DoorDash as a Side Hustle: My Week in the Driver’s Seat

You know that feeling when you’re scrolling through job listings, hoping to find something – anything – to bring in some extra cash? That’s where I found myself last month. Bills were piling up, and my main gig wasn’t cutting it.

Then I saw it. Another DoorDash ad. Usually, I’d scroll right past. But this time, I paused. Was this the answer I’d been looking for?

I’ll be honest – I was skeptical. We’ve all heard stories about gig work. Some swear by it, others warn you to stay away. But I needed to know for myself.

So, I signed up. Downloaded the app. And for one full week, I became a Dasher.

What followed was eye-opening, to say the least. There were moments of “Hey, this isn’t so bad,” and others where I seriously questioned my choices.

But here’s the thing – my experience might be exactly what you need to hear before you take the plunge. Or maybe it’ll save you from making a mistake. Either way, I’m laying it all out there.

From that first ping on my phone to the final tally in my account, here’s the real deal on DoorDash as a side hustle. No fluff, no agenda – just what happened when I hit the road.

How Does DoorDash Side Hustle Work?

When I first signed up, I was clueless. But after a week in the trenches, here’s the real deal:

Accepting Orders & Scheduling

DoorDash gives you two ways to jump in: schedule ahead or go on-demand. I tried both, and let me tell you, there’s a strategy to it.

Scheduling felt like having a safety net. You block out your hours, and you’re guaranteed to dash. But here’s the catch – popular times get snatched up fast. I found myself setting alarms just to grab those prime dinner slots.

Then there’s the “Dash Now” button. It’s like the wild west of food delivery. When it’s busy, the map lights up red, and you can hop in instantly. Sounds great, right? Well, sometimes it is. But other times, you’re competing with every other Dasher who had the same idea. I had days where I sat in a parking lot for an hour, watching tumbleweeds roll by on my screen.

Pickup & Paying For Orders

This is where the rubber meets the road – or in this case, where the Dasher meets the restaurant. It’s not just about driving; you’re now a food courier, and sometimes, a diplomat.

Most pickups are smooth. You waltz in, say you’re with DoorDash, grab the order, and you’re out. But then there are the others…

I once waited 30 minutes for a burger joint to finish an order. The staff was overwhelmed, customers were grumbling, and I was caught in the crossfire. You learn to be patient, but also when to cut your losses.

As for paying, most orders are pre-paid through the app. But occasionally, you’ll need to use the DoorDash red card. It’s like a company credit card. Sounds simple, but the first time I had to use it, I felt like I was diffusing a bomb. “Swipe, enter the exact amount, pray it goes through.”

DoorDash Delivery Process

On paper, this is the easy part. In reality, it’s where things get interesting.

GPS is your best friend and worst enemy. Most of the time, it’s spot on. But then you get those addresses. You know the ones – where the pin drops you in the middle of nowhere, and you’re playing detective to find the actual house.

I delivered to apartments, offices, even a construction site once. Each one’s a new adventure. You learn to read instructions carefully. “Leave at door” sounds simple until you’re faced with a maze-like apartment complex at night.

The best advice I can give?

DoorDash Requirements & Signing Up

Driver & Vehicle Requirements

Here’s the deal – DoorDash isn’t super picky, but they have standards. You need to be at least 18, have a valid driver’s license, and pass a background check.

As for your ride, almost any car will do. Heck, in some areas, you can even dash on a bicycle or scooter. But here’s what they don’t tell you upfront – your car’s condition matters. Sure, it doesn’t need to be a luxury sedan, but if it’s belching smoke or making sounds like a dying whale, you might run into issues.

I drive a 10-year-old Honda, and it’s been fine. But I made sure my brakes were solid and my tires had good tread before I started. Trust me, when you’re making multiple stops in all kinds of weather, you’ll thank yourself for having a reliable ride.

Signup Process For New Dashers

Signing up was surprisingly painless. It’s all online, and it took me maybe 15 minutes tops. You fill out basic info, agree to a background check, and upload your license and insurance info.

The background check was the only part that made me sweat a little. Not because I have a sketchy past, but because waiting is the worst. It took about 24 hours for mine to clear. Some people I’ve talked to had it done in hours, others waited a few days.

Once you’re cleared, you get access to the Dasher app. They offer an orientation, but let’s be real – most of us just dive in. Looking back, I probably should have paid more attention to those intro videos. Might have saved me from a few rookie mistakes.

Oh, and the red card and your hot bag? They mail those to you, but you can start dashing before they arrive. Just don’t accept any red card orders until you have it in hand.

Is DoorDash as a Side Hustle Worth it?

Now, the moment of truth. After a week of dashing, was it worth it? Well, it’s complicated.

How Much Does DoorDash Pay?

• Average hourly rates

Here’s the thing about DoorDash pay – it’s all over the place. Some hours I was making $25-30. Others, I was lucky to hit $10. On average, I landed around $17 an hour before expenses.

