Instacart Shopper Requirements

Working as an Instacart shopper is a popular way to earn flexible income making grocery deliveries. But before you can start shopping and delivering, you need to meet Instacart’s specific requirements. From age and vehicle rules to background checks and insurance, understanding these requirements can help you see if Instacart is a good fit for you.

Below, we’ll walk you through what Instacart requires from new drivers (also called “shoppers”), so you know exactly what to expect before you sign up.

Age and eligibility requirements

Instacart has basic requirements you need to meet to be eligible to deliver:

• Minimum age: You must be at least 18 years old to work as an Instacart shopper in the United States.
• Legal work status: You must be eligible to work in the country you’re delivering in. Instacart typically requires you to provide documentation verifying your legal ability to work.
• Smartphone requirements: You need an iPhone (iOS 14 or newer) or Android (5.0 or newer) with enough storage space and cellular data to run the Instacart Shopper app reliably.

These requirements ensure that you can use the app effectively, communicate with customers, and navigate while making deliveries.

Types of Instacart roles

Instacart offers two main shopper roles, and the requirements can vary slightly between them.

Full-Service Shopper

This is the most common role and what most people mean when they talk about “Instacart driver” requirements. Full-service shoppers are independent contractors who:

• Shop for orders at stores
• Deliver groceries to customers
• Choose their own hours

Because you’re an independent contractor, you have more flexibility but also handle your own expenses, taxes, and insurance requirements.

In-Store Shopper

This role is an employee position in some locations. In-store shoppers:

• Only shop inside the store
• Don’t do any deliveries
• Are paid hourly and work scheduled shifts

This guide focuses on the full-service shopper (driver) requirements since that’s the delivery side most people are researching.

Driver’s license and transportation requirements

Instacart has clear requirements around transportation so you can reliably deliver groceries.

• Valid driver’s license: You’ll need a valid license in your state.
• Access to a reliable vehicle: Unlike some delivery gigs that require newer cars, Instacart does not specify a maximum vehicle age. However, your vehicle must be safe, reliable, and capable of transporting groceries securely.
• Vehicle insurance: You must have auto insurance that meets your state’s minimum requirements. Instacart typically verifies insurance during onboarding.

There’s no formal vehicle inspection required during signup, but maintaining your car is crucial for safety and good service.

Background check

All Instacart shoppers must pass a background check. This step is critical because you’re delivering directly to customers’ homes.

The check typically reviews:

• Criminal history: Convictions may disqualify you, depending on severity and recency.
• Driving record: Major violations or a history of reckless driving may prevent approval.
• Identity verification: Ensures you’re who you say you are.

Instacart uses third-party providers to handle these checks, and you’ll need to provide permission and identifying details during signup. The process is usually completed within a few days but can take longer in some regions.

Vehicle insurance and personal coverage

While Instacart does not provide commercial vehicle insurance, they expect shoppers to maintain personal auto insurance in good standing.

• Check your policy to make sure delivery driving is permitted.
• Some insurance companies may require you to notify them you’re doing delivery work.
• Failing to maintain insurance can lead to removal from the platform.

Being aware of your insurance obligations can help you avoid costly surprises if you’re ever in an accident.

Equipment requirements

Beyond your vehicle and smartphone, there are a few other items you may need:

• Thermal or insulated bags: Many markets or stores require these to keep frozen and cold items at safe temperatures.
• Sturdy shopping bags or bins: Helpful for transporting large orders.
• Phone mount or charger: Keeps your device secure and powered for navigation and communication.

Instacart may also require you to use their branded insulated bags in certain markets, so check your local requirements during onboarding. Make sure to track your Instacart expenses, as they are tax deductions at the end of the year!

Physical requirements

Shopping for Instacart is more physically demanding than many app-based gigs. Requirements include:

• Ability to lift heavy items: You may need to carry groceries like cases of water or bags of pet food.
• Walking and standing: Expect long periods of standing and navigating large stores.
• Stairs and apartment deliveries: Be prepared to climb stairs or carry bags over distances.

If you’re evaluating Instacart as a side hustle, it’s worth considering whether these physical demands fit with your abilities and preferences.

Scheduling and availability

Instacart offers flexibility but also relies on drivers who can meet customer expectations:

• Set your own schedule: Full-service shoppers choose hours in advance or accept on-demand batches.
• Peak demand times: Evenings, weekends, and holidays often see higher order volumes.
• Reliability matters: Consistently canceling or missing batches can hurt your ratings and future access to orders.

Being reliable and planning your schedule can increase your earnings potential and help you secure more high-paying batches.

How to apply

Applying to be an Instacart shopper is straightforward:

1. Download the Instacart Shopper app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Create an account with your personal details.
3. Complete the background check and consent forms.
4. Upload your driver’s license and insurance info.
5. Complete the onboarding process, which may include watching short training videos.
6. Get approved and start accepting batches once you’re cleared.
   

The entire process can take as little as a few days, although times vary based on location and background check processing.

Staying compliant and maintaining eligibility

Once you’re active on the platform, you need to maintain certain standards:

• Keep your driver’s license and insurance up to date.
• Maintain a reliable vehicle.
• Follow local food safety requirements.
• Deliver on time and communicate clearly with customers.
• Avoid shopper deactivation triggers like excessive cancellations or poor ratings.

Understanding these expectations helps ensure long-term success with Instacart.

If you’re considering signing up as an Instacart shopper, reviewing these requirements in advance will help you know what to expect and how to prepare. By meeting these standards, you can start earning quickly and deliver great service to customers in your area.

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