Last updated on October 7th, 2025 at 07:22 am
Can a Felon Be a DoorDash Driver? Thinking about becoming a DoorDash driver? You might wonder if a felony conviction will stop you. DoorDash’s background check is key to seeing if you can drive for them.
To be a DoorDash driver, you need to meet some basic requirements. You must be at least 18, have a valid driver’s license, and own a vehicle. But, if you have a felony, it might change things.
It’s important to know how DoorDash checks your background and what they look for. We’ll dive into how a felony can affect your chances of becoming a DoorDash driver.
Contents
- 1 DoorDash Background Check Policy
- 2 Types of Background Checks Conducted by DoorDash
- 3 Can a Felon Be a DoorDash Driver?
- 4 Types of Felonies That May Disqualify You
- 5 Factors That Improve Your Chances of Approval
- 6 Steps to Apply for DoorDash with a Criminal Record
- 7 Alternative Gig Economy Options for Felons
- 8 Conclusion: Can a Felon Be a DoorDash Driver?
- 9 FAQ
- 9.1 What disqualifies you from being a DoorDash driver?
- 9.2 Does DoorDash hire people with felony convictions?
- 9.3 How does DoorDash conduct background checks?
- 9.4 Can you be a DoorDash driver with a misdemeanor?
- 9.5 What are the requirements to be a DoorDash driver?
- 9.6 How long does DoorDash background check take?
- 9.7 Can I appeal a denied DoorDash application due to a felony conviction?
- 9.8 Are there other gig economy jobs available if I’m denied by DoorDash?
DoorDash Background Check Policy
To become a DoorDash driver, you must pass a background check. This check looks at your driving and criminal history. It’s a key part of DoorDash’s safety checks for drivers and customers.
DoorDash uses a third-party service for these checks. They look at your driving record and any past crimes.
Types of Background Checks Conducted by DoorDash
DoorDash does a few types of background checks:
- Criminal history check: This looks at your past crimes, big or small.
- Driving record check: This checks your driving history, including accidents or tickets.
DoorDash’s checks are detailed to ensure safety. Knowing what DoorDash looks for can help you prepare.
Can a Felon Be a DoorDash Driver?
DoorDash decides if a felon can be a driver based on each case. They look at many factors to see if someone fits in with DoorDash.
When you apply, you’ll get a background check. This check is important to see if your felony stops you from being a driver. DoorDash uses a third-party service to check your criminal and driving records.
The type of felony you have matters a lot. For example, crimes like violence, theft, or fraud are looked at more closely. They also check how long ago you were convicted and your driving history.
Here are some key factors that influence DoorDash’s evaluation:
- The type and severity of the felony
- The time since the conviction
- Your driving record
- Other relevant background information
Having a felony doesn’t mean you can’t be a driver. But, each application is looked at differently. If you’re a felon wanting to drive for DoorDash, be truthful and meet DoorDash’s basic requirements.
DoorDash wants to give chances to people from all walks of life. They look at each application to make sure their community is fair and open to everyone.
Types of Felonies That May Disqualify You
If you want to be a DoorDash driver, knowing which felonies might stop you is key. DoorDash checks the backgrounds of all drivers. Some felony convictions can keep you from driving for them.
Violent crimes, sexual offenses, and felony DUIs are among the felonies that might block your way. Violent felonies are especially serious. Assault, robbery, or murder convictions can hurt your chances a lot.
- Violent crimes, such as assault or battery
- Sexual offenses, including sex crimes or exploitation
- Felony DUIs or other serious driving offenses
- Crimes involving theft or property damage
- Drug trafficking or distribution offenses
The severity and when you were convicted also matter to DoorDash. More serious crimes or recent convictions can affect your chances more.
Knowing about these rules can help you figure out if you can still be a DoorDash driver with a felony. It’s about understanding the risks and what your record might mean.
Factors That Improve Your Chances of Approval
A felony conviction can make it harder to get approved for DoorDash. But, there are things you can do to help your chances. Knowing these can make your application process smoother.
The type of felony you have matters a lot. DoorDash looks at each case differently. Non-violent felonies might be seen as less serious than violent ones. Showing you’ve been good since your conviction can also help.