But averages can be misleading. One Friday night, I made $100 in three hours. The next morning, I made $20 in two hours. It’s feast or famine.

• Factors affecting pay

Time of day is huge. Lunch and dinner rushes are your bread and butter. I learned to avoid breakfast hours in my area – it was dead.

Location matters too. I experimented with different parts of town. The affluent suburbs tipped better, but orders were fewer. Downtown was constant orders, but more hassle with parking and apartment deliveries.

And let’s talk about tips. They can make or break your night. Some people tip generously; others… well, let’s just say there’s a special place for people who don’t tip their delivery drivers.

Is DoorDash Worth It After Taxes?

This is where things get sobering. As an independent contractor, taxes aren’t withheld from your earnings. That means you’re on the hook come tax time.

I set aside about 25-30% of my earnings for taxes. It feels like a lot, and it is. But there’s a silver lining – deductions. Every mile you drive for DoorDash is deductible. So is a portion of your phone bill, and any supplies you buy for dashing.

I started using a mileage tracking app from day one. Trust me, those miles add up, and they can significantly reduce your tax bill.

DoorDash Earn By Time Feature

DoorDash rolled out this new pay model in some areas. Instead of getting paid per delivery, you earn a set amount per hour plus 100% of tips.

Sounds great, right? Well, it’s a mixed bag. On slow days, it’s nice to have that guaranteed hourly rate. But on busy days, you might earn less than you would per delivery.

I tried it for a few shifts. It took some stress out of deciding which orders to accept. But I also felt like I was missing out on those high-paying unicorn orders.

My take? It’s good for consistency, but you might cap your earning potential. Like everything with DoorDash, you’ve got to try it in your area and see how it pans out.

Maximizing Your DoorDash Side Hustle Income

After a week of trial and error, I learned that there’s more to this side gig than just accepting orders and driving. Here’s how to squeeze the most out of your dashing time:

Tips for efficient deliveries

First off, invest in a good phone mount and a reliable charger. You’ll be glued to your phone, and the last thing you need is a dead battery mid-shift.

I learned to be picky with orders. That $3 order for a 7-mile drive? Not worth it. I started aiming for at least $1 per mile. It feels weird declining orders at first, but trust me bro, it pays off.

Stacked orders became my best friend. These are multiple orders from the same restaurant or in the same direction. They can really boost your hourly rate. Just make sure you can handle the juggling act.

Best times to dash

Dinner time is king, especially Thursday through Sunday. I made the bulk of my money between 5 PM and 9 PM.

Lunch can be hit or miss. In business districts, it was solid. In residential areas, not so much.

Late night can be lucrative if you’re in a college town or city with a bustling nightlife. Just be prepared for a lot of fast food runs.

Promotions and bonuses

DoorDash loves to throw out challenges and bonuses. I got a “complete 15 deliveries for an extra $30” offer my first weekend. It motivated me to push through when I might have called it quits.

Peak pay is your friend. These are usually offered during busy times or bad weather. I saw offers ranging from $1 to $5 extra per delivery. When you see these, grab them.

DoorDash vs. Other Side Gigs

Comparison with other food delivery services

I’ve got friends who drive for Uber Eats and Grubhub, so we compared notes. Honestly? They’re pretty similar. DoorDash seemed to be busier in my area, but that can vary city to city.

One edge DoorDash has is the ability to schedule in advance. Uber Eats and Grubhub are more focused on the “go online anytime” model.

DoorDash vs. traditional part-time jobs

The flexibility of DoorDash is hard to beat. No boss breathing down your neck, no set schedule. You work when you want. Try finding that at your local retail store. It is one of the best side jobs you can do.

But, and this is a big but, there’s no guaranteed income. Some weeks are great, others are lean. A traditional part-time job might pay less per hour, but at least you know exactly what you’re getting.

Pros and Cons of DoorDashing as a Side Hustle

Advantages of DoorDash

Flexibility is the big one. I could dash between classes or after my main job. No other side gig let me do that.

The barrier to entry is low. If you have a car and a smartphone, you’re pretty much set. No interview, no resume needed.

Getting paid fast is nice. With Fast Pay, you can cash out daily for a small fee. It’s a lifesaver when you need money in a pinch.

Potential Drawbacks

The wear and tear on your car is real. I put an extra 200 miles on my car in just a week. That’s going to add up in maintenance costs.

It can be stressful. When orders are late or customers are unhappy, it’s on you to deal with it. There’s no manager to step in and handle things.

The income is unpredictable. You might make $200 one day and $50 the next. If you need stable, consistent income, this ain’t it.

Real DoorDash Driver Experiences

Success stories

I chatted with a few veteran Dashers while waiting for orders. One guy told me he paid off $5,000 in credit card debt in just three months of serious dashing. He worked it like a full-time job, though.

Another Dasher I met uses it to fund her travel habit. She dashes intensively for a few months, then takes off for weeks at a time. It’s all about how you make it work for you.

