You do not need a driver's license to deliver for DoorDash, but you do need a valid government-issued ID and you must be at least 18 years old

DoorDash requires a photo ID to verify your identity during the background check, but that ID does not have to be a driver's license. A state ID card, passport, or passport card all work. The confusion comes from the fact that most people have a driver's license, so it becomes the default choice — but if you do not drive or do not have one, you can use any government-issued photo ID with your name and date of birth on it.

What DoorDash actually cares about is running a background check and confirming you are old enough to work. The ID is the tool they use to do that verification. If you are planning to deliver by car, you will need a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance — but those are separate requirements tied to driving, not to working as a DoorDash dasher.

Key Takeaways

  • A state ID card, passport, or passport card satisfies DoorDash's ID requirement instead of a driver's license.
  • You must be 18 or older and pass a background check to work as a dasher, regardless of which ID you use.
  • If you plan to deliver by car, you will need a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance — these are separate from your dasher ID requirement.
  • Delivery by bicycle, scooter, or on foot does not require a driver's license at all.

What ID DoorDash accepts during signup

During the signup process, DoorDash asks for a photo ID to confirm your identity and run a background check. The ID must be government-issued and must show your full name and date of birth. A driver's license works, but so does a state ID card issued by your state's DMV, a U.S. passport, a passport card, or a tribal ID if you are a member of a federally recognized tribe.

The ID does not have to be current in every state — some states accept expired IDs as long as the photo is still recognizable and the name matches what you provide during signup. However, if your ID is more than a few years expired, DoorDash may ask you to provide a different form of ID or request additional verification. The safest approach is to use an ID that is current or expired within the last year.

Delivering by car versus other methods

If you plan to deliver by car, DoorDash requires a valid driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. These are not optional — you cannot deliver by car without them. DoorDash verifies these documents during signup and may ask to see them again if you update your vehicle information.

If you deliver by bicycle, electric scooter, or on foot, you do not need a driver's license at all. You only need the government-issued photo ID for the background check. Many dashers in cities use bikes or scooters specifically because they do not have a driver's license or do not want to use a personal vehicle. DoorDash allows you to choose your delivery method during signup, and you can change it later if you want to switch between car, bike, and walking deliveries.

The background check process and what it requires

DoorDash uses a third-party background check company to screen all new dashers. The company needs your ID to verify your identity and pull your criminal history. The background check typically takes three to five business days, though it can take longer if there are issues with your information or if the background check company needs additional documentation.

A background check does not automatically disqualify you if you have a criminal record — DoorDash considers the nature and age of any conviction. Violent crimes, sexual offenses, and felonies involving theft or fraud are typically disqualifying. Misdemeanors and older felonies may not be, depending on DoorDash's current policy. If you are unsure whether your record will be an issue, you can contact DoorDash support before submitting your process.

What happens if you do not have any government-issued ID

If you do not have a driver's license and do not have a state ID card, passport, or passport card, you will need to get one before you can sign up with DoorDash. A state ID card is usually the fastest and cheapest option. You can explore at your state's DMV office, and the process typically takes a few weeks. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may still be able to work for DoorDash, but the ID requirements are stricter. DoorDash requires proof of work authorization, which usually means an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or a valid visa. Contact DoorDash support directly if you are not sure whether your immigration status allows you to work as a dasher.

Updating your ID information after signup

If your ID expires or you get a new one, you can update your information in the DoorDash app under your account settings. DoorDash may ask you to re-verify your identity if there are significant changes to your information, such as a name change. If you change your delivery method from car to bike, you do not need to update your ID — you just need to change your delivery method in the app.

If DoorDash flags your account for any reason during the background check or later, they will send you a message in the app or to your email. Do not ignore these messages — respond as quickly as you can with the information they request. Delays in responding can result in your account being deactivated while they investigate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an expired ID to sign up for DoorDash?

It depends on how expired it is. Most states allow DoorDash to accept an ID that expired within the last year or two, as long as the photo is still recognizable. If your ID is older than that, DoorDash may reject it and ask for a different form of ID. Your best option is to use a current ID if you have one.

What if I have a driver's license from another country?

DoorDash requires a U.S. government-issued ID. A foreign driver's license does not work. You will need a U.S. state ID card, passport, or passport card. If you are not yet a U.S. citizen, you will also need to show proof of work authorization.

Do I need a real name on my ID to match my DoorDash account exactly?

Yes, the name on your ID must match the name on your DoorDash account. If you have a legal name change or go by a nickname, use the legal name from your ID. If there is a mismatch, DoorDash will flag it during the background check and ask you to correct it.

Can someone else sign up for DoorDash using my ID?

No. DoorDash requires that the person signing up is the same person whose name and photo appear on the ID. Using someone else's ID is fraud and will result in permanent deactivation from the platform.

How long does the background check take after I submit my ID?

The background check usually takes three to five business days. During that time, your account will show as "pending." Once it is complete, DoorDash will notify you whether you have been approved. If there are issues, they will ask for additional information, which can extend the timeline.