Looking for a smart way to earn extra income without compromising your schedule?
Consider driving for DoorDash, which is the leading on-demand food delivery platform transforming how people enjoy their favorite meals.
As a DoorDash driver, you'll have the opportunity to make the most of your free time, catering to the cravings of your community while taking charge of your financial future.
Dive into our 2025 DoorDash Driver Review to uncover the secrets of this increasingly popular side gig and see if it's right for you!
Key Takeaways
Why Drive for DoorDash?
Average Gross Pay: Roughly $18-$21/hr during active delivery time; $12-$14/hr including waiting/drive-time gaps
Instant Money: Fast Pay lets you withdraw earnings daily for $1.99
100% Tips: Tips pass straight through to you after the 2025 settlement
Promo Money: Market-specific Guaranteed-Earnings (often $300-$1,000) if you hit delivery targets
Massive Coverage: Available in more than 18,000 U.S. cities and towns, plus Canada, Australia, and more
Flexible Modes: “Earn by Time” guarantees a minimum hourly rate plus tips if you prefer stability
What is it?
What is DoorDash?
DoorDash acts as a food liaison, connecting people with their favorite restaurants through one convenient delivery service.
The company provides opportunities for restaurants and drivers-for-hire to profit from the high demand. Thanks to companies like Instacart, Postmates, and other tech powerhouses, it seems everyone is taking advantage of the gig-economy.
With DoorDash, customers get their favorite meals delivered to their door. Restaurants now get to reach more customers, and best of all, you can get a slice of the pie.
How to Start
How to Get Started with DoorDash
Apply online—you must be at least 18 (19 in some states), have a Social Security number, a smartphone, and a valid U.S. driver’s license.
Background check & Activation Kit—once cleared, DoorDash ships you a free insulated bag and a “Red Card” for merchants that require in-person payment
Open the app & accept orders—the map shows busy “hotspots,” payout plus tip, and mileage before you tap “Accept.”
Pros & Cons
DoorDash driver pros & cons
Payment
How much do DoorDash drivers get paid?
As it goes with any side hustle, when you deliver for DoorDash, you get out what you put in. The more hours you work, the more money you will make. It is important to note that several key factors affect the amount of money you can make; however, you are paid for the following:
- A base pay amount for each completed pickup
- A base pay amount for each completed drop-off
- A variable amount (paid by the hour) for time spent waiting for the merchant to fill the order
- A variable per-mile rate covering the distance between the pickup and drop-off locations
- 100% of tips from the customer
Although DoorDash's driver compensation algorithm isn’t public due to many variables like city, time of day, and more, we know the basic structure of each payout per delivery. It looks something like this:
Base pay + trip supplement + promotions + tips = your per-delivery compensation
As we all know, peak business hours for most restaurants tend to be on weekends, particularly during dinner hours, which means dashers tend to see an increase in delivery opportunities during these times. Additionally, DoorDash includes a pay boost algorithm for each delivery, which is determined by factors such as order complexity and the distance you must travel.
DoorDash vs. Uber Eats
How does driving for DoorDash compare?
Choosing between DoorDash and Uber Eats as a driver depends on your priorities. DoorDash excels in earnings transparency and driver support, making it a top choice for food delivery.
However, Uber Eats may be more appealing to those who prefer the option to diversify with ride-hailing services alongside food delivery, offering a wider range of earning opportunities.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does approval take?
Most applicants clear the background check and receive activation instructions within a few days.
Do I need commercial insurance?
DoorDash only requires the minimum state coverage; supplemental liability applies while on delivery.
When am I paid?
Earnings are deposited into your bank every Wednesday for the prior Monday-Sunday; Fast Pay unlocks same-day cash-outs.
Is DoorDash still taking a cut of tips?
No. A 2025 settlement with the NY Attorney General forced DoorDash to pass 100% of tips directly to drivers.