Challenges faced by Dashers

It’s not all rosy, though. One Dasher shared a story about a massive order to a business. When he arrived, the business was closed. He was stuck with a car full of food and a wasted hour.

App glitches are a common complaint. I experienced it myself – the app crashed right as I was trying to confirm a delivery. Cue panic and a call to support.

Multiple Dashers mentioned the physical toll. Sitting in your car for hours, constantly getting in and out, carrying heavy orders – it can wear on you.

The bottom line? DoorDash can be a great side hustle, but it’s not a golden ticket. Like any gig, it has its ups and downs. The key is to go in with your eyes open and figure out how to make it work best for you.

When Does DoorDash Pay You?

When I first started, this was one of my biggest questions. Here’s the lowdown:

Payment schedule

DoorDash operates on a weekly pay schedule. Your week runs from Monday to Sunday, and you get paid for that week the following Wednesday. It’s like clockwork – every Wednesday, I’d wake up to see my earnings in my account.

But here’s the thing – it’s not instant. The first deposit took about a week to hit my account. After that, it was consistent, but that first week felt like an eternity.

Fast Pay option

Now, if you’re like me and sometimes need cash quicker, there’s Fast Pay. It’s a game-changer, but it comes with a catch.

You can cash out your earnings instantly for a $1.99 fee. Sounds great, right? Well, there are some hoops to jump through. You need to have completed at least 25 deliveries and have been active for at least two weeks.

I used it a couple of times when I was in a pinch. The money hit my debit card within minutes. Just remember, that $1.99 fee can add up if you use it too often.

How to Start Your DoorDash Side Hustle

Getting Started with DoorDash

Starting with DoorDash is surprisingly straightforward. Here’s what I did:

1. I went to the DoorDash website and filled out the application. It took maybe 15 minutes.
2. They ran a background check. This took about 24 hours for me, but I’ve heard it can take up to a week for some.
3. Once approved, I downloaded the Dasher app.
4. I waited for my activation kit to arrive. It had my red card (for paying for orders) and an insulated bag.

Pro tip: You can actually start dashing before your kit arrives. Just avoid orders that require the red card.

Rules of Driving for DoorDash

There are some unwritten rules I picked up along the way:

1. Be on time. The app tracks your punctuality, and it affects your ratings.
2. Communicate with customers. If there’s a delay, let them know.
3. Double-check the order. I once forgot someone’s drink, and my rating took a hit.
4. Be respectful to restaurant staff. They can make or break your delivery experience.
5. Don’t accept orders you can’t handle. It’s okay to decline if the distance is too far or the pay is too low.

DoorDash Car Requirements

DoorDash isn’t super strict about cars, but there are some basics:

• Your car should be in good working condition. No check engine lights or bald tires.
• It doesn’t have to be new. My 2010 Honda did just fine.
• In some areas, you can even use a scooter or bicycle.
• You need valid insurance and registration.

The most important thing? Make sure your car is reliable. Breaking down during a delivery is a nightmare you don’t want.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much can you make doing DoorDash part-time?

In my experience, working about 15-20 hours a week, I averaged around $200-$300. But it varies wildly depending on your area, times you work, and how strategic you are with accepting orders.

Is DoorDash worth it as a side job in 2024?

It can be, but it depends on your situation. If you need flexible hours and quick cash, it’s great. If you’re looking for stable, predictable income, maybe not so much.

If not DoorDash, what’s a good alternative side hustle?

It depends on your skills and availability. I’ve tried freelance writing and pet-sitting. Both offer flexibility like DoorDash but with different challenges and rewards. It is a good side hustle for teens as well.

How long does it take to get approved for DoorDash?

For me, it was about 2-3 days total. But I’ve heard it can take up to a week, especially if there’s a backlog of applications.

Do I need to report DoorDash income on my taxes?

Absolutely. DoorDash will send you a 1099 form if you earn over $600 in a year. Keep track of your miles and expenses – they’re deductible!

Can I do DoorDash in different cities?

Yes, you can! I tried this when I visited my parents in another state. Just open the app and start dashing. It’s great for making extra cash while traveling.

How does DoorDash determine driver ratings?

It’s based on your last 100 deliveries. Customers rate you, and so do restaurants. Maintaining a high rating gets you perks like first dibs on scheduling.

What happens if I can’t complete a delivery?

It happens. Contact support through the app. They’ll guide you through it. I once had a flat tire mid-delivery, and they were surprisingly helpful.

Can I deliver with someone else in the car?

Technically, you’re not supposed to. But I’ve done it a few times with no issues. Just make sure you’re the one handling the food and interacting with customers.

How do I stay safe while DoorDashing?

Trust your gut. If an area feels unsafe, it’s okay to decline orders there. I also invested in a dash cam for peace of mind.

Remember, your experience might differ from mine. DoorDash can vary a lot depending on your location and how you approach it. The key is to stay flexible and learn as you go. This is just one of the hustles that I tried, For more hustles, make sure to came back here at AI Side Hustler.