The ride-hailing industry is booming. Numbers suggest that more people will be using these services, with an increase of 217.6 million users expected between 2024 and 2028. By 2028, there will be a total of 2 billion users worldwide. That means lots of potential customers for drivers!
The food delivery industry is another lucrative opportunity, especially in the United States. As the second biggest online food delivery market, the U.S. had an estimated $350 billion in revenues in 2024. Over $95 billion of that revenue came from meal delivery alone. By 2028, the U.S. market is forecast to exceed $500 billion.
(Image by Depositphotos)
Recent statistics from SE Ranking’s keyword generator also confirm the popularity of delivery services – with about 1M global monthly searches, “food delivery near me” is averagely searched 823K per month in the U.S. only. Moreover, delivery services of established brands like DoorDash reach up to 5M monthly searches in the U.S.
As ride-hailing and delivery services grow, driving apps provide a way to make money. These apps allow you to earn income by providing services, requiring only a valid driver’s license and insured vehicle. So, keep reading if you’re looking for ways to make money with your car.
Pay per hour: $16-23
Google Play link: 4.6 (4.34M reviews)
App Store link: 4.8 (18.1M reviews)
DoorDash is a food delivery app that connects customers to local restaurants. It’s the top U.S. delivery app in over 7,000 cities. DoorDash was founded by Stanford students in 2013 and now has a 66% U.S. market share.
During the pandemic, DoorDash succeeded by serving suburban and rural areas. By 2019, its market share surpassed Grubhub and Uber Eats. In 2023, DoorDash was the fourth most downloaded food delivery app globally, with over 26 million downloads. In 2022, it acquired Finnish company Wolt for over $8 billion, gaining access to 23 European markets. This helped DoorDash’s annual revenue soar from $885 million in 2019 to $8.6 billion in 2023.
DoorDash is one of the popular apps to make money while driving by delivering food orders as a “Dasher.” With over 1 million Dashers, it provides an opportunity to drive for money on a flexible schedule. Dasher earnings consist of a base pay per delivery plus the ability to keep 100% of any tips received. During peak demand times, Dashers can also earn extra Peak Pay on top of their base fare.
The app frequently offers special Promotions, which are additional ways for Dashers to drive for money. These promotions can be viewed and tracked right in the Dasher app. Payment is seamless, with earnings deposited directly into Dasher’s bank account on a weekly basis. U.S. Dashers can choose daily no-fee deposits with DasherDirect. They can also pay a $1.99 fee for instant earnings withdrawals using Fast Pay.
DoorDash is one of the top apps for making money by driving and delivering food orders. It offers consistent earnings, tip claiming, peak pay incentives, and special promotions. You can use your own vehicle and flexible schedule. The payment options also make it an appealing choice for those seeking to drive for money regularly or occasionally.
To be eligible, you must:
– Be at least 18 years old.
– Have an iPhone or Android smartphone.
– Complete the sign-up process.
Pay per hour: $15-21
Google Play link: 4.3 (5.4M reviews)
App Store link: 4.8 (8M reviews)
Uber Eats is a popular food delivery service and driving app to make money. Globally, it has 88 million users. Plus, over 800,000 restaurants across 11,000 cities are available on Uber Eats. In the U.S., it offers delivery driving opportunities in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, and hundreds more.
As a delivery driver, you can get paid for the miles you drive, each pickup, and drop-off. Some cities also offer per-minute pay. With its widespread availability and user base, UberEats provides ample earning potential as a driving app for making money delivering food.
To be eligible, you must:
– Be at least 19 years old
– Have a 2-door or 4-door car
– Valid driver’s license in your name
– Submit Social Security number for background screening
Pay per hour: $17-24
Google Play link: 4.2 (270K reviews)
App Store link: 4.8 (3.4M reviews)
Instacart is a leading grocery delivery service and one of the best driving apps to make money. Launched in 2012 in San Francisco, it now operates across thousands of cities in the U.S. and Canada. In 2021, Instacart held a 45% market share in the U.S. grocery delivery market, second only to Walmart.
Instacart allows people to earn money by shopping and delivering groceries in their own vehicles. Users claim orders through the app to pick up items from local stores and deliver them to customers.