To get better at your application, start by making sure your driving record is clean. Having a valid driver’s license and a safe driving history is key. Also, having a reliable car and proof of insurance is important.
How you fill out your application is also crucial. Make sure it’s complete, accurate, and has all needed documents. Being honest and thorough can make a good impression.
- Point out any rehabilitation efforts or community service you’ve done since your conviction.
- Include any certifications or training that show you’re a responsible driver.
By focusing on these points and presenting a strong application, you can boost your chances of getting approved for DoorDash, even with a felony.
Steps to Apply for DoorDash with a Criminal Record
You can still apply to be a DoorDash driver even with a felony conviction. Just follow a few simple steps. DoorDash looks at each application individually, so a felony doesn’t mean you’re out.
First, make sure you meet the basic requirements. You must be at least 18, have a valid driver’s license, and own a vehicle. Then, start the application process.
- Create a DoorDash account on their website or through the app.
- Fill out the application form, providing accurate information about your background, including your felony conviction if required.
- Consent to a background check, which will be conducted by a third-party service.
- Wait for the results of your background check, which may take a few days.
- If approved, set up your delivery preferences and start dashing.
It’s crucial to be honest during the application process. Lying about your criminal history can get your application denied. It can also lead to termination if discovered later.
After applying, DoorDash will review your information, including your criminal record. They’ll consider many factors, like the type of felony and how long ago it happened.
By being truthful and following these steps, you can apply to be a DoorDash driver even with a felony conviction.
Alternative Gig Economy Options for Felons
As a felon, you can explore alternative gig economy jobs. These jobs might be more accessible than working with companies like DoorDash.
Several gig economy options are available, offering a range of opportunities. Some of these include:
- Working as a freelance writer or editor
- Driving for companies like Uber or Lyft
- Participating in online surveys or focus groups
- Delivering groceries with services like Shipt or Instacart
- TaskRabbit, which involves completing various tasks and errands
These alternative jobs provide a chance to rebuild your career and earn a living despite having a felony record. When exploring these options, consider the requirements and background check policies of each company.

By diversifying your options and understanding the terms of each gig economy job, you can make informed decisions about your career path.
Researching these opportunities thoroughly will help you find the best fit for your skills and experience.
Conclusion: Can a Felon Be a DoorDash Driver?
You now know how DoorDash’s background check policy works for people with felonies. DoorDash doesn’t automatically say no to felons. But, some things can affect if you get approved.
When you apply to be a DoorDash driver, your past crimes matter a lot. The type of felony and how long ago it happened can change if you get to drive.
If you have a felony and want to drive for DoorDash, being honest about your past can help. Make sure you meet all the other requirements too. You might also look into other jobs in the gig economy if DoorDash isn’t right for you.
Getting to drive for DoorDash with a felony depends on a few things. These include the kind of felony you have and your whole application. Knowing these details helps you decide if being a DoorDash driver is right for you.
See Also: Can a Felon Be a Firefighter in Texas?
FAQ
What disqualifies you from being a DoorDash driver?
You can’t be a DoorDash driver if you’ve been convicted of violent crimes, theft, or driving under the influence (DUI).
Does DoorDash hire people with felony convictions?
DoorDash looks at each case differently. They consider the crime, how long ago it happened, and other factors.
How does DoorDash conduct background checks?
DoorDash uses a third-party service for background checks. They check your driving record, criminal history, and more.
Can you be a DoorDash driver with a misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor doesn’t always mean you can’t be a DoorDash driver. They’ll look at the specifics of your case.
What are the requirements to be a DoorDash driver?
To drive for DoorDash, you must be 18 or older, have a valid driver’s license, a vehicle, and pass a background check.
How long does DoorDash background check take?
DoorDash’s background check usually takes a few days. But it can take longer if your record is complex.
Can I appeal a denied DoorDash application due to a felony conviction?
Yes, you can appeal by reaching out to DoorDash’s support team. Share more about your conviction.
Are there other gig economy jobs available if I’m denied by DoorDash?
Yes, you can try other jobs like Uber Eats, GrubHub, or other food delivery services. They might be more open to people with felony convictions.

Van Maldonado, born in California, holds a degree in Criminology and Police Science. Currently serving as an investigative officer at a local police station, he spends his leisure time writing insightful content for FelonScope.com.