So, you’re thinking about taking your restaurant or food biz online, huh? Smart move. These days, everyone’s glued to their phones, and DoorDash is pretty much the MVP when it comes to getting food delivered fast. We’re talking millions of hungry folks scrolling, tapping, and looking for their next meal—and your menu could be the one popping up on their screen.
DoorDash isn’t just some delivery app. It’s like having your own mini sales team working 24/7, but without the extra overhead. You can reach customers you never even knew existed in your city, and yeah, those late-night snackers are out there too. Whether you’re running a mom-and-pop spot, a food truck, or a full-on restaurant, signing up as a DoorDash merchant can seriously level up your game.
Here’s the thing: if you’ve been wondering how to get on DoorDash without getting lost in all the paperwork and setup stuff, you’re in the right place. I’m gonna walk you through it step by step—what you need, what to avoid, and how to get your menu live so orders start rolling in without stressing your brain.
Think of this guide like your cheat sheet to getting your restaurant digital-ready, boosting your sales, and keeping things chill while you let the app do its thing. No corporate jargon, no confusing tech stuff—just simple, straight-up advice you can actually use.
Why Sign Up as a DoorDash Merchant
Alright, so why even bother signing up? I mean, you’ve got your regular foot traffic, your loyal customers, and maybe even some online orders via phone. But DoorDash? That’s a whole other level.
Reach more hungry folks
Think about it—DoorDash has millions of users all over the U.S. People aren’t just looking for pizza in your neighborhood—they’re scrolling for anything from sushi to tacos. Being on DoorDash puts your food right in front of them, and you don’t have to do any extra marketing magic.
Get orders 24/7
Even if your restaurant closes at 9 PM, late-night munchers don’t care. DoorDash can still bring your grub to their door, and that’s extra revenue you weren’t making before. More orders, less effort—pretty sweet deal.
Simplified delivery
You don’t have to hire a delivery driver if you don’t want to. DoorDash drivers handle the drop-offs, so you can focus on what matters most—cooking awesome food. No stress, no headaches, just letting the system do its thing.
Boost your sales without extra ad spend
Sure, you could throw cash at Instagram ads or Google promos, but DoorDash basically does that for you. People who are already hungry are scrolling the app looking for exactly what you’re selling. That’s prime real estate for your menu.
Easy integration with your existing setup
If you already have a POS system or manage orders online, DoorDash usually plays nice. You can sync menus, track orders, and keep tabs on your sales without juggling a million spreadsheets.
Signing up as a DoorDash merchant isn’t just about being on an app—it’s about growing your business, reaching more people, and making life easier for both you and your customers. It’s like putting your food in front of a massive audience, without having to chase them down yourself.
Fees, Commission, and Pricing for DoorDash Merchants
One of the first questions most merchants ask is, “How much is this gonna cost me?” Here’s the lowdown so you won’t get any nasty surprises.
DoorDash Commission
DoorDash typically takes around 20% per order. This includes the delivery fee they charge customers.
Commission covers marketing, app maintenance, and the convenience of connecting you with millions of potential customers.
Additional Fees
Optional Promotions & Ads: If you want to run promotions like “$0 delivery” or boost your visibility in the app, DoorDash charges extra.
Processing Fees: Usually included in the commission, but always double-check for credit card processing charges.
How to Calculate Your Earnings
- Example: Let’s say you sell a sandwich for $10.
- DoorDash takes 20% → $2
- You keep $8 (before tax)
High-ticket items or combos follow the same logic—DoorDash takes its cut per order.
Tips to Protect Your Margins
- Adjust menu pricing slightly to account for the commission.
- Bundle items or offer meal combos to increase average order value.
- Keep an eye on top-selling items in the portal analytics—focus on what sells most and gives the best margins.
Why It’s Worth It
Even with the 20% cut, DoorDash can bring in customers you wouldn’t reach otherwise. Think of it as paying for marketing plus delivery service rolled into one. For most merchants, the extra exposure outweighs the cost.
Track which items bring in the most profit after DoorDash fees. You might find certain dishes are worth promoting more aggressively than others.
DoorDash Merchant Sign Up Requirements
Before you hit that “Sign Up” button, you gotta make sure you’ve got all your ducks in a row. DoorDash isn’t picky for the sake of being picky—they just need to make sure your biz is legit and ready for hungry customers. Here’s the rundown:
Legal Business Info
- You need a legal entity—this could be a registered LLC, corporation, or just a DBA (Doing Business As) if you’re a smaller setup.
- Proof of business license is usually required. This keeps DoorDash in the clear and ensures your customers are dealing with a legit spot.
Menu & Photos
- Your menu needs to be complete, clear, and accurate. No “coming soon” placeholders.
- High-quality photos make a huge difference. Think of it as your online window display—people eat with their eyes first.
