Grubhub Driver Sign-Up: Your Ultimate Guide to Hitting the Road and Earning Cash

Grubhub Driver Sign-Up

The gig economy is booming, and food delivery is at its heart. If you’re looking to make extra cash with flexible hours, becoming a Grubhub driver might be your ticket to financial freedom. Whether you’re zipping through city streets on a bike, cruising in a car, or even walking orders to customers, Grubhub offers a straightforward way to earn money on your terms. But how do you get started? What does it take to sign up, and what should you know before diving in? This comprehensive guide breaks down every step of the Grubhub driver sign-up process, vehicle requirements, tips for success, and insider insights to make your journey engaging, sharp, and profitable. Buckle up—let’s get you on the road!

Why Choose Grubhub?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why Grubhub stands out in the crowded food delivery landscape. Founded in 2004, Grubhub has grown into one of the largest food delivery platforms in the U.S., connecting hungry customers with thousands of restaurants. For drivers, it’s a chance to earn an average of $29/hour during peak times (lunch and dinner rushes), keep 100% of tips, and work when it suits your schedule. Unlike traditional jobs, there’s no boss breathing down your neck, no resume required, and no grueling interviews. Plus, you can deliver by car, scooter, bike, or even on foot in some cities, making it accessible for almost anyone.

But it’s not just about the money. Driving for Grubhub means you’re part of a fast-paced, dynamic gig that lets you explore your city, meet new people, and enjoy the freedom of being your own boss. Whether you’re a student, a side-hustler, or someone looking to ditch the 9-to-5 grind, this guide will walk you through the sign-up process with clarity and enthusiasm, ensuring you’re ready to hit the ground running.

Step 1: Check If You Meet the Requirements

Before you hit that “Apply” button, let’s make sure you’re eligible. Grubhub keeps its requirements simple, but they’re non-negotiable. Here’s what you need:

• Age: You must be at least 19 to deliver for Grubhub, though some cities (like Chicago or Las Vegas) require you to be 21. This ensures drivers are mature enough to handle the responsibilities of delivering food safely and professionally.
• Identification:
  • Car, Scooter, or Motorcycle Delivery: A valid driver’s license with at least two years of driving experience.
  • Bike or Foot Delivery: A valid state ID (no driver’s license needed).
• Smartphone: You’ll need an iPhone (iOS 11 or higher) or Android (5.0 or higher) with a reliable data plan. The Grubhub for Drivers app is your lifeline for accepting orders, navigating, and tracking earnings.
• Insurance: If you’re using a car, scooter, or motorcycle, you must have valid auto insurance that meets your state’s minimum requirements. Some states may require additional commercial coverage—check local laws to be sure.
• Bank Account: A checking account is required for direct deposit of your earnings.
• Background Check: You must pass a background check, which screens for criminal history and driving records (if applicable). No prior delivery experience is needed, so don’t worry if this is your first gig.

These requirements are designed to ensure safety and reliability for customers, restaurants, and drivers. If you meet these criteria, you’re already halfway to the starting line. If not, don’t worry—some requirements, like getting a state ID or upgrading your phone, are easy fixes.

Step 2: Understand Vehicle Requirements and Restrictions

Your vehicle (or lack thereof) is key to your Grubhub journey, and the requirements vary depending on how you plan to deliver. Let’s break down the specifics for each delivery method, including any restrictions you need to know.

Car Delivery

• Vehicle Type: Any reliable, registered vehicle works—sedans, SUVs, trucks, you name it. Grubhub doesn’t impose restrictions on make, model, or year, so your trusty 2005 Honda Civic is just as welcome as a shiny new Tesla.
• Legal Requirements: You need a valid driver’s license (with two years of driving experience) and auto insurance meeting your state’s minimum liability coverage. Some states, like California, may require additional commercial insurance for delivery work, so check with your DMV or insurance provider.
• Condition: Your car must be roadworthy, with functional brakes, lights, and tires. Grubhub doesn’t conduct formal inspections, but local traffic laws apply. If your car wouldn’t pass a basic safety check, it’s time for a tune-up.
• Restrictions: Some cities have environmental regulations that restrict high-emission vehicles in certain zones (e.g., low-emission zones in San Francisco or New York City). Oversized vehicles like large vans may face parking or access issues in urban areas. In some markets, Grubhub requires car decals (provided free or you can use your own), but there are no restrictions on vehicle color or branding.

