Alright, so you’re thinking about signing up as a Grubhub driver. Good move! Driving for Grubhub isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it’s about flexibility, extra cash, and being your own boss.
In the U.S., Grubhub’s one of the top food delivery platforms, meaning there’s a ton of orders rolling in daily. Whether you’re looking for side hustle money or a full-time gig, this platform’s pretty beginner-friendly. Unlike some apps that can be picky, Grubhub lets you jump in fast, provided you meet the basics.
Here’s the thing—you get to choose your hours. Wanna work mornings, evenings, weekends, or just a couple of hours a day? No problem. Plus, you get to earn tips directly from customers, which can bump up your earnings big time.
Think about it: if you’re in a city with busy neighborhoods and lots of restaurants, chances are you’ll get plenty of orders rolling in. And the best part? You don’t need crazy experience or fancy credentials—just a valid license, a ride, and a smartphone.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know step by step how to apply, get approved, and start your first shift without any headaches.
Eligibility Requirements
Alright fam, before you even hit that “apply” button, let’s break down what you actually need to get rolling as a Grubhub driver in the U.S. No stress, no corporate jargon—just straight-up info you can use.
Age Requirement
First things first, you gotta be old enough. Most states want you to be at least 19, while some require 21. No cheating here—Grubhub’s gonna check it. If you’re underage, nah, better wait a bit.
Driver’s License & ID
- Car drivers: need a valid U.S. driver’s license.
- Bike or scooter drivers: a state-issued ID usually works, but check your city rules.
Make sure your license isn’t expired. Grubhub will reject your application if your license or ID is invalid.
Vehicle Requirements
If you’re delivering by car, here’s what you need:
- Street-legal & insured: Yep, the car needs to be legit on the road. Insurance is a must—Grubhub will ask for proof.
- Condition matters: While they don’t require a physical inspection, make sure your ride runs smooth, brakes work, tires are decent, and lights/lenses aren’t busted. You don’t want drama when you’re on your first shift.
- Car age: Some cities prefer newer vehicles, but generally, anything in good working condition is fine.
Heads-up: Unlike Uber or Lyft, Grubhub doesn’t make you bring your car in for inspection. No lines, no garage visits—just your documents and your wheels. This is a huge win if you wanna start quick.
For bike or scooter deliveries, nothing too strict. Just make sure your ride is safe, tires are good, and it can handle a few miles without falling apart.
Smartphone Requirement
- You must have a smartphone (iOS or Android) to run the Grubhub driver app.
- Make sure your GPS works and the battery holds up.
Older phones sometimes struggle with app updates, maps, or push notifications—don’t be that driver constantly lost in the sauce.
Background & DMV Check
Grubhub runs a criminal background check and a driving history check via the DMV. They’re mostly looking for major issues like felonies, DUIs, or reckless driving. Minor infractions? Might be okay, but honesty is key.
Pro Tips for Smooth Approval:
- Double-check your documents: expired insurance or license = automatic delay.
- Keep your vehicle in safe working condition—even if there’s no inspection, safety first.
- Make sure your phone is ready to run the app without glitches.
Once all that’s squared away, you’re basically cleared to move to the next step: creating your Grubhub driver account.
Creating Your Grubhub Driver Account
Alright, now that you’ve got your docs, ride, and phone all set, it’s time to actually create your Grubhub driver account. Don’t worry—it’s not rocket science, just a few clicks and uploads. Let’s break it down.
1. Choose How You Apply
- You can either apply through the Grubhub website or download the Grubhub for Drivers app. Both work, it’s just a matter of preference.
- If you’re on the go, the app is super convenient—you can literally start your application from your phone while sipping your morning coffee.
Enter Personal Info
- First things first, Grubhub needs the basics: full name, email, phone number, home address.
- Make sure your info matches your ID. Any mismatch can slow down approval.
Use an email you actually check. You’ll get updates about background checks and approval here.
Pick Your Delivery Mode
Car, bike, or scooter? You gotta choose.
- For cars: make sure your insurance and registration are ready.
- For bikes/scooters: make sure your ID is valid.
Upload Documents
This is where you show Grubhub you’re legit.
- Driver’s license
- Insurance (for cars)
- Vehicle registration (for cars)
- State ID (for bike/scooter drivers if required)
Scan or take clear pictures. Blurry uploads = delays.
No stress about vehicle inspection—Grubhub doesn’t require you to bring your car in. Just make sure your vehicle info is accurate.
Background & DMV Check Info
- You’ll be asked to give your social security number for background checks.
