Dasher Sign Up: From Application to Your First Delivery

Back in 2015, DoorDash kicked things off in Canada, starting out in Toronto. What began as a small launch has blown up big time—now it’s everywhere, from the busiest cities to smaller towns coast to coast.

From there, it really took off—now you’ll find it in hundreds of cities across the country, from the big hubs like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Victoria, and Quebec City, reaching right into mid-sized communities and even the smaller towns along the way.

Basically, millions of Canadians can now get their eats and essentials dropped off at their door without breaking a sweat.

For customers, DoorDash makes it super easy to grab a bite from their favourite local spots or big chains, order groceries, or pick up daily essentials—all with just a few taps in the app. What most people don’t see is that it’s thousands of Dashers keeping everything moving. A Dasher is the one who picks up your order and brings it straight to your door.

Now, for a lot of folks in Canada, signing up as a Dasher is a pretty sweet deal. Here’s why it’s so popular:

Total flexibility – You’re the boss of your own schedule. Wanna dash for a couple of hours on the weekend? Maybe just at lunch? Or even every day? Totally up to you
Freedom to choose where you work – Stay close to home, dash downtown, or even pick up orders if you’re out of town
Quick cash – DoorDash pays weekly straight to your bank, and in some spots, you can even cash out instantly
Easy to get started – No crazy requirements. You don’t even need a car—bike, scooter, or even just walking in busy downtown areas works too.

No surprise then that Canadians from all walks of life are trying out dashing for themselves.

A student in Montreal might squeeze in a few runs between classes, someone in Vancouver could use it to top up their part-time income, and a Toronto local might use your evenings to rack up some extra bucks on the side.

That kind of flexibility fits right in with the busy, go-with-the-flow lifestyle many Canadians love.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a Dasher in Canada. We’ll walk you through the requirements, step-by-step sign-up tips, and the common slip-ups that can slow you down.

Once you’ve got the full picture, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running and start your first delivery with DoorDash.

Why Become a Dasher?

A lot of folks up here pick up dashing ’cause it’s got the kind of flexibility and extra cash you don’t usually find in a regular 9-to-5. No surprise it’s catching on with all sorts of people—students, part-timers, even anyone who just wants full control over their own schedule.

Here’s the low-down on why dashing is such a sweet gig in Canada:

• Work on Your Own Clock

No set shifts, no boss breathing down your neck. You decide when to hop on—maybe over lunch, after class, late at night, or just weekends. For a lot of Canadians juggling busy lives, that kind of freedom is the real deal.

• Roll With Whatever Wheels You’ve Got

You don’t always need a car to deliver. DoorDash lets you roll with a bike, scooter, motorbike, or even just on foot if you’re downtown in places like Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver. Makes it super easy for more folks to jump in without worrying about owning a ride.

• Quick Cash in the Bank

Dashers get paid every week straight into their Canadian bank account. And if you’re in a Fast Pay zone, you can cash out right away—pretty handy when you need some quick bucks for rent, gas, or a Friday night out.

• Work Wherever You Happen to Be

Live out in the suburbs? Dash there. Headed downtown for the day? You can still pick up orders. That flexibility means you can squeeze dashing into your life without flipping your whole routine upside down.

• No Fancy Resume Needed

As long as you’re 18, got some ID, and pass the background check, you’re good to go. You don’t need years of experience—perfect if you’re new to Canada, an international student, or just dipping your toes into your first job.

• A Slice of the Gig Life

The gig economy’s booming across Canada, and dashing lets you be part of it. You’re not just earning—you’re trying out a new way of working that’s more independent, flexible, and right on trend.

With all these perks, it’s no wonder more and more Canadians are signing up to dash. The freedom, the extra cash, and the chill vibes make it one of the most popular app-based gigs out there.

Basic Requirements in Canada

Before you jump on board as a Dasher, there are a few basics you gotta tick off. Nothing too wild—it’s just to make sure everyone’s working safely, legally, and playing by the rules in each province. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Gotta Be at Least 18

Simple one: you’ve gotta be 18 or older. That’s the minimum across the country, no wiggle room there.

