Explore Grubhub's driver requirements and background check process. Find out how past driving records impact eligibility for food delivery work.
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:
Get your complete driving record
Request your criminal background report
Check your state's specific requirements
Gather proof of completed requirements
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:
Check your DUI date - if it's over 7 years old, apply directly
Run a personal background check through Better Future
Look into bike delivery options in your area
Consider alternative delivery services with different policies
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.
Senior Marketing Consultant
Michael Leander is an experienced digital marketer and an online solopreneur.