Full-service shoppers in the U.S. earn from payouts for each completed “batch” or order. Instacart displays upfront estimated earnings based on order size, distance, and effort. Plus, contractors can keep 100% of any tips and earn bonus pay through promotions. They have the flexibility to work as much or as little as they want.
Shoppers can cash out their earnings quickly, often within just a couple of hours after completing orders. This allows for fast access to that income.
Instacart also employs in-store shoppers who are paid an hourly wage. They work scheduled shifts up to 29 hours per week at stores.
In short, Instacart is one of the most popular driving apps to make money. As an Instacart shopper, you can be your own boss. You choose when and where to work while seeing potential earnings upfront.
To be eligible, you must:
– At least 18 years old
– Eligible to work in the US
– Have a bank account
– Consistent access to a vehicle and recent smartphone
– Able to lift 40 lbs with/without accommodation
Pay per hour: $17-25
Google Play link: 4.5 (863K reviews)
App Store link: 4.7 (4.3M reviews)
GrubHub is a major food delivery service and driving app in the U.S. with at least 28.3 million active users. It is available across over 4,000 cities in all 50 states.
GrubHub stands out as one of the premier apps that pays you to drive by delivering restaurant orders to customers. After a customer places an order, delivery partners can accept offers through GrubHub. This allows them to earn money by picking up and dropping off the food.
The earnings structure is appealing. It includes delivery pay based on mileage, time, order type, and bonuses in each market. GrubHub also contributes to ensuring minimum rates even on slower days. Plus, drivers keep 100% of any tips received from customers.
GrubHub allows drivers to reserve time blocks for deliveries, boosting order consistency. Opportunities to earn extra include special missions, sweepstakes, and offers.
For added convenience, drivers can cash out up to $500 per day instantly using Instant Cash Out. Those preferring traditional direct deposit can opt to receive payments weekly on Thursdays.
GrubHub offers competitive pay rates, allows to keep tips, and provides flexible payment options. You can deliver food orders on your schedule. The transparent pay system and quick cash out make it one of the top apps that pay you to drive.
To be eligible, you must:
– At least 18 years old
– Driver’s license
– Car with insurance (bike deliveries allowed in some areas)
Pay per hour: $17-25
Google Play link: 4.6 (77.9K reviews)
App Store link: 4.8 (208.4K reviews)
GoPuff started as a hookah delivery service in 2013. Then, it switched to delivering convenience items like snacks and drinks and now operates in over 650 U.S. cities.
GoPuff presents a unique opportunity among delivery driving apps to make money. Unlike Uber Eats, GoPuff runs its online convenience store setup, offering a unique delivery experience. Drivers deliver pre-assembled orders with around 3,000 products from GoPuff’s centers to customers.
This system allows GoPuff to avoid many of the high fees typical of third-party delivery services. For drivers, it’s simple: check the goDrive app for orders, pick up items, and deliver them quickly to customers.
At GoPuff, you can set your hours, allowing you to work as much or as little as you prefer each week. However, during peak times, an oversaturation of drivers may limit the number of available orders and deliveries.
As with other delivery driving apps to make money, earnings can fluctuate based on factors like demand, tips, incentives, and time spent actively making deliveries. Drivers also bear responsibility for expenses like gas and vehicle maintenance.
To be eligible, you must:
– 21+ years old
– Valid U.S. driver’s license
– Vehicle and insurance in your name
– Smartphone with up-to-date operating system
– Pass pre-paid alcohol delivery training course (where applicable)
Pay per hour: $17-30
Google Play link: 4.9 (455K reviews)
App Store link: 4.9 (14.1M reviews)
Lyft is a rideshare service and one of the most popular driving apps to make money. Available across all 50 U.S. states and D.C., it connects riders to drivers for city trips.
Lyft started as a long-distance carpooling app in 2012 before pivoting to an Uber-like model. It rapidly expanded nationwide but lagged Uber’s global presence.
The #DeleteUber campaign boosted Lyft’s market share from 22% to 33% in 2017-2018. However, the pandemic caused major declines before a 2023 rebound with $4.4 billion in revenue.
Lyft is a popular rideshare app that allows drivers to make money by giving rides using their personal vehicles. The basic process is straightforward: drivers get approved, go online in the Lyft and start accepting ride requests. Pay is calculated based on the time and distance of each completed ride using rates set by Lyft for that city.