• Social Insurance Number (SIN)

Every Dasher’s gotta have a SIN—basically your ticket to working legally in Canada. You’ll pop it in during sign-up so they can verify you.

• A Valid Driver’s Licence (If You’re Driving)

If you’re using a car, you’ll need a licence that’s valid in your province
On a scooter or motorbike? Rules can shift a bit depending where you live
Rocking a bike or just walking orders around downtown? No licence needed, but you still gotta show valid government ID.

• Vehicle Insurance & Registration

If you’re rolling with a car, scooter, or motorbike, your ride needs to be insured and properly registered. Keeps you and everyone else on the road covered.

• A Smartphone That Can Keep Up

Every Dasher needs a phone that can handle the app and stay connected.

iPhone with iOS 15.0 or newer
Android with 10.0 or newer.

And yeah—you’ll want solid data or Wi-Fi, otherwise no orders will come through.

• Email & Canadian Bank Account

You’ll need an email for updates and account stuff. And a Canadian bank account’s a must, since that’s where your weekly paycheques land.

• Background Check

Everyone goes through a background check—it looks at your criminal record and driving history (if you’re using a vehicle). It’s done by a third-party, so DoorDash knows everything’s above board.

Bottom line: if you’re 18+, got your ID (and a SIN), plus the right papers for your vehicle if you’re driving, you’re good to go. From there, it’s just hitting the sign-up button and getting started.

Vehicle Options

One of the best things about dashing in Canada? You don’t need to own a car to get rolling. DoorDash gives you a bunch of ways to deliver, depending on your city and what works for you. Here’s the lineup:

• Car

The classic choice most Dashers go with
Gotta have valid insurance and registration in your province
Perfect if you’re running mid- to long-distance trips, like in big cities such as Toronto or Calgary where orders can be spread out

• Motorcycle / Scooter

Accepted in certain big cities, depending on provincial rules
You’ll need the proper licence for your ride plus active insurance
Handy in spots like Vancouver or Montreal—cuts through traffic way easier than a car.

• Bicycle

Super popular downtown where bike lanes are solid, like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver
No driver’s licence or vehicle insurance needed, but you’ll still need valid ID
Great for students or city folks who wanna keep costs low while staying active.

• On Foot

Yup, you can even dash just by walking—available in dense areas like downtown Ottawa or near campuses
No wheels, no licence, no insurance
Perfect if you’re surrounded by restaurants and everything’s close by.

Heads Up

• Vehicle options can change depending on your city. When you sign up, the app shows what’s available where you live.

• If you’re on a motor vehicle, insurance and a valid licence are non-negotiable.

• Biking or walking? Make sure you’re up for cardio—this gig keeps you moving.

Whether you’re cruising in a car, pedalling through traffic, or just hoofing it around downtown, there’s a way for just about anyone in Canada to get in on dashing.

Background Check in Canada

When you’re signing up to be a Dasher, one of the big steps is the background check. Yep, everyone’s gotta do it—whether you’re driving a car, zipping on a bike, or just walking. The whole point is to keep things safe for customers, restaurants, and fellow folks on the road.

Who Runs It

DoorDash teams up with third-party companies like Checkr (or other local providers in Canada). The whole process is done online, so no need to line up at an office or anything.

What You’ll Need

Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) to prove you’re good to work
A piece of valid ID, like your driver’s licence, passport, or provincial card
If you’re driving, your driving record will get checked too

What They Look At

Criminal record: Making sure there’s no serious stuff like assault, theft, or major offences
Driving history: If you’re using a motor vehicle, they’ll check for big red flags—things like DUIs, fatal crashes, or a suspended licence

How Long It Takes

Usually 3–10 business days, depending on your documents and your province’s system. Some folks hear back in just a few days, while others might wait a bit longer if things need clarifying.

What Happens After

If you pass, your application moves forward and your account gets activated
If you don’t, DoorDash usually explains why—like a criminal record or a serious driving issue.

Privacy Matters

All your info stays private. Results aren’t shared with anyone outside of DoorDash and the background check provider.

