You do not need a driver's license to deliver for DoorDash, but you do need a valid form of ID and a way to get around

DoorDash allows you to work as a delivery driver without holding a driver's license. Instead, you can use a state ID card, passport, or other government-issued photo ID to complete their background check and verification process. However, you still need a reliable way to deliver orders — whether that's a car, bike, scooter, or on foot — and you must be at least 18 years old.

The reason DoorDash does not require a driver's license is that they offer multiple delivery modes. You can choose to deliver by car, bike, scooter, or walking, depending on what is available in your area. If you deliver by car but do not have a driver's license, you cannot legally drive, so that option would not work for you. But if you use a bike, scooter, or walk, a driver's license is not necessary.

Key Takeaways

  • DoorDash accepts state ID cards, passports, and other government-issued photo IDs instead of a driver's license for account verification.
  • You can deliver by bike, scooter, or on foot without a driver's license, as long as your area offers those delivery modes.
  • If you choose car delivery, you must have a valid driver's license and proof of insurance, even though DoorDash does not require it for other delivery types.
  • Your background check will look at your criminal history and driving record if you have one, but a missing driver's license does not automatically disqualify you.
  • You need to be at least 18 years old and have a Social Security number or ITIN to work for DoorDash in any delivery mode.

What ID DoorDash actually accepts during signup

DoorDash requires a government-issued photo ID to verify your identity, but it does not have to be a driver's license. A state ID card, passport, passport card, or tribal ID all work. The ID must be current and match the name and date of birth you provide during signup.

During the verification process, DoorDash will ask you to upload a photo of your ID and sometimes a selfie to confirm it matches. This step usually takes a few minutes to a few hours. If your ID is expired, DoorDash may still accept it for the initial verification, but you should renew it before it becomes a problem with other services or situations.

How delivery mode affects whether you need a driver's license

DoorDash offers different delivery modes depending on your city. In most urban areas, you can choose between car, bike, scooter, and walking. Each mode has different requirements.

Car delivery requires a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. DoorDash will ask to see these documents before you can set up car deliveries. You must also pass a motor vehicle record check, which looks at your driving history.

Bike, scooter, and walking deliveries do not require a driver's license. You do not need to provide vehicle documents or pass a driving record check. You only need your government-issued ID and proof that you are at least 18 years old.

If your area only offers car delivery and you do not have a driver's license, you cannot work for DoorDash there. But if your area offers bike or scooter delivery, you can sign up and start delivering without one.

What happens during the background check without a driver's license

DoorDash runs a background check on all new dashers. This check includes a criminal history search and, if you are delivering by car, a motor vehicle record check. If you are delivering by bike, scooter, or on foot, DoorDash does not pull your driving record because it is not relevant to your job.

The background check looks at felonies, certain misdemeanors, and driving violations (if applicable). A missing driver's license does not appear on a background check and will not hurt your chances of being hired. However, if you have a criminal conviction that disqualifies you, that will show up regardless of whether you have a license.

The background check usually takes three to five business days. You will receive an email telling you whether you passed. If you are denied, DoorDash will explain which issue caused the denial — for example, a felony conviction or a serious driving violation if you applied for car delivery.

Insurance and liability without a driver's license

If you deliver by car, you need your own auto insurance. DoorDash does not provide insurance for your vehicle, and most personal auto policies do not cover commercial delivery work. You will need to add a commercial endorsement or switch to a commercial auto policy.

If you deliver by bike, scooter, or on foot, you do not need auto insurance. However, DoorDash's insurance does not cover your personal belongings or injuries you suffer while working. Some dashers buy their own renter's or personal liability insurance for extra protection, but it is not required.

State ID card as an alternative to a driver's license

A state ID card is a government-issued photo ID that proves your identity and age but does not allow you to drive. Every state offers state ID cards, and they work just as well as a driver's license for DoorDash verification purposes. You can get one from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles or equivalent agency.

If you do not have a driver's license and do not plan to get one, a state ID card is the easiest form of ID to obtain. It costs between $10 and $30 depending on your state, and you can usually get it within a few weeks. Bring proof of identity (like a birth certificate), proof of address (like a utility bill), and your Social Security number or ITIN to the DMV.

Suspended, revoked, or expired driver's licenses

If your driver's license is suspended or revoked, you cannot deliver by car for DoorDash. The motor vehicle record check will show the suspension or revocation, and DoorDash will not allow you to set up car deliveries. However, you can still deliver by bike, scooter, or on foot if those modes are available in your area.

If your driver's license is expired but not suspended or revoked, you may still be able to deliver by car, but DoorDash will likely ask you to renew it before activating that mode. An expired license shows up on your motor vehicle record and raises questions about your current status. It is safer to renew it first.

If you do not have a driver's license at all and want to deliver by car in the future, you will need to get one. This involves passing a written test, a vision test, and a driving test at your state's DMV. The process usually takes a few weeks to a few months depending on how quickly you can schedule your tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a passport instead of a driver's license for DoorDash?

Yes. A U.S. passport or passport card is a valid government-issued photo ID that DoorDash accepts for account verification. You will upload a photo of it during signup, and it works the same way a driver's license does for identity verification purposes.

What if I have a suspended license and want to deliver by bike?

You can deliver by bike, scooter, or on foot without any issues. A suspended driver's license only affects your ability to deliver by car. DoorDash will not run a motor vehicle record check for non-car deliveries, so the suspension will not show up or matter.

Do I need insurance if I use my own bike to deliver?

DoorDash does not require you to have personal insurance for bike or scooter delivery. However, your homeowner's or renter's insurance may not cover injuries or damage that happen while you are working. Some dashers buy commercial liability coverage for extra protection, but it is optional.

How long does the background check take if I do not have a driver's license?

The background check takes three to five business days whether or not you have a driver's license. If you are explore for bike, scooter, or walking delivery, DoorDash only checks your criminal history. If you are explore for car delivery, they also check your motor vehicle record, which takes the same amount of time.

Can I get hired by DoorDash with only a state ID card?

Yes. A state ID card is a valid government-issued photo ID that DoorDash accepts. You can complete the entire signup and verification process with a state ID card alone, and you can deliver by bike, scooter, or on foot. If you want to deliver by car later, you would need to get a driver's license at that time.