number, and date of birth.
- Provide your driver’s license number and vehicle information.
- Consent to a background check and a vehicle inspection.
- Wait for your activation kit to arrive in the mail. The kit contains a red card, a hot bag, and an orientation manual.
- Activate your red card and set up your direct deposit.
- Complete the online orientation and learn how to use the app.
- Start dashing and earning money.
The whole process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on your location and the demand for drivers.
What are the Pros and Cons of Being a DoorDash Driver?
Being a DoorDash driver has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and cons you should consider before signing up:
Table
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| You can work whenever and wherever you want. | You have to pay for your own gas, maintenance, and taxes. |
| You can earn tips and bonuses on top of your base pay. | You have to deal with traffic, parking, and weather conditions. |
| You can choose which orders to accept or decline. | You have to follow the customer’s instructions and ratings. |
| You can explore new restaurants and cuisines. | You have to compete with other drivers for orders and peak hours. |
| You can enjoy the freedom and flexibility of being your own boss. | You have to handle customer service issues and complaints. |
Summary and FAQ
Becoming a DoorDash driver can be a great way to earn extra cash and have fun at the same time. However, it also comes with some challenges and responsibilities that you should be aware of.
If you are interested in becoming a DoorDash driver, you should do your research and weigh the pros and cons before applying. You should also check the requirements and the application process for your area and make sure you have everything you need to start dashing.
To help you out, here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers about being a DoorDash driver:
- How much can I make as a DoorDash driver?
The amount you can make as a DoorDash driver depends on several factors, such as your location, the number of orders you complete, the distance you travel, the time you work, and the tips you receive. According to DoorDash, the average base pay for drivers is $10-$11 per hour, but you can earn more with tips and bonuses.
- How do I get paid as a DoorDash driver?
As a DoorDash driver, you get paid weekly by direct deposit to your bank account. You can also use the Fast Pay feature to cash out your earnings daily for a $1.99 fee. You can track your earnings and tips on the app and view your pay statements online.
- How do I get more orders as a DoorDash driver?
To get more orders as a DoorDash driver, you can try the following tips:
- Work during peak hours, such as lunch and dinner time, weekends, and holidays.
- Accept more orders, especially those with higher payouts and ratings.
- Drive to areas with high demand and low supply of drivers, such as busy neighborhoods and shopping centers.
- Use the Dash Now feature to find available shifts and zones near you.
- Refer other drivers and earn a bonus for each one who signs up and completes a certain number of deliveries.
- How do I deal with customer service issues as a DoorDash driver?
As a DoorDash driver, you may encounter some customer service issues, such as missing items, wrong orders, late deliveries, or unhappy customers. To deal with these issues, you can try the following tips:
- Contact the customer or the restaurant as soon as possible and explain the situation.
- Apologize and offer a solution, such as a refund, a replacement, or a discount.
- Follow the DoorDash policy and guidelines for handling disputes and complaints.
- Report any problems or feedback to DoorDash through the app or the website.
- Maintain a positive and professional attitude and avoid arguing or blaming anyone.
I hope this blog post has given you some useful information and insights on how to become a DoorDash driver and earn extra cash. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below. Happy dashing! 😊