DoorDash was actually my first gig app. Before I tried anything else, I signed up to be a Dasher. Here's why it's still a solid choice for anyone looking to start earning extra income.
Why DoorDash First?
When I was looking for a flexible way to make extra money, DoorDash kept coming up. It's the most popular food delivery platform in the US, which means one thing: consistent orders. In most areas, you won't be sitting around waiting for deliveries.
What Makes DoorDash Different
After trying multiple delivery apps, here's what stands out about DoorDash:
- Market Leader - More restaurants and more customers means more orders
- Keep 100% of Tips - Every tip goes straight to you, no questions
- Fast Pay - Cash out your earnings daily for a small $1.99 fee
- Scheduling Flexibility - Dash Now when it's busy, or schedule ahead
- Clear Earnings Display - See what you'll make before accepting
The Dasher Experience
Here's what a typical delivery looks like:
- Get a delivery offer with the restaurant, drop-off distance, and payout
- Accept or decline based on whether it's worth your time
- Drive to the restaurant and pick up the order
- Deliver to the customer (usually leave at door)
- Mark complete and get your next offer
The whole process is straightforward. The app guides you through everything.
What You Need to Start
DoorDash has some of the most accessible requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a valid driver's license
- Have access to a car, bike, or scooter
- Pass a background check
- Have a smartphone (iPhone or Android)
That's it. No special vehicle requirements, no age minimums beyond 18. If you have a way to get around and a phone, you can start.
Maximizing Your Earnings
After dashing for a while, I've learned a few things:
- Work meal times - Lunch (11am-1pm) and dinner (5pm-9pm) are busiest
- Know your zone - Learn which areas have the most restaurants
- Be selective - Decline low-paying orders that aren't worth your time
- Track your mileage - It's tax deductible
- Peak Pay bonuses - Extra money during busy times
The $300 Dasher Challenge
I actually created a whole course around maximizing DoorDash earnings. It's called the $300 Dasher Challenge, and it's available inside The Everyday Hustle community. If you want to learn my strategies for hitting consistent numbers, check it out.
Ready to Start?
If you're on the fence, just try it. The signup process takes about 10 minutes, and the background check usually clears in 3-7 days. Once you're approved, you can start earning immediately.
There's no commitment. No minimum hours. Just open the app when you want to work and close it when you're done.
Start earning $20+/hour potential*
Questions about getting started with DoorDash? Drop them in The Everyday Hustle community. I'm happy to share what's worked for me.
- Jeff
*Earnings shown are estimates based on personal experience and are not guaranteed. Your actual earnings will depend on factors including your location, hours worked, demand in your area, and effort.