Many Lyft drivers are attracted to the potential to earn more during high-demand periods, which often happen during rush hours or after events. Lyft offers incentives and bonuses at times to motivate drivers. Passengers also have the option to tip through the app, which goes directly to the driver.
Earnings from Lyft rides are automatically transferred to the driver’s bank account weekly. This regular direct deposit schedule can provide a steady income stream for those who drive consistently.
However, it’s important to note that as independent contractors, Lyft drivers are responsible for expenses like gas, vehicle maintenance, and other costs. There is also no guarantee of a minimum number of ride requests. Earnings can fluctuate based on demand, time spent driving, and other factors.
To be eligible, you must:
– At least 25 years old
– Pass background/driving record check
– Provide insurance and documents
– Have an eligible 4-door vehicle
Pay per hour: $18-33
Google Play link: 4.6 (13.5M reviews)
App Store link: 4.9 (9.3M reviews)
Uber is a pioneering rideshare service founded in 2009. Now operating in 72 countries and over 10,500 cities worldwide, it connects riders to drivers for transportation. Despite legal challenges, Uber cemented itself as a leader in the sharing economy, with 130 million monthly users as of 2023.
Uber offers drivers a flexible way to make money by providing rides on their own schedule. Drivers earn based on completed rides and keep 100% of tips. With its massive scale and demand, Uber remains one of the top driving apps to make money.
To be eligible, you must:
– Meet the minimum age for your city
– In-state driver’s license
– 1 year of U.S. driving experience (3 years if under 25)
– Use an eligible 4-door vehicle
Pay per hour: $17-27
Google Play link: 4.2 (32.3K reviews)
App Store link: 4.9 (114.4K reviews)
Shipt allows you to drive for money as an independent contractor. It is a grocery delivery service owned by Target. Customers order through the app, and “Shopper” drivers choose, shop for, and deliver items to the customer’s doorstep.
What makes Shipt stand out as one of the top apps that pay you to drive is the level of flexibility it offers. Shoppers have total freedom over their schedules, choosing when and where they want to work based on their availability. They use the Shipt Shopper app to schedule shifts, accept desired orders, and complete deliveries within the requested timeframes. Shoppers, as independent contractors, drive for money per order.
Estimated earnings are provided upfront based on the order effort. In addition to the base pay, they keep 100% of any tips received from satisfied customers. You can access payments instantly once daily or receive them through direct deposit every Friday for the previous week’s work.
Another advantage is the ability for Shoppers to customize their service areas. When signing up, they select a large “Metro” region they’re willing to cover. Then, within that metro, they can specify smaller “Zones” to further narrow down where they’ll shop and drive to make deliveries.
Shipt Perks offers Shoppers discounts on insurance, prescriptions, and more. With its flexibility, earnings potential from pay and tips, and driver perks, Shipt ranks among the most appealing apps that pay you to drive and deliver as an independent contractor.
To be eligible, you must:
– At least 18 years old
– Valid U.S. driver’s license and auto insurance
– Reliable vehicle (1997 or newer)
– Knowledge of produce selection
– Ability to lift 45 lbs
– Smartphone (iOS 10+ or Android 5.1+)
Pay per hour: $18
Google Play link: 4.4 (63.4K reviews)
App Store link: 4.6 (92.3K reviews)
Spark Driver allows contractors to get paid for driving by delivering for Walmart and other stores across 3,650 U.S. cities. Once you turn on “Spark Now” in the app, you’ll receive offers for various types of orders, including grocery, Walmart GoLocal, pharmacy, and shopping & delivery.
Each offer provides details like the order type, pickup and delivery timeframe, and estimated earnings. You can choose the geographic zone you prefer and decide whether to accept residential, business, or both types of orders. The decision to accept an order is entirely up to you.
You will deliver various products, such as groceries, hardware items, car parts, flowers, etc. Returns involve picking up customer items and delivering them back to Walmart stores.
To get started, you’ll need to pass a background check, typically taking 1-7 business days. You may use any car for deliveries, but motorcycles, motorized bicycles, and scooters are not allowed.
