Can You Drive for Grubhub with a DUI Record?

Can You Drive for Grubhub with a DUI Record?

Can You Drive for Grubhub with a DUI Record?

Explore Grubhub's driver requirements and background check process. Find out how past driving records impact eligibility for food delivery work.

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Jan 28, 2025

Can You Drive for Grubhub with a DUI Record?

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Table of Contents

A DUI record affects your eligibility to drive for Grubhub, but the specific impact depends on several factors.

As someone who wants to join the growing food delivery industry, you need clear information about how a DUI influences your application.

The rules around DUIs and delivery driving vary by state and circumstances.

Your location, the age of the offense, and your overall driving record all play crucial roles in determining your eligibility.

Let me share everything I've learned about Grubhub's policies and your options with a DUI on your record.

Grubhub's Driver Eligibility Standards

Looking at my research into Grubhub's DUI policies, I can tell you their requirements are specific and strict. The company expects a clean driving record for the past seven years, which directly affects applicants with a DUI history.

Here's what you need to know about Grubhub's driving standards:

  • A single DUI conviction within seven years typically prevents approval

  • Three minor violations in three years (like speeding tickets) will disqualify you

  • DUIs involving accidents carry even stronger consequences

  • A DUI stays on your criminal record and shows up in background checks

Grubhub takes this stance because they put customer safety first.

Even though a DUI might seem less serious than a DWI, both show judgment issues that concern delivery services.

I've seen how this affects people's applications - it's a significant challenge, but knowing the specifics helps you understand where you stand.

Grubhub's Background Check System

My experience with Grubhub's screening process shows how seriously they take driver verification.

They work with a company called Checkr to run comprehensive background checks that look at:

  • Your complete driving record for the past seven years

  • Criminal history reports from state and national databases

  • Motor vehicle records from your state's DMV

  • Any DUI or DWI convictions on your record

One thing I learned that's particularly important: Grubhub might run additional background checks even after you start driving.

This means a new DUI could end your driving privileges immediately.

You should also know that Checkr offers a free background check through their Better Future program - I suggest running this check yourself before applying to know exactly what Grubhub will see.

Here's what happens during the background check:

  • Checkr pulls records from multiple official sources

  • They look specifically at driving-related offenses

  • The system flags any DUIs or serious traffic violations

  • You'll get a chance to dispute any incorrect information

The whole process takes about 5-7 business days.

If anything comes up in your check, Grubhub sends you an email explaining what they found and what it means for your application.

State Laws and Insurance Requirements After a DUI Each state handles DUIs differently, which affects your ability to drive for Grubhub.

Let me break down what this means for you:

State DUI Policies

Based on my research of different states' approaches:

  • California requires a 10-year clean record for commercial driving

  • Texas enforces a 7-year restriction on delivery services

  • New York may allow driving after 3 years with completed rehabilitation

  • Florida requires SR-22 insurance certification after a DUI

Insurance Requirements

Your DUI history changes what insurance you need. Here's what I've learned about coverage requirements.

Basic Coverage Needs:

  • Personal injury protection: $15,000-50,000 (varies by state)

  • Total accident coverage: $30,000-100,000

  • Property damage: $5,000-25,000

Extra DUI Requirements:

  • SR-22 certification in most states

  • Higher coverage limits than standard policies

  • Specific rideshare or delivery endorsements

  • Proof of financial responsibility

The costs reflect your DUI history:

  • Insurance premiums typically double

  • SR-22 filing adds $15-25 monthly

  • Commercial coverage costs extra

  • Some states require 3-5 years of higher coverage

Getting the right insurance matters because Grubhub verifies your coverage before approval.

I always suggest talking with an insurance agent who knows your state's specific rules for delivery drivers with DUIs.

