Thinking about signing up to shop and deliver groceries this year? Below is a clear, up-to-date rundown of Instacart shopper requirements in 2025.
If you’ve ever wondered, “What are the requirements to be an Instacart shopper?”
This guide answers it with the practical details you need to quickly check your Instacart shopper eligibility.
The Two Ways To Work With Instacart
Instacart historically offered two roles.
Full-service shopper (independent contractor)
You accept orders in the Shopper app, shop in the store, and deliver to the customer. This is the primary path most applicants choose in 2025.
It’s flexible, and you’ll need access to a vehicle plus a recent smartphone.
In-store shopper (employee, limited markets)
You pick and stage orders at a single store; the job is hourly and doesn’t require a car.
Availability varies by location and may be limited, so most people should assume the full-service path unless they see a local in-store posting.
Instacart Shopper Requirements in 2025
Here’s what Instacart typically checks for U.S. shoppers.
- Age & identity: You must be 18 or older. Instacart verifies age and identity during sign-up. A valid driver’s license is required if you will be delivering, and you’ll provide your Social Security number for screening and tax purposes.
- Background screening: You must pass criminal and motor-vehicle record checks conducted by third-party screeners. For delivery, a clean driving history is important.
- Work authorization: You must be eligible to work in the U.S. (Canadian markets have their own terms; details vary by province.)
- Vehicle access (full-service): Consistent access to a vehicle is standard for deliveries. In some dense urban areas, Instacart may support e-bikes or mopeds for short-distance deliveries, but availability is location-specific.
- Smartphone: You need a recent smartphone that runs the Shopper app reliably. On iPhone, plan for a modern iOS version; on Android, plan for Android 6.0 or later as a baseline. Reliable mobile data and location services are essential.
- Physical capability: Expect to lift around 40 lb (with or without accommodation). Many orders include beverages, pet food, or bulk items.
- Banking for pay: Shoppers are paid by weekly direct deposit and can use Instant Cashout in many markets. Practically speaking, you’ll want a checking account to receive direct deposits without friction.
- Food safety gear: Instacart expects shoppers to use insulated bags or coolers for temperature-sensitive items (frozen foods, dairy, meats) to keep orders safe and compliant from store to door.
Alcohol Orders: Optional But Stricter
Handling alcohol is voluntary, but if you opt in there are extra rules.
You typically must be 21+, complete a brief alcohol-delivery module, and verify the recipient’s ID at the door.
If the customer can’t meet age or ID requirements, you’ll follow return or cancellation procedures set by policy and by local law.
Device & App Specifics
A good mobile device is among the requirements for an Instacart shopper in 2025.
- iPhone: The Instacart Shopper app generally requires a current iOS version. If your phone is stuck on a much older iOS, you may not be able to install or reliably use the app.
- Android: While the exact requirement can shift by release, Android 6.0+ is a safe baseline. Some devices with older security patches may still experience performance issues; if your phone is outdated, consider upgrading before you begin.
- Data & location: Plan on a reliable data connection and location services enabled. The app uses GPS for navigation and order tracking, in-app scanning during checkout, and messaging with customers.
Background Checks: What They Include
Instacart uses third-party partners to run criminal and motor-vehicle checks before you can shop.
Identity verification may include photo matching and periodic prompts to confirm that the account holder is the one shopping.
Processing times vary by jurisdiction; some screens complete quickly, while others take longer if local records are slower to access.
If your report shows issues, you may receive guidance on dispute or adjudication steps.
Vehicle & Equipment Details
Most of these items are verified during sign-up, and the process is largely app-based.
Car & insurance
For full-service shoppers, you’ll need consistent access to a vehicle and a valid driver’s license; state-required auto insurance applies.
If you share a car, ensure you have reliable access during the hours you plan to shop.
E-bikes/mopeds (select areas)
Some markets support e-bike or moped delivery for short distances and smaller loads.
Rules vary by city and retailer, and weather or terrain can affect practicality. Check your local market’s options in the app.
Insulated bags/coolers
Using insulated bags helps protect perishables and can be required by some retailers for order handoff.
It’s a small investment that improves customer experience and reduces refund risk.
Instacart payment card
Full-service shoppers receive a preloaded payment card to pay at checkout when needed (some retailers support pay-in-app).
Activate it promptly and keep it secure.
How You’re Paid
Instacart pays shoppers via weekly direct deposit, and Instant Cashout is available in many markets for faster access to earnings.
Tips from customers are a meaningful part of shopper earnings; you’ll see them in the app, and they can update after delivery if customers adjust.
Keeping a bank account connected ensures smooth payouts and reduces delays.
Tips To Get Approved Faster
Use the same legal name and address across your driver’s license, bank account, and app profile. Mismatches slow verification.
Recent major violations or suspensions can derail approval for delivery roles.
Approval steps sometimes require quick responses (e.g., document re-captures). Keep app notifications on.
Get insulated bags and a phone mount for your car. You’ll be ready to accept batches as soon as you’re cleared.
Common Edge Cases
Not 21 yet? You can still shop and deliver non-alcohol orders if you meet the other requirements; simply don’t opt in to alcohol deliveries.
Older phone? If your device can’t meet the Shopper app’s current requirements, you’ll need a compatible phone before you can reliably accept batches.
Limited mobility or lifting: Instacart expects the ability to lift around 40 lb. If heavy loads are a concern, consider focusing on smaller orders or in-store roles.
Insurance and registration issues: Make sure your auto insurance and registration are current.
Bottom Line
Instacart shopper requirements in 2025 are acceptable.
With those boxes ticked, you can apply in minutes and start choosing batches once you’re cleared.