Address & Delivery Area
- You need a real, physical location for your restaurant. Home-based? Some areas allow it, but you’ll need to check local rules.
- Set your delivery radius realistically—too big, and orders might arrive cold; too small, and you miss potential customers.
Hours of Operation
Be clear about when you’re open. If your DoorDash profile says “Open 24/7” but you close at 9 PM, it leads to unhappy customers and canceled orders.
Payment Setup
- DoorDash pays you weekly (or sometimes daily in select markets), so you need a bank account ready to receive deposits.
- Make sure your tax info is accurate—this saves headaches down the road.
Optional but Recommended
- POS integration if you want automated order syncing.
- Special instructions for drivers (like best entrance or parking tips).
- Promo ideas ready to attract first-time DoorDash customers.
The smoother your docs and info are, the faster DoorDash can approve your account. Half-baked menus, missing licenses, or blurry photos = delays. Take a little time here, it pays off big when orders start rolling in.
How to Sign Up as a DoorDash Merchant
Thinking about joining DoorDash? You’re not just limited to restaurants—DoorDash partners with a variety of food businesses. Here’s what you need to know before hitting “Sign Up,” plus a detailed step-by-step to get approved fast.
Who Can Sign Up?
DoorDash isn’t just for sit-down restaurants. You can sign up if you run:
- Traditional restaurants (fast food, casual dining, fine dining).
- Cafés & coffee shops (selling drinks, pastries, sandwiches).
- Food trucks & carts (mobile vendors are welcome).
- Grocery stores & convenience stores (selling prepackaged meals or essentials).
- Ghost kitchens / virtual brands (delivery-only setups).
- Bakeries or dessert shops (cupcakes, cakes, cookies, etc.).
Basically, if you have food, drinks, or snacks that people can order online and you can deliver safely, you’re eligible.
Signing up as a DoorDash merchant is easier than you think—but there are a few steps you don’t want to skip. Here’s the full breakdown so you can get your business live and start accepting orders ASAP.
Step 1: Head to the DoorDash Merchant Portal
- Visit DoorDash for Merchants.
- Click “Sign Up” or “Become a DoorDash Partner.”
Step 2: Enter Your Business Information
- Fill out your business name exactly as it appears on your license.
- Input your physical address. (DoorDash needs this to set your delivery area.)
- Choose your business type—this isn’t just for restaurants! You can also register:
- Cafés & coffee shops
- Bakeries & dessert shops
- Food trucks & carts
- Ghost kitchens / virtual brands
- Grocery or convenience stores selling prepared foods
Step 3: Upload Required Legal Documents
- Business license or permits.
- Tax ID or EIN.
- Any other local permits required for food sales or delivery.
Step 4: Add Your Menu & Photos
- Enter every item, price, and clear description.
- Upload high-quality images—these sell your food better than words alone.
- Include allergens and categories so customers can browse easily.
Step 5: Set Your Hours & Delivery Area
- Be honest about opening/closing times.
- Define a delivery radius that makes sense for your kitchen. Start small to ensure orders arrive hot and fresh.
Step 6: Payment Setup
- Add your bank account to receive payouts (weekly or instant in select markets).
- Make sure your tax info is correct to avoid delays.
Step 7: Review Everything
- Double-check all information, photos, and menu details.
- Missing info or blurry photos = slower approval.
Step 8: Submit & Wait for Approval
- Click Submit and relax. DoorDash usually reviews applications in a few days.
- Some merchants get approved in 24–48 hours if everything is perfect.
Tips for a Smooth Sign Up:
- Have all documents and menu info ready before you start.
- Use clear, bright photos of your dishes.
- Set realistic delivery hours and radius.
- Double-check spelling, prices, and allergen info to avoid delays.
DoorDash Merchant Portal Overview
Once you’re approved and live, the DoorDash Merchant Portal becomes your new best friend. Think of it as the control center for your business—where you manage orders, menus, payouts, and promotions. Here’s what you need to know:
Dashboard: Your Command Center
- Order Overview: See active, pending, and completed orders at a glance.
- Sales & Performance Metrics: Track daily, weekly, or monthly earnings. DoorDash even shows you trends so you know which items are hot.
- Notifications: Alerts for new orders, driver issues, or system updates.
Menu Management
- Add/Edit Items: Update prices, descriptions, or photos whenever needed.
- Organize Categories: Make it easy for customers to browse by meals, snacks, drinks, or desserts.
- Menu Availability: Control which items are available at certain times of day (breakfast, lunch, dinner, or late-night).
Promotions & Deals
- Run DoorDash Specials to attract first-time customers.
- Offer discounts or free delivery for select items to boost orders.
- Check performance of promos—DoorDash shows which deals actually drive sales.
