Instacart is one of the biggest names in the online retail space, popular for being a platform where you can shop and deliver groceries to various customers.

To become a shopper and earn from rendering delivery services, you need to understand Instacart requirements. These requirements and how you can navigate them will form the core of this article.

An Overview of Instacart Shopper Requirements

As you can see, the only real difference between the two requirements is the vehicle.

Since you’ll be driving for deliveries, to be a full-service shopper, you need to also have a car that is registered, insured, and functioning. To become an In-Store Shopper, you won’t need this part.

Instacart Shopper Requirements Explained in Detail

For gig workers, Instacart provides two job options, depending on your work preferences and schedule.

Full-Service Shoppers

Instacart full-service shoppers are independent contractors who use the platform to shop and deliver groceries and other items to customers across the U.S. and Canada.

As a full-service shopper, you get to work on your schedule. You can select the order batches you want to work with without limits.

To become one, you have to fulfill these requirements:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be legally eligible to work within the U.S. or Canada
• Have a functional smartphone with a supported OS version (a minimum of 5.0 and 14 for Android and iOS, respectively)
• Own a functional vehicle with auto insurance as required by state laws
• Be physically able to lift at least 30 pounds
• Be capable of complying with Instacart’s food safety guidelines
• Possess a clean driving record
• Pass a criminal background check

Although the age limit for working as an independent contractor on Instacart is 18 years old, you won’t be able to accept deliveries involving alcohol unless you’re at least 21.

In-Store Shoppers

Unlike full-service shoppers, in-store shoppers have full W-2 employment status. They shop and stage orders one store at a time, and, as they’re compensated per local minimum wage laws, they don’t earn extra incentives such as tips.

Instacart in-store shoppers don’t directly interact with the customers, as the goods are passed on to delivery drivers. They also work on scheduled shifts of up to 29 hours weekly.  

To become one, you have to fulfill these criteria:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be legally eligible to work within the U.S. or Canada
• Have a functional smartphone with a supported OS version (a minimum of 5.0 and 14 for Android and iOS, respectively)
• Be physically able to lift at least 30 pounds
• Be capable of adhering to Instacart’s food safety guidelines

You can work and earn extra money as an Instacart shopper, even if you have a medical condition. The premise is that you must qualify for the job for a reasonable accommodation.

Working in in-store shopper roles is ideal if you don’t have a vehicle or have problems with your driving record.

Where Do I Have to Live to Work as an Instacart Shopper?

To work as an Instacart shopper, you have to reside in a city where Instacart and its services are available.

Today, Instacart is present in several locations across the U.S. and Canada and is constantly expanding to more cities within these countries. You can enter your postal code on the Instacart portal to see available locations.

How Do Background Checks Work for Instacart Shoppers?

Background checks are a safety procedure that all full and part-time employees have to undertake. It proves to Instacart customers that its shoppers can be trusted to deliver their goods.

Like other delivery services like Doordash, Instacart carries out criminal checks via the third-party platform Checkr. This application takes 5-10 business days for approval.

The details you provide when registering as an Instacart shopper, including your SSN and driver’s license, are run through a database. The scan then checks for information linked to any possible crime history.

If you have felonies or offenses relating to sexual abuse, violence, or intoxication, your Instacart shopper application will be denied.

Another vital qualifying criterion is your driving record, which must show a maximum of three minor violations over the last three years and zero major violations over the last seven years.

Are There Any Insurance Requirements for Instacart Shoppers?

Instacart has auto insurance requirements for its shoppers, with the rates depending on several factors:

• Credit score
• Driving history
• Age
• Marital status
• Gender
• ZIP code
• Coverage type
• Vehicle make and model

Unfortunately, Instacart doesn’t provide additional coverage in the event of an accident, so extra personal liability coverage in your auto insurance policy is advisable.

Wrapping Up

Being a full-service shopper lets you earn tips for outstanding customer service, while being an in-store shopper earns you an hourly wage as a permanent employee.

No matter what role you choose to apply for, working for Instacart is a solid gig that lets you earn money to shop for grocery items for customers.