Scooter/Motorcycle Delivery

• Vehicle Type: Must be street-legal and registered. Electric scooters are allowed in some markets but must meet local road-use rules (e.g., maximum speed or motor size).
• Legal Requirements: A driver’s license with a motorcycle/scooter endorsement (if required by your state) and appropriate insurance are mandatory. For example, California requires a Class M1 or M2 license for scooters or motorcycles.
• Restrictions: Some cities restrict scooters in high-traffic pedestrian areas or require specific safety gear like helmets or reflective vests. Engine size isn’t restricted by Grubhub, but local laws may cap displacement (e.g., 50cc for scooters in some states). Check your market’s rules in the Grubhub for Drivers app or with your local DMV.

Bicycle Delivery

• Vehicle Type: Any functional bike is fine—road, mountain, or electric. E-bikes are permitted but must comply with local speed limits (typically 20–28 mph).
• Legal Requirements: No driver’s license or insurance is needed, just a valid state ID. Local laws may require safety gear like lights, reflectors, or helmets (e.g., mandatory for riders under 18 in California).
• Restrictions: Bike delivery is limited to dense urban markets like New York City, Chicago, or Boston. If your city doesn’t support bike delivery, you’ll need a car or scooter. There are no specific bike model restrictions, but your bike should be reliable for frequent use.

Foot/Walking Delivery

• Vehicle Type: No vehicle required—just your two feet and a valid state ID.
• Restrictions: Only available in select urban markets with high restaurant density, like Manhattan or downtown Chicago. If you’re in a suburban or rural area, this option likely isn’t available.

Key Notes on Vehicle Restrictions

• Market-Specific Rules: Not all delivery methods are available in every market. For example, bike or foot delivery is rare in smaller cities. Check driver.grubhub.com by entering your city to confirm options.
• Local Regulations: Grubhub defers to state and city laws. For instance, some cities ban scooters in certain zones or require permits for commercial delivery. Research your local transportation laws to avoid fines.
• Maintenance: As an independent contractor, you’re responsible for keeping your vehicle in legal and safe condition. Grubhub won’t inspect your car or bike, but violations of local laws could lead to deactivation.
• Switching Methods: You can switch delivery methods later (e.g., from car to bike), but you’ll need to update your profile through Grubhub support.

If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s eligibility or local restrictions, visit driver.grubhub.com or contact support at 1-312-637-8458 or deliverypartners@grubhub.com for clarification.

Step 3: Start the Sign-Up Process

Ready to get started? The sign-up process is quick and entirely online. Here’s how to do it:

1. Visit the Application Portal:
   • Head to driver.grubhub.com or download the “Grubhub for Drivers” app from the iOS App Store or Google Play.
   • Click the “Apply” button on the website or “Sign up to deliver” in the app.
2. Fill Out the Application:
   • Enter basic info: your full name, email address, phone number, state, city, and preferred delivery method (car, bike, scooter, etc.).
   • Be accurate with your city, as this determines your market and available delivery options.
3. Submit Documents:
   • Upload a clear photo of your driver’s license (for car/scooter/motorcycle) or state ID (for bike/foot).
   • Provide proof of auto insurance if using a vehicle.
   • Enter your bank account details for direct deposit.
   • Authorize a background check, which screens for criminal history and driving records (if applicable). This typically takes 3–5 days but can be faster.
4. Track Your Application:
   • After submitting, you’ll receive a unique link via email or SMS to monitor your application status. Check it regularly for updates or requests for additional info.

The application is straightforward, with no resume or interview required. If your market is full, you might be placed on a waitlist—don’t panic! Check the app for updates or consider applying in a nearby market with openings.

Step 4: Complete Onboarding

Once your application is approved, it’s time for onboarding. This step prepares you to hit the road with confidence. Here’s what to expect:

• Online Training: Access training modules through the Grubhub for Drivers app or website. These cover how to use the app, accept orders, navigate to customers, and handle common issues like missing items or customer complaints. The training is short, engaging, and designed to get you up to speed fast.
• Info Sessions: Some markets require a quick online info session (via Zoom or similar) to go over local delivery tips and expectations. These are usually optional but highly recommended for newbies.
• Delivery Gear: Grubhub provides an insulated delivery bag to keep food hot and fresh (or you can use your own). If you’re driving, you may receive car decals. Gear typically arrives in 5–10 business days, but you can start delivering without it in some cases (check with support).

Onboarding is designed to be quick and painless, so you can start earning as soon as possible. If you run into issues, Grubhub’s support team is available at 1-312-637-8458 or deliverypartners@grubhub.com.