Order Management Tips
- Accepting Orders: You can set auto-accept so orders go straight to the kitchen without delay.
- Managing Drivers: Add special instructions for drivers, like parking tips or best entrance.
- Handling Cancellations: Quickly communicate with DoorDash support if an order needs attention.
Payouts & Financials
- View weekly earnings and payout history.
- Track taxes and fees. DoorDash takes a commission per order (usually around 20%), so plan your pricing accordingly.
- Optional: enable instant payouts for faster cash flow.
Tips for Using the Merchant Portal:
- Log in daily to check orders, sales trends, and menu performance.
- Update photos regularly—fresh images sell better.
- Use the portal analytics to see which menu items are top-sellers and adjust inventory accordingly.
Common Issues During Sign Up and How to Fix Them
Even though signing up as a DoorDash merchant is straightforward, some hiccups can slow you down. Here’s a rundown of the most common problems and how to handle them:
Missing or Incorrect Documents
Problem: Business license, tax ID, or permits are missing, expired, or uploaded in the wrong format.
Fix: Double-check your documents before uploading. PDFs or high-res images usually work best. Make sure all info matches your business registration exactly.
Address Verification Issues
Problem: DoorDash can’t verify your location or your delivery radius is unrealistic.
Fix: Use a physical address (no P.O. boxes). Start with a smaller delivery area to increase approval chances. Update once you’re live.
Menu Problems
Problem: Incomplete menu, missing prices, unclear descriptions, or low-quality photos.
Fix: Upload every item with clear pricing and descriptions. High-quality photos make your menu look legit and boost approval.
Payment & Tax Info Issues
Problem: Bank account details or tax info are missing or incorrect.
Fix: Triple-check account numbers, routing info, and tax IDs. Mismatched info can delay payouts and approval.
Slow Approval Times
Problem: Approval taking longer than expected.
Fix: Make sure everything is complete and accurate. Reach out to DoorDash support if it’s been over a week.
Eligibility Confusion
Problem: Some merchants assume only restaurants can join.
Fix: Remember, DoorDash accepts cafés, bakeries, food trucks, ghost kitchens, and even some grocery stores. Include accurate business type info when signing up.
A little prep goes a long way. Have all your docs, photos, menu info, and payment details ready before starting your application. That alone can shave days off your approval process.
Tips to Get Approved Faster
Getting approved on DoorDash doesn’t have to be a headache. Follow these tips, and your merchant account can go live without unnecessary delays.
Have All Documents Ready
- Before you start, make sure your business license, tax ID, and any local permits are scanned and legible.
- Use PDFs or clear images—blurry photos are a common reason for delays.
Prepare Your Menu & Photos in Advance
- Complete menu with accurate pricing and descriptions.
- High-quality images of your dishes make a huge difference. Customers eat with their eyes first!
Be Accurate with Your Business Info
- Double-check your business name, address, and phone number.
- Pick the correct business type (restaurant, café, bakery, food truck, grocery, etc.)—DoorDash verifies eligibility.
Set Realistic Hours & Delivery Area
- Don’t overpromise—set your actual operating hours.
- Start with a smaller delivery radius to ensure orders arrive fresh. You can always expand later.
Optimize Your Online Presence
- Use consistent branding and clear menu descriptions.
- Include any special instructions for drivers (parking tips, loading zones).
- Consider adding a promo or deal—DoorDash likes merchants who actively engage with their platform.
Double-Check Everything Before Submitting
- One missing document or wrong photo can delay approval by days.
- Review all sections carefully before hitting Submit.
Reach Out if Needed
- If approval is taking longer than a week, contact DoorDash Merchant Support.
- Be polite, provide clear info, and include your business name—this usually speeds things up.
Treat your application like a first impression. The cleaner and more professional it looks, the faster DoorDash is likely to approve your account.
After You’re Approved
Congrats! You’re officially a DoorDash merchant. But approval is just the start—the real game begins once your menu is live and orders start coming in. Here’s how to make the most of it.
Activate Your Menu
- Double-check that all menu items, prices, and photos are correct.
- Make sure categories and descriptions are clear. Customers should easily find what they want.
- Set availability per meal period (breakfast, lunch, dinner, late-night) if applicable.
Start Accepting Orders
- DoorDash lets you auto-accept orders, which is handy if you want a smooth workflow.
- Keep the kitchen staff informed about incoming orders to avoid delays.
- Monitor order notifications via the Merchant Portal or app.
Track Sales & Performance
- Check your daily, weekly, and monthly reports to see what’s selling and when.
- Pay attention to top-selling items, peak order times, and order volume trends.
- Adjust your inventory or prep schedule accordingly.
Optimize Your Listings
- Update photos and menu items regularly—fresh images can boost orders.
- Use promotions and specials to attract first-time customers.