The background check’s just a way to make sure Dashers are safe and reliable. As long as you don’t have major criminal charges or sketchy driving history, you’ll probably cruise right through it.

Step-by-Step Sign-Up Process

Signing up to be a Dasher in Canada is super straightforward—it’s all done online through the official DoorDash site or the Dasher app. Here’s how it goes, step by step:

1. Head to the Site or Grab the App

Hop on the DoorDash sign-up page or just download the Dasher app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).

Tap on “Become a Dasher” and you’re off to the races.

2. Create Your Account

Toss in your active email and a valid Canadian phone number
Set up a solid password so your account’s locked down
You’ll get a quick verification code by text or email—pop that in and you’re good.

3. Fill In Your Personal Info

Full name (exactly as it shows on your ID)
Date of birth (yep, you need to be at least 18)
Your Canadian home address (helps decide your delivery zone)
Your Social Insurance Number (SIN) for work eligibility.

4. Pick Your Wheels (or Your Feet)

Choose how you’ll be delivering—car, scooter, bike, or just walking.

If you’re using a motor vehicle, you’ll need to upload your driver’s licence, registration, and proof of insurance
If you’re biking or walking, just your government-issued ID will do

5. Upload Your ID

Snap a clear photo of your driver’s licence or another valid government ID. Make sure it’s sharp, not blurry, and still valid.

6. Background Check

Fill out the background check form and give the thumbs-up for verification.

They’ll look at your criminal record, and if you’re driving, your driving history too.

Usually takes 3–10 business days, but sometimes faster.

7. Set Up Your Pay Info

Enter your Canadian bank account details so your weekly pay can land straight in your account.

Big banks like RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, and CIBC all work fine—just make sure the account name matches your ID.

8. Optional Training Video

Some cities offer a quick in-app training vid. It covers the basics—how to use the app, accept orders, and handle deliveries like a pro.

9. Activate Your Account

Once your docs are verified and the background check clears, your account goes live.

Just log into the Dasher app, flip your status to “Available,” and boom—you’re ready to start dashing.

The whole process is easy and 100% online. If your docs are all set, most folks get activated in under two weeks—and sometimes way faster.

Receiving Your Dasher Kit

Once your account’s approved and you’ve passed the background check, DoorDash usually hooks you up with a starter pack called the Dasher Kit. It’s basically your gear to get rolling like a pro.

What’s in the Kit?

Red Card: A prepaid card from DoorDash you’ll need for certain orders. Not every delivery uses it, but every Dasher’s gotta have one
Hot Bag / Thermal Bag: Keeps the food hot (or cold) and fresh while you’re on the move. Some cities make it mandatory, but honestly, it just makes you look more professional
Quick Start Guide: A short how-to that shows you the ropes—using the app, handling your first delivery, that sort of thing

How Do You Get It?

Shipped to Your Place: Most of the time, DoorDash mails it straight to the address you signed up with. Usually takes about 5–7 business days, depending where you live
Pick It Up: In bigger cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, you might have the option to grab your kit at a local hub or partner spot

Can You Dash Without It?

Yep—you can sometimes start dashing right away even if your kit hasn’t shown up yet. But for any order that needs the Red Card or a Hot Bag, you’ll have to wait until you’ve got the gear.

Some Dashers even grab their own thermal bag early so they can hit the ground running.

Pro Tips

Keep your Red Card safe—it’s a pain if you lose it
Use the Hot Bag every time, not just when it’s required. Happy customers = better ratings (and sometimes better tips)
Store your kit somewhere handy so you’re always ready to go

With your Dasher Kit in hand, you’re all set to jump into your first delivery and start earning.

Why Applications Get Rejected

Signing up for DoorDash in Canada looks pretty simple, but lots of folks still get turned down—usually over small slip-ups or missing the basics. Here are the most common reasons apps don’t make the cut:

Expired or Invalid Docs

Driver’s licence past its expiry date
Vehicle insurance not active
Registration that’s out of date or not valid in your province
Uploading old or wrong documents that just don’t fly

Blurry or Incomplete Uploads

Photos of your licence, ID, or insurance that look like they were taken with a potato
Key details—like your name, DOB, or numbers—can’t be read
Only snapping the front of your licence and forgetting the back

Background Check Issues

Serious criminal history, especially anything to do with safety or trust
Major driving offences like DUIs, reckless driving, or recorded serious crashes.