- This is standard, so no freakout. Grubhub partners with third-party services to check your criminal record and driving history.
- Most checks take a few days to a week, depending on your state.
Direct Deposit Setup
Before you get rolling, set up how you wanna get paid.
- Enter your bank account info for direct deposit.
- You can choose weekly payouts or instant pay if you want cash fast.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Make sure your docs are current and clear.
- Use a good email & phone number—Grubhub communicates a lot via these.
- Don’t rush through—careless typos can hold up approval.
- While waiting, maybe check your app notifications daily—some states require you to confirm a few details after upload.
Once this step is done, you’re basically in line for approval. Next up? Background check passes, payment setup, and getting your first order rolling.
Uploading Required Documents & Background Check
Alright fam, now comes the part where you prove you’re legit. This step is super important because Grubhub won’t let you hit the streets without it. Think of it like a VIP pass—you need the docs to unlock your delivery hustle.
2. Uploading Your Documents
Once you’re in the app or website, you’ll be prompted to upload your documents. Here’s what Grubhub usually asks for:
- Driver’s license (for car drivers)
- Vehicle registration (for cars)
- Insurance proof (for cars)
- State ID (for bike/scooter deliveries, if required)
Snap clear pics in good lighting. Blurry uploads = delays, and nobody wants to wait a week just because the DMV ID photo was fuzzy.
Vehicle inspection? Don’t stress. Grubhub does NOT require a physical inspection. Yup, no garage trips, no awkward “is this car clean enough?” moments. Just make sure your info is accurate and your ride is safe and roadworthy.
Background Check
Next, Grubhub runs a background check through a third-party service. They’re mostly looking for:
- Criminal history (felonies matter, minor stuff usually okay)
- Driving record (DUIs, reckless driving, etc.)
This can take a few days to a week, depending on your state and how fast the background service processes info.
Be honest. Any sketchy info or mismatch with your documents can hold up approval or get your app rejected.
DMV Check
- For car drivers, Grubhub also checks your driving record through the DMV.
- They want to see that your license is clean enough for delivery work.
- This is all electronic—no need to go to the DMV office yourself.
Waiting Game & Tips
- After uploading docs and submitting background check info, you’re in the “approval queue.”
- Check your email and app notifications daily. Grubhub might ask for additional info or clarifications.
- Don’t panic if it takes a few days—most drivers get approved within 3-7 days, sometimes faster.
Once you’ve cleared the documents and background check, you’re basically ready to move on to picking your delivery mode, setting up payment, and going live with your first orders.
3. Vehicle Selection & Setup
Alright fam, now that your docs are approved and background check is clear, it’s time to pick your ride and make sure you’re ready to hit the streets. Grubhub gives you options, so let’s break it down.
Choosing Your Delivery Mode
Grubhub lets you deliver by:
- Car – Best for long distances, higher pay per order, and more flexibility in bad weather.
- Bike – Great for dense city areas, short trips, and avoiding parking headaches.
- Scooter – Middle ground: faster than a bike, cheaper than a car, and perfect for short-to-medium distances.
Pick the mode that matches your city, lifestyle, and budget. Big city downtown? Bike might be faster than sitting in traffic. Suburbs? Car is king.
Vehicle Requirements Recap
- Car: Must be street-legal, insured, and in good working condition. No inspection required.
- Bike/Scooter: Must be safe to ride, functional brakes, tires in good shape. Some cities require a helmet—play it safe.
- Make sure your ride is comfortable—you’ll spend hours on it. A squeaky bike or rattling car can be annoying real quick.
Setup in the App
Once you pick your ride, enter the info in the Grubhub app:
- Car: Make, model, year, insurance details, license plate.
- Bike/Scooter: Type, city regulations info if needed.
Double-check everything—you don’t want a typo holding up your approval.
Optional Accessories
- Insulated bag: Almost mandatory for food deliveries—keeps orders hot or cold.
- Phone mount: Keeps GPS visible and safe while driving or biking.
- Portable charger: Keeps your phone alive during long shifts.
Tips:
- Even though no official inspection is needed, take a moment to check your vehicle yourself: brakes, tires, lights, signals. Safety first.
- Clean interior/trunk—customers notice if you’re delivering a messy ride.
- Test GPS and app functionality before your first shift so you’re not panicking mid-delivery.
Once your vehicle is set up in the app, you’re almost ready to start getting paid.
4. Payment Setup
Alright fam, now that your vehicle is ready and approved, it’s time to talk about the part we all really care about—getting paid.
