Last Updated: April 25, 2026
To join Instacart as a shopper or delivery driver, visit instacart.com/careers/shoppers, submit your application with basic info and background check consent, pass the screening process, complete the onboarding, and start accepting orders within days.
How to Apply to Instacart
- Visit the Instacart Shoppers application page at instacart.com/careers/shoppers or download the Instacart Shopper app from your device’s app store.
- Select your role preference: Full-Service Shopper (shop and deliver) or In-Store Shopper (shop only in partner stores).
- Enter your email address, phone number, and create a secure password for your account.
- Provide your personal information including name, address, date of birth, and valid ID number to verify your identity.
- Grant consent for a background check; Instacart conducts a thorough screening process to verify your eligibility to work.
- Add your bank account details and tax information (SSN or EIN) so you can receive earnings payments via direct deposit.
- Complete the onboarding modules covering safety protocols, customer service expectations, and platform guidelines through the Shopper app.
- Wait for final approval (typically 3–7 business days) and begin accepting available orders in your area once you’re activated.
Instacart Earnings and Pay Rates
| Role/Work Type | Typical Earnings | Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Service Shopper | $15–$25/hr (Independent Contractor) | Flexible; pick shifts or on-demand |
| In-Store Shopper | $15–$19/hr (Part-Time Employee) | Scheduled shifts; some benefits available |
| Base Pay | Varies by location and order complexity | Per-order or hourly |
| Tips and Bonuses | Customer tips (100% retained) plus promotional bonuses | Accumulated with each delivery |
| Heavy Orders | Premium pay for bulk or heavy items | Per eligible order |
| Loyalty Boost | Incentive rates for consistent work | Weekly or seasonal campaigns |
Working with Instacart: What to Expect
Instacart shoppers enjoy one of the most flexible gig opportunities in grocery delivery. As a Full-Service Shopper, you’ll shop for customer orders at partner grocery stores and deliver them to their homes, earning money based on order size, complexity, and customer tips. Most shoppers report that earnings increase significantly during peak hours (mornings, evenings, and weekends) and in high-demand areas. Tips are crucial to total income and often double or triple the base payment. In-Store Shoppers work scheduled shifts within stores, picking items for online orders without delivery responsibilities, making this role ideal for those seeking more predictability and employee benefits. The Instacart app is intuitive, allowing you to view available orders, navigate to stores, and track earnings in real time. Customer ratings matter; maintaining high ratings (above 4.8 stars) keeps you eligible for better-paying orders. The platform also runs frequent promotional campaigns offering bonuses for completing a set number of orders during specific time windows, which can significantly boost weekly earnings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my own vehicle to work for Instacart?
For Full-Service Shoppers who deliver orders, yes–you need a reliable vehicle (car, truck, or motorcycle). In-Store Shoppers do not need personal transportation since they work inside partner store locations.
How quickly can I start earning after applying?
Once approved (typically 3–7 days), you can begin accepting orders immediately. Many shoppers start their first orders within a week of initial application.
Are Instacart shoppers employees or contractors?
Full-Service Shoppers are independent contractors. In-Store Shoppers are part-time employees with access to benefits such as health insurance and paid time off (varies by location).
How do I get paid and when?
Instacart deposits earnings via direct deposit weekly, typically by Tuesday. Full-Service Shoppers can also see real-time earnings in the app after each order completion.
What happens if a customer rates me poorly?
A single low rating won’t deactivate your account, but maintaining an average rating above 4.8 stars is important. Consistently poor ratings (below 4.6) may reduce order opportunities or lead to deactivation.
Can I work in multiple locations?
Yes, once approved in your home region, you can typically work in other areas where Instacart operates, though earnings and demand vary by market.