Thinking about becoming a Dasher? Whether you’re looking to make extra income or dive into full-time gig work, doordash background check failed with DoorDash can be a flexible and rewarding opportunity. But before you hit the road, there’s one critical step that every applicant must pass: the background check.
Many prospective Dashers are caught off guard when their application is delayed or denied due to this step. To help you avoid surprises, here’s a complete breakdown of the DoorDash background check process—what it includes, why you might fail it, and what you can do if you do.
Why Does DoorDash Run Background Checks?
DoorDash handles millions of deliveries each day, and customers trust the company to send responsible, law-abiding individuals to their doors. To maintain safety and trust on the platform, DoorDash requires all new applicants—and sometimes current Dashers—to undergo a background check.
The goal is simple: ensure that Dashers meet basic safety and legal standards before they begin delivering.
How the DoorDash Background Check Works
DoorDash partners with a third-party company—Checkr—to handle background screenings. The process usually begins automatically after you submit your application and can take anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of weeks, depending on the complexity of your record and location.
What Does the Background Check Include?
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Criminal History Check
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Felonies
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Misdemeanors
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Convictions related to theft, violence, sexual offenses, or drugs
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Pending charges
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Driving Record (Motor Vehicle Report)
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Valid driver’s license (not expired or suspended)
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History of moving violations (speeding, reckless driving, DUIs, etc.)
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Accidents or license suspensions
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Identity Verification
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Social Security number
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Legal name matching
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Date of birth
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Sex Offender Registry Check
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DoorDash automatically disqualifies any applicant listed on the national sex offender registry.
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Note:
Even if you’re applying to deliver on a bike or by foot, the criminal history portion of the check still applies—even though a driving record may not.
Common Reasons for Failing the DoorDash Background Check
While DoorDash doesn’t publicly disclose every disqualifying factor, the following are known to commonly cause rejections:
1. Serious Criminal Offenses
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Violent crimes (assault, robbery, etc.)
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Sexual offenses
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Felony convictions (especially recent ones)
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Drug trafficking or possession charges
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Theft or fraud
2. Recent or Repetitive Offenses
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Multiple misdemeanors or arrests within the past 7 years
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A pattern of criminal behavior, even if non-violent
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Unresolved or pending criminal charges
3. Poor Driving History
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DUI or DWI in the past 7 years (sometimes longer, depending on state laws)
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Driving with a suspended license
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Multiple moving violations in a short period
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Major at-fault accidents
4. Inaccurate or Incomplete Information
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Failing to provide the correct legal name or SSN
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Mismatched addresses or personal details
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Not disclosing past issues when prompted (e.g., in states that allow applicant disclosure)
What to Do If You Fail the Background Check
If you receive a notice that you failed the DoorDash background check, don’t panic—you may have options:
1. Request a Copy of Your Report
Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you’re entitled to a free copy of your background check and a notice of your rights. Carefully review the report to verify its accuracy.
2. Dispute Errors
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If you find incorrect or outdated information (like a dismissed charge still listed), contact Checkr directly to file a dispute.
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You’ll need to submit documentation (such as court records or updated license information).
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Checkr has up to 30 days to investigate and respond.
3. Fix the Issue and Reapply
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In some cases (such as an expired license or a resolved legal matter), you can fix the problem and reapply later.
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DoorDash may reconsider your application if enough time has passed or if the offense isn’t disqualifying in the long term.
How Often Does DoorDash Recheck Backgrounds?
Even after you’re approved, DoorDash may periodically re-run background checks, especially if:
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You’re inactive for a long period
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A complaint or issue is raised by a customer
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You move to a new state
So, maintaining a clean record is important if you want to keep Dashing long-term.
Final Thoughts
The DoorDash background check is there to ensure the safety of the community—and while it may seem strict, it’s an essential part of the gig economy’s trust system. Understanding how the process works, what can cause a denial, and how to respond if you’re rejected puts you in control of your application.
If you’ve failed before, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re disqualified for life. Errors can be corrected, and time can heal past mistakes. So stay informed, stay proactive, and keep your options open.
