So, here I was working a full-time job, thinking, “I could really use some extra cash.” But, let’s be real, finding a side gig that fits around the 9-to-5 grind and doesn’t require a ton of effort to get started? That seemed like a tall order. Enter DoorDash, the food delivery service that promises flexibility and a straightforward way to pad my wallet. If you’re in the same boat and the idea of delivering food piques your interest, stick around. I’m about to walk you through how I got started with DoorDash, and trust me, if I could do it over the age of 40, you can too.

Step 1: Checking If I Made the Cut

First things first, I had to see if I even qualified to dash. DoorDash has a few basic requirements: be at least 18, have a valid driver’s license, and own a vehicle or bike that isn’t falling apart. Oh, and passing a background check is a must. Check, check, check, and check on my end.

Step 2: Signing Up

Next up, signing up. This was as easy as pie. I hopped onto the DoorDash website (though you can also use their app) and filled out some basic info about myself. They asked for my name, where I live, and some contact details. I uploaded my driver’s license and proof of insurance, and just like that, I was in the queue to become a DoorDash driver.

Step 3: Getting Into the Groove

After getting the green light from DoorDash, it was game time. I started receiving order notifications through the app. It was totally up to me to accept or pass on them, depending on whether I was free or not and how far I wanted to drive. The flexibility was exactly what I needed.

Step 4: The Pickup

Once I accepted an order, it was time to grab the grub from the restaurant. DoorDash had me covered with the cost upfront, so I didn’t have to stress about handling money. I’d just show up, announce I was picking up a DoorDash order, and be on my way.

Step 5: The Delivery

Delivering the food was straightforward. The app guided me to the customer’s address, and I made sure to keep the food hot or cold, as needed. A quick knock on the door or a ring of the bell, and I was handing over their meal, hoping to brighten someone’s day just a tad.

Step 6: Wrapping It Up

Once the customer was happy, I’d mark the order as complete in the app and move on to the next one, if I was up for it. The payment for each delivery hit my account within a few days, which was pretty sweet.

Becoming a DoorDash driver turned out to be the perfect side hustle for me. It’s been an excellent way to earn extra money without committing to another rigid work schedule. The process was simple, the work is flexible, and I can easily fit it around my full-time job commitments. If you’re looking for a side gig that doesn’t feel like a second job, DoorDash might just be the way to go.

Got any DoorDash stories of your own? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!