Amazon Flex requires a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance before you can start delivering packages

Amazon Flex is a delivery program where you use your own vehicle to deliver Amazon packages on a flexible schedule. To participate, you need to meet specific document and background requirements that Amazon checks before you can accept your first delivery block.

The core requirement is a valid driver's license from any U.S. state or territory. Amazon also needs proof that your vehicle is registered and insured. Beyond these documents, Amazon runs a background check and verifies your driving record. If you have recent serious violations or a disqualifying criminal history, you will not be cleared to drive.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a valid driver's license, current vehicle registration, and active auto insurance before Amazon will approve your account.
  • Amazon checks your driving record and runs a background check; serious violations or certain criminal convictions can disqualify you.
  • Your vehicle must be at least 18 years old, pass a vehicle inspection, and have a clean title (no liens or salvage status).
  • The approval process typically takes 3 to 5 business days after you submit all required documents through the Amazon Flex app.
  • You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and address history for the background check.

Documents You Must Provide During Signup

When you create your Amazon Flex account, you upload documents directly through the app. Amazon requires a photo of your valid driver's license (front and back), a photo of your vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. The insurance document must show your name, the vehicle identification number (VIN), and current coverage dates. A photo of your insurance card works, or you can upload a digital copy from your insurance company's app or website.

You will also enter your Social Security number, date of birth, and full address history for the past seven years. Amazon uses this information to run the background check. If you have moved frequently, have all previous addresses ready — the system will ask for exact dates you lived at each location.

Vehicle Requirements and Inspection

Your vehicle must be at least 18 years old and registered in your name. Amazon will not accept vehicles with salvage titles, flood titles, or active liens. The vehicle must pass a vehicle inspection, which Amazon arranges through a third-party service. You will receive an email with a link to schedule the inspection at a location near you, usually at a local inspection center or partner facility.

During the inspection, a technician checks that the vehicle is safe to drive: brakes, tires, lights, windshield, and wipers all need to be in working condition. The inspection takes about 15 minutes. You do not need to be present, but the vehicle must be there. If your vehicle fails, you will receive a report explaining what needs to be fixed. You can schedule a second inspection after repairs are complete.

Background Check and Driving Record Review

Amazon uses a third-party background check company to review your criminal history and driving record. The check looks back seven years for criminal convictions and typically three to five years for driving violations, depending on your state. Disqualifying factors include felony convictions, DUI or DWI convictions within the past seven years, reckless driving convictions, and multiple moving violations in a short period.

Amazon does not publish an exact threshold for how many violations will disqualify you, but a single recent serious violation (like a DUI) will almost certainly result in denial. Minor violations like a speeding ticket from two years ago are unlikely to block you. If you are unsure whether your record will clear, you can request your own background report before explore — services like LexisNexis and Checkr offer consumer reports that show what Amazon will see.

Age and Residency Requirements

You must be at least 18 years old to drive for Amazon Flex. You also need to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a valid Social Security number. Amazon verifies this during the background check process. If you are not yet a permanent resident or do not have a Social Security number, you cannot currently participate in Amazon Flex.

Your driver's license must be from a U.S. state or territory. If you have a license from another country, you will need to obtain a U.S. driver's license before you can sign up. Some states allow you to convert a foreign license without retaking the full driving test — check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website for the process.

What Happens After You Submit Documents

Once you upload all documents and complete the background check authorization, Amazon begins reviewing your information. This typically takes 3 to 5 business days. During this time, Amazon verifies your documents, runs the background check, and schedules your vehicle inspection. You will receive email updates as each step completes.

If Amazon needs clarification on any document — for example, if your insurance card photo is blurry or your address history is incomplete — they will email you asking for a resubmission. Respond as quickly as possible, because the clock restarts when you resubmit. Once your background check clears and your vehicle passes inspection, Amazon will send a final approval email. You can then log into the app and begin accepting delivery blocks in your area.

What Disqualifies You or Delays Approval

Documents that are expired, illegible, or do not match your name will cause Amazon to request resubmission. If your insurance lapses between the time you submit it and the time Amazon verifies it, your account will be flagged and you will need to provide updated proof. Make sure your insurance is active and will remain active for at least 30 days after you explore.

A vehicle inspection failure does not permanently disqualify you — you can fix the issues and reschedule. However, if your vehicle has a salvage title, flood title, or active lien, Amazon will not clear it no matter what repairs you make. Similarly, if your background check reveals a disqualifying criminal conviction or driving violation, you cannot proceed. Amazon does not offer appeals for background check denials based on criminal history, though you can dispute factual errors if the report contains incorrect information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use someone else's vehicle to deliver for Amazon Flex?

No. The vehicle must be registered in your name, and the insurance must list you as a driver. Amazon verifies ownership during the vehicle inspection. If you do not own a vehicle, you cannot participate in Amazon Flex.

What if my driver's license is suspended or revoked?

You cannot drive for Amazon Flex with a suspended or revoked license. Your license must be valid and in good standing. If your license is currently suspended, you will need to complete the suspension period and have it reinstated before you can sign up.

Do I need a commercial driver's license?

No. A standard passenger vehicle driver's license is sufficient. Amazon Flex does not require a commercial license because you are using your personal vehicle, not a commercial truck.

How far back does Amazon check my driving record?

Amazon typically reviews three to five years of driving violations, though this varies by state. Criminal convictions are checked back seven years. Older violations may still appear on your record but are less likely to disqualify you.

What if I have an accident or ticket after I am approved?

Amazon does not continuously monitor your driving record after approval. However, if you are involved in an accident during a delivery or receive a serious violation, you should report it to Amazon. Serious violations discovered later can result in deactivation from the program.