Setting Up Direct Deposit
Grubhub pays via direct deposit, so you’ll need a bank account.
In the app, go to the “Payment” or “Bank Info” section and enter:
- Bank account number
- Routing number
- Account type (checking or savings)
- Double-check this info! A typo = no money. And yeah, nobody wants that stress.
Payment Options
Grubhub has a couple ways to get your cash:
- Weekly deposit: Money hits your bank every week.
- Instant pay: Want cash ASAP? You can transfer earnings instantly to a debit card, usually for a small fee. This is clutch if you need money fast.
Understanding How You Get Paid
- Grubhub pays base pay + tips + any bonuses or incentives.
- Base pay depends on distance, time, and complexity of the delivery.
- Tips go directly to you—and yes, sometimes they can be bigger than the base pay!
- Bonuses happen during peak hours or special promotions. Keep an eye on the app notifications.
Taxes & Documentation
- Grubhub treats you as an independent contractor, so taxes are on you.
- At the end of the year, you’ll get a 1099 form to report earnings.
Keep track of mileage and expenses—they’re deductible and save you money on taxes.
Tips for Smooth Payment:
- Make sure your bank info matches your legal name exactly.
- Keep a backup bank account if you can—just in case something goes funky.
- Check your app after your first deliveries to make sure payments are recording correctly.
Once your payment info is set, you’re basically ready to go live and start taking orders. All that’s left is the final approval and first delivery tips—the fun part where the money starts rolling in.
5. Final Approval & Going Live
Alright fam, you’ve made it this far—documents approved, background check clear, vehicle set up, and payment ready. Now comes the fun part: going live and taking your first order.
Waiting for Final Approval
After submitting everything, Grubhub will give you a final thumbs-up.
This usually happens within a few days, depending on your state and how fast they process your info.
Keep your email and app notifications handy—Grubhub might hit you up for extra info or confirmation.
Going Online in the App
- Once approved, open the Grubhub for Drivers app.
- Hit the “Go Online” button—this tells the app you’re ready to accept orders.
You can go online anytime you want—morning, afternoon, or late-night hustle. Flexibility is the best part of this gig.
First Delivery Tips
- Check the order details carefully: pickup location, drop-off, and any special instructions.
- Use GPS, but stay alert—sometimes shortcuts or side streets are faster.
- Keep your insulated delivery bag ready to make sure food stays hot or cold.
Be polite and professional—tips come easy if you’re friendly and timely.
Safety First
- Always follow traffic rules. No speeding or cutting corners just to finish faster.
- Keep your phone mounted or in a safe spot—don’t hold it while riding or driving.
- Know your neighborhood—avoid sketchy areas, especially at night.
Managing Your Schedule
- Grubhub is flexible—you can go online or offline anytime.
- Peak hours = more orders and better pay. Try lunchtime (11am–2pm) and dinner (5pm–9pm).
- Take breaks when needed. Don’t burn out; this is a marathon, not a sprint.
Tips for a Smooth Start
- Familiarize yourself with the app before your first delivery. Practice navigating menus and order details.
- Keep your vehicle/bike ready—clean, safe, and equipped with bags, phone charger, water, etc.
- Start slow—take a few easy orders first to get the hang of timing and navigation.
- Track your earnings—know how much you’re making per order to optimize routes and times.
Once you’re live and taking orders, the grind begins, but you’re in control. Your first week might feel a little hectic, but the more you drive, the smoother it gets. And remember: tips, bonuses, and peak-hour hustles are where the real cash comes in.
Tips for a Smooth Application & First Deliveries
Alright fam, you’ve gone through all the steps—docs, background check, vehicle, payment, and now you’re live. But let’s be real, starting out can feel a little overwhelming. Here’s how to make your first week as smooth as possible.
Nail Your Application From the Start
- Make sure all documents are clear and up-to-date. Blurry pics or expired IDs = delays.
- Double-check your personal info—name, DOB, address. Even small typos can hold up approval.
- Respond quickly to any app or email requests from Grubhub. Don’t leave them hanging.
Know Your Gear
- Car drivers: Check brakes, lights, tires, and that your air conditioning/heating works. Insulated bag? Ready.
- Bike/Scooter: Make sure tires are pumped, brakes function, and helmet fits snug.
- Phone & GPS: Fully charged, mounted safely, and with a backup charger if possible.
Start Slow
- Don’t bite off more than you can chew on your first day. Take a couple of orders to get the hang of timing, pickups, and app navigation.