As a Spark Driver, you can earn trip earnings, tips (which you keep 100%), and incentives for each completed offer. The estimated earnings are provided upfront with each offer, making it one of the best apps to make money driving.
To be eligible, you must:
– Valid driver’s license
– At least 18 years old
– Proof of insurance
– SSN
– Smartphone (iPhone or Android) with flash and GPS
– Clean driving record
Pay per hour: $17-21
Google Play link: 2 (436 reviews)
App Store link: 4.7 (215.1K reviews)
Amazon Flex is considered one of the best apps to make money driving. It offers several delivery opportunities for contractors to make money by driving. Tasks include delivering Amazon.com orders, picking up groceries for Prime Now and Amazon Fresh, and fulfilling Store Orders from local retailers.
The app operates in specific cities and towns with high customer demand. Drivers can use mid-sized sedans, trucks, SUVs, or vans for safe package transport. Motorcycles, motorized bicycles, and scooters are not allowed.
Delivery blocks typically range from 2-6 hours, and you can choose which weekdays to get paid. Earnings from Sunday to Thursday are available on the next payment day. Friday and Saturday earnings arrive on Monday or the selected payment day. Tips may take an additional 2-3 days to process.
Amazon Flex offers an enticing Rewards program, making it one of the top apps to make money by driving. Level 1 unlocks exclusive discounts on roadside assistance, tires, car maintenance, shopping, and more through the Stride app. Higher levels offer cash back on fuel, EV charging, Amazon.com, and Whole Foods with the Amazon Flex Debit Card.
Additionally, Preferred Scheduling allows drivers to see customized offers reserved exclusively for them at higher reward tiers. With its flexible opportunities and valuable perks, Amazon Flex stands out as one of the best apps to make money driving.
To be eligible, you must:
– Be at least 21 years old
– Have a valid U.S. driver’s license
– Own a mid-size or larger vehicle
Pay per hour: $17
Google Play link: 4.1 (16K reviews)
App Store link: 4.7 (60.5K reviews)
Roadie is a crowdsourced delivery platform that facilitates same-day, urgent, and scheduled deliveries across the U.S. As a Roadie driver, you can deliver things and get paid. You can also pick when you work and choose the jobs you like using the app. Signing up is easy online or on the app.
Roadie is an app that allows drivers to make money by delivering various items like furniture, appliances, and more. Delivery payments vary depending on distance, speed, and item size. Some deliveries require special certifications related to the vehicle type or equipment needed.
As a Roadie driver, you can deliver just about anything from lemons to lawnmowers. You get all the Gig details upfront to choose ones that fit your vehicle and availability. Once matched, make the pickup and delivery within the specified timeframes. Maintain communication and a minimum 4-star rating.
To get Gigs, you submit offers through the app by tapping on pickup location pins. This shows all the relevant information about items, distance, instructions, and compensation so you can decide if it works for you or not.
Earnings are displayed in your Driver Dashboard for payment. You can get free weekly payouts on Tuesdays or pay a fee to cash out instantly through Instant Pay. Additionally, Roadie partners with Stride to offer health, dental, and auto insurance access.
Overall, Roadie is one of the top driving apps to make money by crowd-sourcing local/regional deliveries of various items using your personal vehicle. The payment system and ability to view and choose Gigs upfront provide flexibility.
To be eligible, you must:
– At least 18 years old
– Social Security Number
– Valid U.S. driver’s license
Pay per hour: $20-36
Google Play link: 3.5 (861K reviews)
App Store link: 4.8 (10.7K reviews)
GoShare provides an alternative for delivery professionals who own trucks or vans. It connects them with people and businesses in their area who need help moving, hauling, or delivering cargo on-demand. GoShare currently operates in San Diego, Los Angeles, and other regions. Drivers have flexibility to choose their workload.
Earnings are based on each completed delivery, with the specific amount displayed upfront before accepting a job. Top performers can potentially earn several thousand dollars per month. Additionally, drivers get to keep 100% of any tips they receive from customers.
The platform invoices customers and sends driver earnings via direct deposit. This usually happens within a 4-5 business day window. Occasional payouts may happen via PayPal or Zelle. Nonetheless, direct deposit is the preferred method.