- Consider testing combo deals or meal bundles for higher average order value.
Communicate With Drivers
- Add driver instructions for smooth deliveries—best entrance, parking tips, or special handling notes.
- Quick responses to driver messages can prevent delays and negative ratings.
Handle Customer Feedback
- Positive reviews help your profile stand out.
- Respond politely to issues—DoorDash values merchants who maintain good customer service.
Think of your DoorDash profile like your digital storefront. Keep it updated, clear, and appealing. A well-managed account means happier customers and more orders rolling in.
Alternatives and Comparisons
While DoorDash is huge, it’s not your only option. If you’re thinking about going digital with your food business, it’s smart to know the alternatives and what makes each one different.
1. Uber Eats
Pros: Large user base, easy-to-use app, fast approval for some regions.
Cons: Slightly higher commission rates in some areas.
Tip: Great for restaurants that already have a loyal customer base—they can reach new folks fast.
2. Grubhub
Pros: Strong in urban areas, solid marketing options, detailed reporting.
Cons: Can be competitive; smaller cities might have fewer users.
Tip: Good choice if you want detailed insights into customer ordering patterns.
3. Postmates (Now Owned by Uber)
Pros: Flexible for smaller or unusual businesses (cafés, convenience stores, ghost kitchens).
Cons: Somewhat limited reach in smaller towns compared to DoorDash.
Tip: Consider if you sell snacks, groceries, or non-traditional meals.
Why DoorDash Might Be Better
- Large national footprint with millions of users.
- Supports a wide variety of business types (restaurants, bakeries, food trucks, ghost kitchens, even grocery stores).
- Straightforward merchant portal and analytics.
- Marketing and promotions are integrated within the app.
Choosing the Right Platform
- Consider your target market—where do your customers actually order from?
- Compare fees, commissions, and promotions.
- Some merchants join multiple platforms to maximize reach—but keep operations manageable.
Start with one platform, get comfortable with order flow, and then consider expanding. DoorDash is a strong first choice for most U.S. food businesses because of its reach and variety of business types supported.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Here’s a quick rundown of the most common questions from merchants signing up for DoorDash:
Q1: How long does it take to get approved?
Usually a few days to a week. Some merchants get approved in 24–48 hours if all documents, menu info, and photos are ready.
Q2: Can home-based food businesses sign up?
It depends on local laws. Some areas allow home-based kitchens (like cottage food laws), but most require a physical commercial location. Always check local regulations.
Q3: How much commission does DoorDash take?
DoorDash typically takes around 20% per order, including delivery fees. Optional promotions or ads may cost extra.
Q4: Can I run multiple locations under one account?
Yes! DoorDash allows multiple locations, but each must have its own address, menu, and setup info.
Q5: What types of businesses can sign up besides restaurants?
Cafés, bakeries, dessert shops, food trucks, ghost kitchens, and some grocery or convenience stores selling prepared foods.
Q6: What if I need help during the sign-up process?
DoorDash Merchant Support is available via chat, email, or phone. Make sure to provide your business name and details for faster help.
Q7: Can I update my menu or hours later?
Absolutely. The Merchant Portal lets you edit menu items, photos, prices, and operating hours anytime.
Q8: How do I handle promotions and deals?
You can run DoorDash Specials or discounts directly through the portal. Monitor performance and adjust as needed.
Q9: How soon do I get paid?
Payments are typically weekly, but some merchants can enable instant payouts for faster cash flow.
Q10: Can I join other delivery platforms too?
Yes, many merchants use multiple platforms (Uber Eats, Grubhub, Postmates) to increase reach. Just make sure operations stay manageable.
Keep this FAQ handy—it answers the majority of questions merchants have during sign-up and early operations, saving time and stress.
Conclusion
Alright, now you know the drill. Signing up as a DoorDash merchant is one of the smartest moves you can make to grow your food business in the U.S. Whether you run a restaurant, café, bakery, food truck, ghost kitchen, or even a grocery store with prepared foods, DoorDash gives you instant access to millions of hungry customers.
Here’s the recap:
- Prepare your docs, menu, and photos before starting.
- Follow the step-by-step sign-up process carefully to avoid delays.
- Use the Merchant Portal to manage orders, track performance, and run promos.
- Pay attention to fees and commission, but remember the exposure and extra sales usually outweigh the cost.
- Optimize your profile and menu continuously—fresh photos and updated hours keep orders coming in.
Getting approved is just the start. Once you’re live, monitor your orders, tweak your offerings, and use the portal analytics to maximize your profits. DoorDash makes it simple, but your business thrives when you stay proactive.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up as a DoorDash merchant today and start reaching a whole new crowd of customers ready to order your food right to their door. Your next big boost in sales could be just a few clicks away.

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