Being a full-service shopper on Instacart is one of the most efficient and flexible ways to make money. Unfortunately, an almost perfect driving and criminal record is needed to launch your career. Does the DUI policy play a role in this?
Yes, DUI (driving under the influence) may influence Instacart’s decision to hire you. The company subjects all applicants to a compulsory background check to ensure they fit the role.
This guide explains the policy and other violations that can make Instacart reject your application. It also discusses general tips to improve your chances of getting hired despite a DUI.
What is the Instacart DUI Policy?
Instacart DUI Policy maintains that applicants will not automatically be disqualified or rejected because of a DUI violation.
While a recent violation can make it difficult to be accepted, older ones (up to 5 years ago) rarely pose a challenge, provided the driver has kept a clean record since.
Furthermore, Instacart expects all applicants to have a valid driver’s license and car insurance coverage. Unlike a DUI, failure to produce these documents and other background check information will result in disqualification.
What Disqualifies You from Working for Instacart?
While applying for most rideshare gigs, some violations or failure to provide certain documents are a dealbreaker. Here are some of them:
1. A recent DUI (especially if it is within a year)
While Instacart may overlook a DUI, your application will likely be rejected if it is very recent (within or less than a year) or if your history shows a pattern.
2. Invalid credentials
Another dealbreaker is an invalid or expired Driver’s License. Instacart immediately rejects applicants who submit invalid credentials or social security numbers.
3. You are underaged
Instacart expects its full-service shoppers to be at least 18 years of age and have a work permit in the U.S. Such individuals should also be able to carry packages up to 40 lbs without any support.
4. No car insurance
Instacart full-service shoppers are independent contractors. You must own a reliable car and will be responsible for any accident-associated damages.
Applications without rideshare insurance and accident coverage will result in an instant qualification. All insurance documents must also be in your name.
5. Recent crime convictions
Recent crime convictions such as sexual assault and reckless driving can affect your application the same way recent DUIs would. However, there is little hope you will be accepted in this case.
What Happens if You Get a DUI While Delivering for Instacart?
It will be reported to Instacart by Checkr or Sterling almost immediately. However, there are rare cases where these third-party checkers may not pick up the violation instantly. This is where Instacart’s annual check comes in.
Such violations will eventually pop up on your annual background check result, and what happens next is entirely up to Instacart. In most cases, your account will likely be deactivated.
However, there have been reports claiming that nothing will happen. While this may sound like good news, such individuals may have appealed to be rehired or got extremely lucky.
Unfortunately, not everyone will be lucky. Hence, always drive safely and avoid DUIs (and other violations).
Does Instacart Hire Felons?
Like a DUI, felony offenses in the past won’t earn you an instant disqualification. However, it all depends on how long the crime was committed and if the culprit shows signs of rehabilitation.
Felony convictions over 7 years ago will likely be overlooked during most onboarding processes. Please note that this does not include violent or sexual-related cases that may not be so lucky.
General Tips That Can Improve Your Chances of Acceptance
While acceptance policy varies from time to time, here are some general tips to keep in mind when applying to Instacart with a DUI on your record:
- Be honest: Being truthful at the initial stage of your application and declaring your DUI conviction is always a great strategy. This way, the third-party company responsible for your background check won’t be surprised.
- Highlight your strengths: It is also important to highlight your strengths, positive qualities, and experience relevant to the gig.
- Show rehabilitation: Include in your application steps or programs you have completed to address the DUI. This demonstrates to your employers that you are actively working to improve yourself.
- Research local regulations: Understanding local regulations can also help you know the regions to target. This is because some regions may have stricter background check requirements for Instacart shoppers.
FAQs
How long will it take Instacart to approve your application?
3 to 10 days (on average). It may take longer depending on the number of applicants, your location, and if there is a need to submit extra credentials.
How do you know if you got approved for Instacart?
You will get an email to this effect. This email will also feature the steps you are expected to take to become a shopper.
How much do Instacart full-service shoppers make?
They make an average of $15 to $25 per hour. It could be more during peak hours and in larger cities.
Conclusion: Will Instacart Hire You With a DUI?
A DUI violation in your driving history is usually not enough reason for your application to be denied, especially if it happened more than 5 years ago. The most important thing is to fulfill the primary requirements.
In addition, Instacart operates a lenient DUI policy compared to other rideshare brands like Uber. It is more concerned about hiring reliable drivers or those with a high probability of maintaining a clean slate.
However, a recent DUI (within one year) may indicate that you have a pattern for such violations and may hamper your selection. In this case, you should wait a few more years before applying.
I hope you found this guide helpful. While preparing to apply or waiting for approval from Instacart, please see how shoppers pay for groceries.
Thanks for reading.