Personal Info Doesn’t Match

Name spelled differently between your app, SIN, and driver’s licence
Address doesn’t line up with your supporting docs
Even a small typo on your birthday can trigger an auto-rejection

Missing the Basic Requirements

Under 18 years old
No valid SIN for working in Canada
Using an international or temporary licence that isn’t accepted
No proper vehicle or active insurance when it’s required.

Skipping the Background Check

Not giving consent for the screening
Filling it out halfway or leaving blanks so the system can’t process it

Banking Info Problems

Entering an invalid bank account or one that isn’t in your name
Typos in account numbers, transit numbers, or institution numbers that make the system reject it.

At the end of the day, most apps get rejected not ’cause DoorDash is too strict, but ’cause applicants miss small details. Double-check your docs, keep things clear, and your chances of getting approved go way up.

How to Get Your Application Approved

Most folks don’t get rejected ’cause the requirements are too tough—it’s usually just small slip-ups during sign-up. Wanna boost your chances of getting approved faster?

Here’s what to keep in mind:

Keep Your Docs Up to Date

Make sure your driver’s licence is valid in your province—no expired cards
Insurance and registration gotta be active and under your name (or at least list you as an approved driver)
If you’re biking or walking, you’ll still need valid government ID, like a provincial card or passport.

Stick With Your Official Name

Whatever name you put on the app has to match your ID and SIN exactly
Skip nicknames or abbreviations—if the system spots a mismatch, it’ll kick it back

Upload Clear, Readable Docs

Take photos in good lighting so nothing’s blurry
Make sure the whole doc is visible—no glare, no chopped-off edges
If the upload looks messy, redo it with a sharper camera

Fill Out Your Info Properly

Double-check your address, date of birth, and phone number
Even tiny typos (like one wrong digit in your birthday) can slow things down

Don’t Skip the Background Check

Say yes to the background check and make sure your info (SIN, DOB, address) matches perfectly
The cleaner and clearer the data, the quicker the approval

Double-Check Your Bank Details

Enter the right Transit Number, Institution Number, and Account Number for your Canadian bank
Use an account in your own name—otherwise, payments could get messy

Keep Your Email & Phone Active

DoorDash will send updates if something’s off with your docs
Make sure you can always access your email and texts, so you don’t miss anything

Use a Valid Address in a Supported City

DoorDash only runs in certain Canadian cities—like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, Ottawa, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Quebec City
If you sign up with an address outside the active zones, your app could get delayed or denied

The real secret? Keep your documents consistent, your info crystal clear, and take the background check seriously. Do that, and your chances of getting approved are pretty darn high.

Conclusion

Signing up as a Dasher in Canada isn’t complicated—it’s a straightforward way to earn extra income while keeping control of your own schedule. All it takes is creating an account, uploading the right documents (licence, insurance, SIN), and passing the background check. Once approved, your Dasher Kit with the Red Card and hot bag will be on the way, and you’ll be ready for your first delivery.

The biggest key to getting approved is accuracy. Most rejections happen not because people don’t qualify, but because of blurry uploads, mismatched info, or missed steps in the background check. Double-check your details, keep everything consistent, and you’ll speed up the approval process.

In cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Edmonton, Winnipeg, and Quebec City, DoorDash has already become part of everyday life. Thousands of Dashers there enjoy the freedom to work their own hours—whether by car, bike, scooter, or even on foot in certain areas.

At the end of the day, becoming a Dasher means more than just deliveries—it’s about flexibility, extra earnings, and being part of Canada’s growing delivery network.

If you live in Canada and meet the basic requirements, your chances of getting approved are high. Just follow each step carefully, and before you know it, you’ll be out on the road completing your first delivery.