Are you considering joining the gig economy as a DoorDash driver? Whether you're looking for a flexible side hustle or a full-time gig, understanding how much you can make as a Doordash Driver and how the Doordash payment process works is crucial. In this blog, we'll dive deep into what it means to be a DoorDash driver, including how to get started, what you can expect to earn, and tips to maximize your income.

If you're ready to learn more about the financial aspects and operational details of being a DoorDash driver, keep reading!

What is DoorDash?

DoorDash is a leading food delivery service that connects people with the restaurants and groceries in their cities. DoorDash started primarily as a food delivery service but has since expanded its reach to include convenience and grocery store items, broadening its appeal and functionality for consumers. For those looking for a new way to earn money while working a flexible schedule, DoorDash can be a good option. The flexibility of working with DoorDash lies in your ability to choose when and where you work, making it an attractive gig for many looking for flexible working hours.

How do I Become a DoorDash Driver?

Signing up to be a DoorDash driver, or "Dasher'' as they are called, is fairly straightforward. You must be 18 years or older, have access to a smartphone, and a mode of transportation (car, bike, scooter) to sign up for DoorDash. If you meet these requirements, you can start the sign up process on the DoorDash app or website, where you will need to provide some basic information about yourself and the vehicle or other mode of transportation you plan to use. You'll also undergo a background check before you can start accepting deliveries. 

How Long Does It Take to Become a DoorDash Driver?

The time from application to starting your first delivery can vary, as the process includes filling out your application, passing a background check to ensure a clean driving record, and receiving your welcome kit. 

In some markets, you may be added to a waitlist before you are able to complete orders. Solo’s Pay Insights tools can help you find other jobs in your city and know what they’re paying on average if you are waitlisted. 

What Types of Orders Can I Expect on DoorDash?

DoorDash offers several types of delivery options for Dashers. While most deliveries are from restaurants, the expansion into grocery and convenience stores has diversified the types of orders you might carry. This includes everything from single meal deliveries to large grocery orders, increasing the opportunities for Dashers to earn. Here’s a breakdown of the most common DoorDash order types: 

Restaurant Delivery: 

Restaurant deliveries are the backbone of DoorDash’s services, connecting customers with a wide array of dining options from local diners to high-end restaurants. As a Dasher, you’ll primarily pick up pre-paid orders and transport them to customers’ locations. This type of delivery is typically fast-paced and could be highly lucrative, especially during peak dining hours when demand spikes. Providing quick and courteous service in these deliveries can also increase your chances of receiving a good tip.

Shop and Pay:

Shop and Pay orders on DoorDash involve a bit more than just picking up and delivering food. As a Dasher, you will be required to shop for items from the list provided by the customer, pay for them using your Red Card, pre-loaded payment card provided by DoorDash, and then deliver them. This type of order is more time-consuming but offers a change of pace from regular restaurant deliveries and can be a good way to break the monotony, reduce your waiting time, and often result in higher earnings due to the additional effort involved.

Pizza Delivery:

Specializing in pizza delivery as a Dasher can be a profitable niche, primarily because pizza is a popular choice among many households for delivery. These orders often come in large sizes, which could lead to larger tips, especially during events like game nights or family gatherings. Pizza delivery requires careful handling to ensure that the product arrives in the best possible condition—hot and intact, which is why DoorDash requires you to purchase a thermal delivery bag that can hold 4-6 pizzas at a time, and complete the onboarding process for pizza delivery to verify you are able to complete pizza orders. 

These order types will appear in your DoorDash driver app in the same place for you to accept or reject. 

How Does the DoorDash Pay Structure Work?

DoorDash pays its drivers based on a formula that includes a base pay per delivery, promotions (like Peak Pay), and tips. 

• Base pay is determined by the time, distance, and desirability of the order. 
• Promotions like can add higher earnings during busy times or in high-demand areas. 
• 100% of tips go directly to the Dasher. 

This pay structure allows drivers some predictability in earnings while also offering the potential for increases when demand is high.

How do DoorDash Drivers get paid? 

DoorDash offers Dashers a flexible and straightforward payment system, calculated at the end of each delivery and include a base pay, any applicable promotions, and tips from customers. Dashers have the flexibility to withdraw their earnings immediately through Fast Pay, a feature that allows you to transfer your earnings to your bank account for a small fee. Alternatively, payments are automatically deposited to your bank account once a week. This weekly pay includes earnings from Monday to Sunday of the previous week, giving Dashers a regular and predictable payment schedule while also offering the flexibility to access earnings whenever they need them.

Learn more about how much DoorDash drivers make on average.

Expenses to Track While Driving for DoorDash

As an independent contractor, tracking your expenses is crucial. These can include gas, vehicle maintenance, insurance, and phone data plans. Keeping detailed records of these expenses is important as they can be deductible come tax time, potentially saving you money and lowering your taxable income as a 1099 worker. Tools like Solo’s automated mileage tracker can help you easily track your work related miles to make tax filing a breeze.  

Ways to Increase Earnings with DoorDash

To maximize your earnings as a Dasher, consider the following tips:

1. Work during peak hours: Lunch and dinner times are usually busier, offering more orders and higher earning potential through promotions like Peak Pay. Solo’s Smart Schedule feature shows you what DoorDash and your other platforms are expected to pay for each hour of the day, helping you decide when to work to earn the most. 
2. Be selective about the orders you accept: While you might feel tempted to take every order that comes your way, it can be beneficial to choose orders that have a higher base pay and potential for tips.
3. Provide excellent service: Friendly, reliable service can increase your chances of receiving tips, which can significantly boost your overall earnings.
4. Use a fuel-efficient vehicle: Lowering your gas expenses can help increase your net earnings.

Final Thoughts

Driving for DoorDash offers a flexible way to earn money, whether you're looking for a full-time job or just a way to make extra cash. By understanding how DoorDash's pay structure works and employing strategies to maximize your earnings, you can make the most out of your time as a Dasher.