Grubhub Driver Review: Is This Gig Job Worth It?

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Table of Contents

What Is a Grubhub Driver?

A Grubhub driver is an independent contractor who delivers restaurant meals to customers using the Grubhub platform.

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How Does Grubhub Work for Delivery Drivers?

Open the driver app and enable delivery requests.
Requests are pinged to drivers who are closest to the restaurant.
- Note: Scheduling blocks will give you access to priority requests.
You have up to 30 seconds to decide whether to accept the order.
- Note: You can deliver as individual orders or group orders.
Pick up the order at the restaurant.
Drop the order off at the customer’s location.
Once the drop-off is complete, you will earn money.

Requirements to Become a Grubhub Delivery Driver

Age: Minimum age is 18 (21+ in Las Vegas).
Transportation: A reliable car, motorcycle, or scooter is required. In select urban areas, you can also deliver using a bicycle.
Driver’s License & Experience: A valid driver’s license with at least 2 years of licensed driving experience is required. (Note: If you are delivering via bicycle, a valid state ID is required instead of a license.)
Insurance: If you are driving a car, you must carry valid auto insurance in your name.
Smartphone: You need an iPhone (iOS 11 or later) or an Android (5.0 or later) with a working data plan.
Background Check: You must pass a standard criminal and Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) background check.
Financials: You must have a valid Social Security number and a checking account for direct deposit.

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Background And DMV Check for Grubhub Delivery Drivers

To be approved to drive for Grubhub, you must pass a background and DMV check. Your application will be denied if any of the following items are found on your record.

DMV Record

More than 3 moving violations in the previous 3 years, such as:
- Speeding tickets.
- Accidents.
- Driving without insurance.
- Stoplight violations.
Any major violations in the previous 3 years, such as:
- Driving with a suspended license.
- Reckless driving.
A DUI or any drug related violation in the previous 7 years.

Criminal Record

Violent crimes.
Felonies.
Drug related crimes.
Sexual offenses.
theft and property damage convictions.

Pros of Being a Delivery Driver for Grubhub

You have the flexibility to choose your own hours and work when it suits you.
You have the autonomy to decline orders that aren’t financially rewarding, which gives you control over your earnings.
Grubhub offers an Instant Cashout feature that allows drivers to access their earnings quickly, often for a small fee, providing immediate access to cash.
Compared with some other platforms, Grubhub can offer a higher average hourly rate for drivers.

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Cons of Being a Delivery Driver for Grubhub

This is not ideal for a full-time job.
Pay can vary significantly day to day and is heavily influenced by tips and the availability of high-paying orders.
Driving for Grubhub can lead to significant wear and tear on your vehicle.
Declining too many low-paying offers might lead the algorithm to send fewer desirable orders, impacting your income potential.
Grubhub’s profitability depends on location and local demand.

Final Thoughts

Working as a Grubhub driver is a great side gig for flexibility, but relying on it as a primary, standalone income is difficult due to low order volume and significant vehicle wear and tear.

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