- Learn your best routes—shortcuts, traffic patterns, and busy streets make a difference.
Maximize Earnings
- Peak hours are your friend: lunch (11am–2pm) and dinner (5pm–9pm) usually have more orders and bigger tips.
- Hot spots: Some areas in the city get more orders. Pay attention in the app—Grubhub sometimes highlights these.
Customer service matters: Friendly, prompt, and careful delivery = bigger tips.
Stay Safe
- Follow traffic rules—speeding or reckless maneuvers aren’t worth the risk.
- Keep your phone in a safe mount, don’t text while driving/biking.
- Know your neighborhood and avoid unsafe areas, especially at night.
Track Your Progress
- Keep an eye on your earnings per shift and per order. This helps you figure out the most profitable hours and routes.
- Track expenses if you’re driving a car—gas, maintenance, and mileage are deductible.
Stay Flexible
- Some days will be slow; others will be hectic. Go with the flow.
- Grubhub lets you go online/offline anytime—use that flexibility wisely.
- Take breaks if you need them—burnout kills motivation fast.
Learn From Experience
- Every delivery teaches you something: faster routes, better bag handling, customer preferences.
- Keep notes or mental tips for yourself. You’ll get smoother and faster with time.
By following these tips, your first few weeks will be way less stressful, and you’ll start earning consistently and efficiently. Remember, it’s all about being prepared, staying safe, and learning the ropes.
Why Your Grubhub Application Might Get Rejected
Alright fam, sometimes even if you think you’ve done everything right, Grubhub can hit you with a “sorry, can’t approve” email. Here’s the scoop on the most common reasons and how to avoid them.
Age Requirement Not Met
- Grubhub wants you 19+ (or 21 in some states).
- If your ID shows you’re younger, automatic rejection.
Tip: Wait it out or check if your city has exceptions (rare).
Invalid or Expired Driver’s License / ID
- If your license has expired or the info doesn’t match what you typed in the app, they’ll reject you.
- Double-check all dates and spellings.
Insurance or Vehicle Issues
- Car drivers must have current insurance. No insurance = no go.
- Incorrect registration info can also trigger rejection.
Remember, Grubhub doesn’t require physical inspection, but if your documents aren’t legit, that’s a dealbreaker.
Background Check Fails
- Grubhub looks at criminal history and driving records.
- Felonies, DUIs, or reckless driving can block your application.
- Minor stuff might be okay, but honesty is key—don’t try to fake info.
Poor Document Uploads
- Blurry photos, wrong file types, missing pages—these can slow down or reject your application.
Scan or take clear pictures in good lighting.
Mismatched Info
- Name on license doesn’t match bank account?
- Address on ID doesn’t match app?
Even small mismatches can trigger rejection.
Not Meeting Vehicle Requirements
- Even if there’s no inspection, the vehicle must be roadworthy, safe, and insured.
- Old, unsafe, or unregistered vehicles can cause a “no-go.”
Incomplete Application
Forgetting to fill certain fields, skip uploading docs, or ignoring app notifications = delayed or rejected application.
Tips to Avoid Rejection:
- Double-check everything before submitting.
- Be honest in your background info.
- Make sure your vehicle and documents are valid and up-to-date.
- Respond to any requests from Grubhub quickly.
Even if you get rejected, don’t stress. Most issues are fixable, and you can reapply once everything is squared away.
Conclusion
Alright fam, you’ve made it all the way through—requirements, application, background check, vehicle setup, payment, and going live. That’s no small feat, and you should be proud.
Being a Grubhub driver in the U.S. is all about flexibility, hustle, and smart work. You get to pick your hours, control your workload, and earn extra cash on your own terms. Whether you’re doing it for side money or planning to go full-time, the steps we covered will make sure you start strong.
Here’s the takeaway:
- Prepare everything upfront—documents, vehicle, and phone. This avoids delays.
- Stay honest and accurate—background checks, license info, bank info. Mistakes can slow you down or get you rejected.
- Start slow and learn—your first deliveries might be a little messy, but each one teaches you something.
- Safety first—always follow traffic rules, keep your phone mounted, and ride/drive responsibly.
- Track your earnings and tips—know which hours, areas, and orders pay best.
The key to success is consistency and patience. Your first week might feel like a rollercoaster, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be earning confidently and efficiently. And remember: tips, peak hours, and hot spots are your friends—use them to maximize earnings.
So go ahead, hit that apply button, and start your Grubhub driver journey. The road is yours, the cash is waiting, and the freedom? Priceless.

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