Let’s be honest: with the cost of living rising in 2025, almost everyone is looking for a way to make extra cash fast. Whether you are a college student needing textbook money or just saving up for a vacation, gig apps are often the quickest solution. But if you only have time to focus on one platform, the big question remains: DoorDash vs. Uber Eats—which one is actually worth your time?
Searching online can be confusing. Some drivers swear by the high order volume of DoorDash, while others prefer the flexibility of Uber Eats. So, which one puts more money in your pocket at the end of the day?
In this guide, we aren’t just guessing. We have analyzed real feedback from drivers across the US, compared the latest pay structures, and looked at the “hidden” costs of both apps. If you are trying to decide between DoorDash vs. Uber Eats for drivers, read on to find out which app wins the battle for the best side hustle this year.
Quick Comparison Table (At a Glance)
| Feature | DoorDash | Uber Eats |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Age Requirement | 18+ years (depending on city/vehicle) | 19+ years (21+ for car in some locations) |
| Vehicle Types | Car, Scooter, Bike, E-bike (Varies by market) | Car, Scooter, Bike, Walk (Varies by market) |
| Earning Estimate (Per Hour) | $15 – $20/Hour (Excluding Peak Pay) | $16 – $22/Hour (Excluding Surges) |
| Payment Frequency | Weekly, or Instant Pay (via DasherDirect or a fee) | Weekly, or Instant Pay (via Instant Pay/fee) |
| Scheduling Flexibility | Requires scheduling (Dash Now limited) | Highly flexible (Work anytime) |
| Order Volume | Generally Higher (especially dinner) | Varies (often higher during peak) |
| Best For | Consistent high volume, high order counts | Flexibility, higher average pay during surges |
Sign-Up Requirements: Which is Easier?
Before you can start earning, you have to get approved. Both DoorDash and Uber Eats have straightforward application processes, but they have slight differences in their minimum requirements and, critically, how long they take for approval.
DoorDash Requirements (The Quick Start)
DoorDash is generally considered the fastest way to get on the road, especially for those without a traditional car.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old in most states. (Note: Some states like Texas, Florida, and Arizona require 19+). In California, it’s 21+. |
| Vehicle | Flexible. Any car, scooter, motorcycle, bike, or even on foot (in select dense city centers) is usually acceptable. |
| Documentation | Valid Driver’s License (for motor vehicles) or a government-issued ID (for bike/walk), Social Security Number (SSN), and proof of auto insurance (if driving). |
| Background Check | Required. This checks your criminal history and driving record (if driving). It is typically completed by a third party like Checkr and usually takes 3-10 days, but can sometimes be quicker. |
| Vehicle Age/Condition | No strict requirements on vehicle year, make, or model. |
Uber Eats Requirements (Slightly Stricter)
Uber Eats often has slightly higher age minimums and is less flexible than DoorDash in some regions.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 19 years old (for car delivery). 18 years old for bike or on-foot delivery. |
| Vehicle | Car, scooter, or bike. While requirements vary by city, they often prefer a 2-door or 4-door vehicle. |
| Documentation | Valid Driver’s License, proof of valid vehicle registration, proof of auto insurance (with your name on the document), and Social Security Number (SSN). |
| Background Check | Required. Reviews driving record and criminal history. The process is similar to DoorDash and can take 3-7 days. |
| Insurance | Must meet the state’s minimum requirements. You must be listed on the insurance policy. |
The Verdict: Who Gets You Driving Faster?
For a brand-new driver, DoorDash usually wins on speed and accessibility.
- 18-Year-Olds: If you are 18 and live outside of the stricter states (like Florida or Texas), DoorDash is likely your only option to start driving immediately.
- No Car: If you only plan to deliver by bike or on foot in a city center, both apps are great, but DoorDash often has more markets available for this delivery type.
The biggest potential hurdle for both is the Background Check. If you have a clean record, the wait is usually just a few days. If either company is experiencing a high volume of new applicants in your area, you might be placed on a waitlist—something you can’t control.
Pay Structure Breakdown
The biggest factor in the DoorDash vs. Uber Eats debate is how much you actually earn. Since both platforms consider you an independent contractor (meaning they don’t guarantee an hourly wage), understanding the components of your pay is crucial.
A. How DoorDash Calculates Driver Pay
DoorDash uses a simple three-part payment model:
- Base Pay: This is the minimum amount DoorDash pays you for a delivery. It ranges from $2 to $10+ per order. This pay is calculated based on time, distance, and desirability (how difficult the order is for Dashers to accept).
- Peak Pay: This is a bonus offered during busy hours or in high-demand zones (like during bad weather or Friday dinner rush). This money is added directly to your Base Pay.
- Customer Tips: 100% of the customer tip goes directly to the Dasher.
DoorDash Earning Potential (Research Required)
Based on recent driver reports, DoorDash’s average earnings generally fall into these ranges:
- Low End (Off-Peak): $15 – $18 per hour
- High End (Peak Pay): $25 – $30/hour
- The Downside: DoorDash’s algorithm may sometimes hide the full tip amount when presenting an offer, forcing drivers to “gamble” on acceptance.
How Uber Eats Calculates Driver Pay
Uber Eats uses a dynamic pricing model that includes more variables, making it slightly more complex but often rewarding during peak times.
- Base Fare: This includes pickup fee, drop-off fee, and mileage/time compensation.
- Trip Supplement: This is Uber’s equivalent of Peak Pay. It is added to orders that have been waiting a long time or are in areas with high demand, incentivizing drivers to accept them.
- Customer Tips: As with DoorDash, 100% of the tip goes to the driver.
Uber Eats Earning Potential (Research Required)
Uber Eats often shows better results when working during high-demand “Surge” periods:
- Low End (Off-Peak): $17 – $20 per hour
- High End (Surge Pricing): $28 – $35 per hour
- The Upside: Uber Eats typically shows the estimated pay including the tip upfront before you accept an order, giving drivers more certainty.
The Hidden Tax on Earnings (The 1099 Reality)
Since both apps treat you as a freelance contractor (issuing a 1099 tax form), you are responsible for paying your own taxes and expenses.