Step 5: Start Delivering and Earning

Congratulations—you’re officially a Grubhub driver! Now it’s time to make money. Here’s how to get rolling:

1. Log In and Go Online:
   • Open the Grubhub for Drivers app and set your status to “Taking Orders.”
   • Choose a delivery block (pre-scheduled shifts for priority order access) or deliver on-demand if your market allows. Blocks are competitive, so book them early in the app.
2. Accept Orders:
   • The app will notify you of available orders, showing the restaurant, customer location, and estimated earnings (base pay + tips). Accept orders that fit your schedule and route.
   • Follow the app’s navigation to pick up food and deliver it to the customer. You’ll see delivery instructions (e.g., “leave at door” or “hand to customer”).
3. Get Paid:
   • Earnings include base pay (varies by market and order distance), promotions, and 100% of tips. Peak times (lunch: 11 AM–2 PM, dinner: 5 PM–8 PM) often yield $29/hour or more.
   • Payments are deposited weekly via direct deposit. Need cash sooner? Use Instant Cash Out for a $0.50 fee (free for Chase accounts).
   • Track your earnings in the app to see how much you’re making per order or shift.
4. Maximize Efficiency:
   • Work hotspot areas (busy restaurant zones) shown in the app to get more orders.
   • Schedule blocks during peak hours for higher earnings and priority.
   • Keep your vehicle fueled or charged, and carry a phone charger to stay online.

Insider Tips for Success

To make the most of your Grubhub gig, here are some sharp tips from experienced drivers:

• Optimize Your Schedule: Focus on peak times (lunch and dinner) for the best payouts. Weekends, especially Friday and Saturday nights, are goldmines in most markets.
• Know Your Market: Learn which neighborhoods have the most restaurants or demand. Urban areas often have shorter delivery distances, while suburban markets may involve longer drives but higher tips.
• Stay Safe: Use well-lit areas for pickups and deliveries, especially at night. For bikers, wear a helmet and reflective gear. Carry a portable charger to keep your phone alive.
• Track Expenses: As an independent contractor, you’re responsible for gas, maintenance, and taxes. Use apps like Stride or Keeper to log mileage and expenses for tax deductions.
• Customer Service Matters: Be polite and follow delivery instructions carefully. Positive ratings can lead to more orders and priority blocks.
• Stack Gigs: Many drivers work for multiple platforms (e.g., DoorDash, Uber Eats) to maximize earnings. Just manage your time to avoid conflicts.
• Check for Bonuses: Some markets offer incentives, like extra pay for completing a set number of deliveries in a week. Watch the app for promotions.

Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them

No gig is perfect, and Grubhub has its quirks. Here’s how to handle common hurdles:

• Waitlists: If your market is full, you may be waitlisted. Check the app daily for openings or apply in a nearby city. Markets with high demand (e.g., urban hubs) often clear waitlists faster.
• Low Order Volume: If orders are slow, switch to a busier hotspot or work during peak hours. Avoid oversaturated areas with too many drivers.
• Customer Issues: Occasionally, you’ll deal with missing items or unhappy customers. Communicate through the app and contact support if needed—don’t engage in disputes directly.
• Taxes and Expenses: Save 20–30% of your earnings for taxes, as Grubhub doesn’t withhold them. Track mileage and expenses to reduce your tax burden.
• Vehicle Wear: Frequent driving or biking can wear out your vehicle. Budget for maintenance and consider high-fuel-efficiency cars or e-bikes to save money.

The Bigger Picture: Is Grubhub Worth It?

Driving for Grubhub isn’t just a job—it’s a lifestyle choice. You’re trading the rigidity of a traditional job for flexibility, independence, and the chance to earn on your terms. On average, drivers make $29/hour during peak times, but your earnings depend on your market, hustle, and strategy. Urban drivers may rake in more due to high order volume, while suburban drivers might earn bigger tips but drive longer distances.

As an independent contractor, you won’t get benefits like health insurance or paid time off, but you gain freedom and control. For many, that’s a fair trade. Plus, keeping 100% of tips and accessing Instant Cash Out means you can see money in your pocket fast.

Ready to Roll?

Becoming a Grubhub driver is a low-barrier way to jump into the gig economy. With minimal requirements, a simple sign-up process, and flexible delivery options, it’s an accessible side hustle or full-time gig for almost anyone. Whether you’re cruising in a car, pedaling a bike, or walking the streets, Grubhub lets you turn your time and wheels into cash.

To get started, visit driver.grubhub.com or download the “Grubhub for Drivers” app. Fill out the application, submit your documents, and complete onboarding. Within days, you could be delivering your first order and earning your first paycheck. Got questions? Contact Grubhub support at 1-312-637-8458 or deliverypartners@grubhub.com.

So, what are you waiting for? Sign up, hit the road, and start making money on your terms. The food’s hot, the customers are waiting, and your Grubhub journey is just a click away!