The number of available jobs can fluctuate based on a driver’s location, vehicle type, and seasonal demand. Many users treat GoShare as a part-time opportunity to supplement their existing delivery or moving income. If you have a truck or van and are looking for an on-demand way to make extra money, GoShare could be a suitable option to explore.
To be eligible, you must:
– Must be at least 18 years old
– Vehicle must be a model year 2000 or newer and pass a vehicle inspection. No salvage titles
– Must be able to pass a background check and driving history check
– Must have an iPhone or Android phone that can run the latest version of the GoShare Driver App
– Must have a checking account to receive direct deposit payments.
– Must be able to speak English
– Must have a valid license, registration, and insurance in the state you are driving in
– You must meet minimum state insurance requirements and comply with local laws
Pay per hour: $21-32
Google Play link: 4.5 (272K reviews)
App Store link: 4.7 (345.4K reviews)
FedEx SameDay offers an opportunity to make money with a driving job focused on urgent deliveries. Drivers are paid based on the number of packages they deliver. This may attract individuals who like performance-based pay.
The company is experiencing significant growth, with a high demand for reliable drivers. In 2023, a lack of staff at FedEx Ground (a related service) even resulted in canceled deliveries. This highlights a need for couriers, suggesting good prospects for new hires at FedEx SameDay.
While income is a factor, FedEx also offers benefits packages, including healthcare and retirement savings options. Plus, it provides career advancement and company-supported education. The company reportedly prioritizes a positive work culture for its employees.
FedEx SameDay might suit those seeking a driving job. It offers good pay, flexibility, and a chance to grow with the company.
To be eligible, you must:
-Must be at least 21 years old
-Possess a valid driver’s license with professional driving experience (at least 3 years preferred)
-Pass a drug screening
-Have a clean background check (no criminal record)
While driving apps offer flexibility and income, there are ways to make them even more profitable. Here are some expert tips to help you boost your earnings with every ride.
Driving apps offer a flexible way to earn extra cash. But, like any gig economy job, there are upsides and downsides to consider. You may use platforms that collect customer feedback on these apps to check out what users think about its functionality, usability, etc.
Let’s weigh the pros and cons of using driving apps to supplement your income.
Work on Your Terms: Flexibility and being your own boss are major advantages of driving apps. You can fit the gig into your schedule by choosing when, where, and how much to work
Safety Concerns: Driving a lot, working nights, and dealing with strangers bring safety risks when using driving apps to make money. Proper precautions, such as avoiding unsafe areas and following personal safety guidelines, are essential
Increased Earnings Potential: Potential for good earnings, especially during peak times and by using multiple apps strategically
Unstable Income: Driving apps provide no set income, so budgeting is challenging when relying on driving apps to make money. Maintaining financial discipline, diversifying income sources, and having emergency savings is wise
Easy to Start: Low barrier to entry with minimal requirements, such as a valid driver's license, insured vehicle, and meeting age minimums. No formal training or long-term commitments are required
Car Maintenance & Costs: All the driving for apps puts a lot of wear and tear on your car. This means you'll spend more on maintenance and repairs, plus your car's value will drop faster. Constantly stopping and idling also wastes gas
In the end, many driving apps to make money offer a flexible way to earn extra cash. Getting started is as simple as signing up, and the best part is that you get to choose your own schedule. But there are some key things to keep in mind.
First, work the busy times like meal rushes and weekends for more orders. Also, use multiple apps to have more delivery options. Remember, giving great customer service is really important for getting better tips.
Second, don’t forget about your expenses. Keep an eye on costs like gas, maintenance, etc. Budgeting right is crucial actually to profit.
Driving apps are convenient side gigs, but maximizing earnings takes some effort. You have to be smart when you drive. Use multiple apps, ensure service quality, and manage expenses. If you use these apps correctly, they can provide a reliable extra income stream.
Get a consultation and start building your dream team.
REQUEST CVSDriving for Uber and Lyft tends to be one of the most lucrative options when it comes to making money from driving.
OnMyWay is a driving app that gives you money to share your driving data. It collects information about your driving habits and rewards you for every mile you drive without texting or using distracting apps.
If you enjoy driving, you could make money from it. With a reliable vehicle and a driver’s license, you can earn by driving people around or delivering food.
