Key Takeaways
- Instacart may hire drivers with a DUI, depending on the age and number of offenses.
- Instacart conducts annual background checks through third-party companies, Checkr and Sterling.
- Disqualifications include a recent DUI, no valid license or car insurance, and recent crime convictions.
- Getting a DUI while delivering for Instacart could lead to deactivation, but outcomes vary.
Will Instacart Hire You With a DUI?
Instacart may hire you if you have a DUI on your record, but it depends on several factors.
A DUI does not automatically disqualify you, especially if your last DUI occurred over five years ago and you have maintained a clean driving record since. However, if you have multiple DUIs, your chances of being hired are significantly reduced.
I suggest applying after meeting all the primary requirements, as Instacart has accepted applicants with DUIs in the past, although some have been rejected due to poor driving records indicative of reckless behavior.
Related: Can You Drive for Uber With a DUI?
What Happens if You Get a DUI While Delivering for Instacart?
If you get a DUI while delivering for Instacart, they will find out. Checkr or Sterling will usually notify the company immediately.
In rare cases, they might not immediately pick up on the charge. But it’ll still show up on your annual background check.
What happens next depends on Instacart. For some people, a DUI while on the job can mean getting deactivated. If this happens, they’ll notify you by email, or you might be unable to log into your account.
Some people in this Reddit thread reported that nothing happened after getting a DUI.
In fact, one person claimed that they’d been active on Instacart, Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash when they got a DUI. Only DoorDash suspended their account. Strangely, all four apps get a Checkr background check report.
Regardless of what others say, you should always drive safely and avoid getting a DUI. Should it happen, you can try appealing for rehire.
An Overview of Instacart’s Background Checks
Instacart conducts mandatory background checks for all potential hires through third-party companies, Checkr and Sterling. These checks involve sharing your social security number to facilitate criminal background screenings.
The presence of a criminal conviction may disqualify you, although the impact depends on the nature and timing of the offenses.
Violent and sexual crimes are particularly scrutinized, regardless of when they occurred. DUIs and other convictions will be reviewed, with outcomes varying; some individuals with DUIs may be hired, others may not.
These background checks extend to include public driving records, ensuring a comprehensive review of an applicant’s history. Notably, DUIs are expected to be flagged during these checks. Instacart performs these screenings annually, maintaining a current assessment of their workforce’s legal standing.
Factors that may disqualify you from working with Instacart include having a DUI within the past year, lacking a valid driver’s license or car insurance, or recent criminal convictions.
Specific criteria such as rideshare insurance and the requirement to be over 18 with a valid social security number are also considered.
Wrapping Up
Instacart is a terrific opportunity to earn extra cash on your own time.
Having a DUI might lower your chances of getting hired. But Instacart won’t immediately disqualify you for it.
The company wants reliable, steady drivers who have a clean record, at least over the past few years. Don’t be discouraged from trying your luck; they might overlook your DUI.
If you still have questions about the Instacart DUI policy, let us know in the comments!