How Other Delivery Services Handle DUIs

Let me share what I've found about different delivery services' DUI policies, so you can explore all your options:

DoorDash

  • Look-back period: 7 years

  • Uses Checkr for background checks

  • May accept older DUIs case-by-case

  • Allows appeals for denied applications

  • Offers bicycle delivery alternatives Average wait time after DUI: 7 years

Uber Eats

  • Look-back period: 7-10 years (varies by state)

  • Stricter standards than food-only services

  • Zero tolerance for multiple violations

  • No appeals process for DUI denials

  • Requires commercial insurance in some states Average wait time after DUI: 7-10 years

Postmates

  • Look-back period: 7 years

  • More flexible on older violations

  • Reviews cases individually

  • Allows alternative delivery methods

  • Considers rehabilitation evidence Average wait time after DUI: 7 years

Key Differences I've Found:

  • DoorDash and Postmates tend to be more flexible

  • Uber Eats maintains stricter standards

  • Grubhub falls between these extremes

  • Each platform uses slightly different screening companies

  • Appeal processes vary significantly

Application Strategy Tips:

  • Apply to multiple services to increase chances

  • Start with more flexible platforms first

  • Consider bike delivery options across platforms

  • Keep documentation of rehabilitation ready

  • Check each service's specific state requirements

The main takeaway: while Grubhub's seven-year policy is standard, other services might work for you depending on your specific situation.

I recommend applying to several platforms, starting with those known to be more flexible with older violations.

Clearing Your Record: Legal Options After a DUI

Legal options exist to address a DUI on your record. Here's what I've learned about these possibilities.

Expungement Basics

What it does for you:

  • Removes the DUI from public records

  • Shows up as dismissed on background checks

  • Helps with job applications

  • May qualify you for delivery work sooner

  • Restores certain driving privileges

Requirements I've Found:

  • Complete all probation terms

  • Pay all fines and restitution

  • Maintain a clean record

  • Wait required time period (varies by state)

  • Complete court-ordered programs

State-by-State Process Guide California:

  • File under Penal Code 1203.4

  • Wait time: 1-3 years minimum

  • Cost: $120-400 filing fee

  • Success rate: 82% if eligible

Texas:

  • Limited to certain DUI cases

  • Wait time: 3-5 years

  • Cost: $200-500 filing fee

  • Must meet strict eligibility rules

New York:

  • Offers sealing instead of expungement

  • Wait time: 10 years

  • Cost: $160 filing fee

  • Requires clean record since DUI

Practical Steps to Take:

  1. Get your complete driving record

  2. Request your criminal background report

  3. Check your state's specific requirements

  4. Gather proof of completed requirements

  5. Consider consulting a legal aid clinic

Time and Cost Expectations:

  • Process length: 3-6 months average

  • Legal fees: $400-1,500 if using attorney

  • Court costs: $100-500

  • Program fees: Vary by state

  • Total investment: $500-2,000 average

Success Tips:

  • Start the process early

  • Keep detailed records

  • Meet all court deadlines

  • Follow up regularly

  • Consider legal assistance for complex cases

The expungement process takes time and money, but it's often worth the investment. My research shows that cleared records significantly improve your chances with delivery services.

Your Next Steps

A DUI affects your chances with Grubhub, but you have several options to move forward.

Immediate Actions You Can Take:

  1. Check your DUI date - if it's over 7 years old, apply directly

  2. Run a personal background check through Better Future

  3. Look into bike delivery options in your area

  4. Consider alternative delivery services with different policies

  5. Start the record expungement process if eligible

Long-term Success Strategies:

  • Complete all court-ordered programs

  • Maintain a clean driving record

  • Gather proof of rehabilitation

  • Build delivery experience through bike services

  • Keep documentation of all completed requirements

Quick Answers to Common Questions

Can I appeal Grubhub's background check decision?

Yes, you can submit an appeal through Checkr if you believe there's an error. Submit your appeal within 7 days of rejection, including any supporting documentation.

What documents do I need for bike delivery?

These are the documents you need:

  • Valid state ID or driver's license

  • Proof of address

  • Social security card

  • Basic safety gear (helmet, lights)

  • Delivery bag (provided by Grubhub)

How long until I can reapply after a DUI rejection?

Wait times vary:

  • Standard wait: 7 years from conviction

  • With expungement: Can reapply immediately

  • After appeal: 30-day waiting period

  • Multiple DUIs: May face permanent restriction

What if my DUI wasn't in my current state?

All states share driving records through the National Driver Register. You'll need to:

  • Get records from both states

  • Follow stricter state's requirements

  • Consider expungement in state of conviction

  • Provide proof of completion of all programs

Remember: while a DUI presents challenges, food delivery services offer multiple paths to success. Focus on the options available now while working toward expanding your opportunities in the future.

Michael Leander

Michael Leander

Michael Leander

Senior Marketing Consultant

Michael Leander is an experienced digital marketer and an online solopreneur.

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