You do not need a driver's license to work as an Instacart shopper, but you do need a valid government-issued ID and a Social Security number
Instacart's background check requires proof of identity and citizenship status, which a driver's license can provide — but it is not the only document that works. A passport, state ID card, or tribal ID all satisfy the identity requirement. The company does not verify driving history or require you to own a car, even though many shoppers use personal vehicles for deliveries.
What matters to Instacart is that you pass the background screening, meet the age requirement (18 or older), and can legally work in the United States. The identity document is part of that verification process, not a job qualification itself.
Key Takeaways
- A valid government-issued ID — driver's license, passport, or state ID — is required during Instacart's background check, but a driver's license is not the only option.
- Instacart does not check your driving record or require proof of vehicle ownership, even though most shoppers use cars to complete deliveries.
- You must be at least 18 years old and authorized to work in the United States, which the background check verifies.
- If you do not have a driver's license, a passport or state-issued ID card will work for the identity verification step.
What ID documents Instacart accepts during background screening
Instacart uses a third-party background check company to verify your identity before you can start shopping. That company needs a government-issued photo ID to confirm who you are. A driver's license is the most common choice because most adults have one, but it is not required.
Acceptable alternatives include a U.S. passport, a state ID card (issued by your state's DMV or equivalent), or a tribal ID. The document must be current and match the name and date of birth you provide during registration. If your ID is expired, you may still be able to use it for the background check — the rules vary by state and by the background check company's policies.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number, which Instacart uses to verify your work authorization and run the background check. This is separate from the ID document but equally required.
Whether you need a car or a driver's license to deliver
Instacart does not require you to own a car or have a driver's license to work as a shopper. The company offers two main roles: in-store shoppers, who pick items off shelves in partner grocery stores, and full-service shoppers, who shop and deliver. Full-service shoppers typically use their own vehicles, but the company does not verify that you own one or have the legal right to drive it.
If you do not have a car, you can still work as an in-store shopper at a store near you. You will pick and bag items for customers, and Instacart's delivery network handles the final delivery. This role does not require any driving or a driver's license.
For full-service shopping, you will need a way to transport groceries to customers — a personal car, a borrowed vehicle, or a ride-sharing service. Instacart does not police how you do this, only that deliveries are completed on time and in good condition.
Background check requirements beyond the ID
The background check Instacart runs looks for criminal history, not driving violations. The company screens for felonies and certain misdemeanors, particularly those involving violence, theft, or fraud. A poor driving record will not disqualify you, and Instacart does not pull your motor vehicle report as part of the standard screening.
The check also verifies that you are not on any sex offender registry and that you are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is where your Social Security number comes in — it allows the background check company to confirm your work may be able to access through E-Verify or similar systems.
The entire process typically takes three to five business days. Once you pass, you can start accepting orders when ready.
What happens if you do not have a government-issued ID
If you do not have a driver's license, passport, or state ID card, you will need to obtain one before you can complete Instacart's background check. The company requires a government-issued photo ID as part of its verification process and will not proceed without one.
Getting a state ID card is usually faster and cheaper than a driver's license if you do not plan to drive. You can explore at your state's DMV or equivalent office. The process typically takes one to two weeks, though expedited options are sometimes available for an additional fee. You will need proof of identity (like a birth certificate), proof of residence (like a utility bill), and your Social Security number.
If you are a non-citizen with work authorization, a passport from your country of origin is also acceptable to Instacart, as long as it is current.
How to register with Instacart without a driver's license
Start by going to Instacart's shopper sign-up page and entering your basic information: name, email, phone number, and date of birth. You will be asked whether you want to work as an in-store shopper, a full-service shopper, or both.
Next, you will upload a photo of your government-issued ID. This is where you use your passport, state ID card, or other acceptable document instead of a driver's license. Make sure the photo is clear, the ID is not expired (or check Instacart's current policy on expired IDs), and the name matches what you entered during registration.
You will also provide your Social Security number and authorize the background check. Once submitted, the process is the same whether you used a driver's license or another form of ID. The background check company will verify your information and contact you if they need clarification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work for Instacart if I have a suspended driver's license?
Yes. Instacart does not check your driving status or pull your motor vehicle record. A suspended license will not prevent you from being hired. However, if you are a full-service shopper and you drive to make deliveries, driving with a suspended license is illegal and puts you at legal risk.
What if my ID name does not match my current legal name?
Contact Instacart's support team before you submit your background check. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, you may need to provide additional documentation like a marriage certificate or court order. It is easier to clarify this upfront than to have your background check delayed or rejected.
Do I need a car to be an in-store shopper?
No. In-store shoppers work inside the grocery store and do not need a car. You will need transportation to get to the store for your shifts, but Instacart does not require you to own a vehicle or have a driver's license for this role.
How long does the background check take if I use a passport instead of a driver's license?
The timeline is the same — typically three to five business days. The background check company treats all government-issued photo IDs the same way. The type of ID you submit does not speed up or slow down the process.
What if I fail the background check?
Instacart will notify you of the reason. If it is due to a criminal record, you may be able to appeal or reapply after a certain period. If it is due to an error on the background report itself, you can dispute it with the background check company. Contact Instacart's support team for next steps specific to your situation.