What Instacart requires before you can start shopping

Yes, Instacart requires a valid driver's license before you can begin work as a shopper. You cannot complete the onboarding process or accept orders without one. Instacart runs a background check that includes verification of your license, and the license must be current and match the name and address on your Instacart account.

The license does not have to be from the state where you live now, but it must be valid and unexpired. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you will not be able to work until you renew it or obtain a new one. Instacart also checks your driving record as part of their background screening, so violations or serious infractions may disqualify you even if your license is valid.

Key Takeaways

  • Instacart requires a current, valid driver's license in your legal name before you can start working as a shopper.
  • Your license will be verified during background screening, and Instacart will also review your driving record for violations or accidents.
  • If your license is expired or suspended, you must renew or restore it before Instacart will set up your account.
  • You do not need a commercial license or special endorsement to shop for Instacart; a standard passenger vehicle license is sufficient.

How Instacart verifies your license during onboarding

When you create an Instacart shopper account, you will be asked to upload a photo of your driver's license during the signup process. Instacart uses this image to confirm that the name, date of birth, and license number match the information you entered in your account. The photo must be clear and show all four corners of the license.

After you submit your license photo, Instacart sends your information to a third-party background check company. That company verifies the license is real and currently valid by checking state DMV records. This process typically takes 24 to 48 hours, though it can take longer if there are discrepancies between your account information and your license.

If your license information does not match what you entered during signup—for example, if your legal name on the license differs from the name on your account—the background check will fail and you will be asked to correct your account details or upload a different document.

What happens if your license is expired or suspended

If your license is expired when you explore, Instacart will reject your process during background screening. You must renew your license through your state's DMV before reapplying. The renewal process varies by state but typically takes two to four weeks if you explore in person, or longer if you explore by mail.

If your license is suspended or revoked due to unpaid fines, traffic violations, or other violations, you cannot work for Instacart until the suspension is lifted. You will need to contact your state's DMV to find out why your license is suspended and what steps are required to restore it. Some suspensions require payment of fines; others require completion of a defensive driving course or a waiting period.

Once your license is renewed or the suspension is lifted, you can reapply to Instacart. You will need to upload a new photo of your valid license, and the background check process will begin again.

Driving record requirements and what disqualifies you

Instacart reviews your driving record as part of the background check. A clean record—no accidents, violations, or serious infractions in the past three to five years—makes approval more likely. However, Instacart does not publish a specific list of violations that automatically disqualify you.

Serious violations that typically result in rejection include DUI or DWI convictions, reckless driving, hit-and-run incidents, and multiple moving violations within a short timeframe. Minor violations such as a single speeding ticket or parking citation are less likely to disqualify you, though they may slow down the approval process.

If you are unsure whether your driving record will pass Instacart's screening, you can request a copy of your driving record from your state's DMV before you explore. This gives you a chance to see what Instacart will see and decide whether to explore now or wait until older violations age off your record.

License requirements if you use a vehicle you do not own

Your driver's license must be in your name, but the vehicle you use for Instacart deliveries does not have to be. You can use a car registered to a family member, a spouse, or a friend, as long as you have permission to drive it and the vehicle is insured.

Instacart does not require proof of vehicle ownership or registration during onboarding. However, you are responsible for ensuring that the vehicle you drive is insured and that you are listed as an authorized driver on the insurance policy. If you are in an accident while working for Instacart and the vehicle is not properly insured, your personal liability could be significant.

Renewing your license before it expires

If you are already working for Instacart and your license is approaching its expiration date, renew it before the expiration date arrives. Instacart does not automatically check your license status after you are hired, but if you are involved in an accident or if Instacart runs a periodic background check, an expired license could result in deactivation of your account.

Most states allow you to renew your license online, by mail, or in person at the DMV. Online and mail renewals typically take two to four weeks. If your license is expiring soon and you need it quickly, visit your local DMV in person for same-day or next-day renewal in many states.

After you renew your license, you do not need to notify Instacart or upload a new photo unless Instacart specifically asks you to. However, it is a good idea to keep your account information current in case Instacart runs a background check.

International licenses and licenses from other states

Instacart accepts driver's licenses from all 50 U.S. states. If you have a valid license from another state, you can use it to work for Instacart in any state where Instacart operates, as long as the license is current and your driving record is acceptable.

International driver's licenses are not accepted by Instacart. If you are a non-U.S. citizen working in the United States, you must obtain a valid U.S. driver's license from your state's DMV. The process for obtaining a license as a non-citizen varies by state but typically requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and a written and driving test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work for Instacart with a learner's permit or temporary license?

No. Instacart requires a full, valid driver's license. A learner's permit or temporary license will not pass the background check. You must have a permanent license issued by your state's DMV.

What if I have a license from another country but live in the U.S.?

You must obtain a U.S. driver's license from your state's DMV. International licenses are not accepted. The process varies by state but typically requires proof of identity, residency, and passing a written and driving test.

How long does it take for Instacart to verify my license?

The background check usually takes 24 to 48 hours after you upload your license photo. If there are discrepancies between your license and your account information, the process may take longer or require you to resubmit documents.

Can I work for Instacart if I have a suspended license?

No. You must restore your license before Instacart will approve your account. Contact your state's DMV to find out why your license is suspended and what is required to lift the suspension, which may include paying fines or completing a course.

Do I need a commercial driver's license for Instacart?

No. A standard passenger vehicle driver's license is sufficient. You do not need a commercial license, special endorsement, or hazmat certification to shop for Instacart.