What Amazon Flex Is and Who Can Do It
Amazon Flex is Amazon's independent contractor delivery program. You use your own vehicle to deliver packages from Amazon warehouses to customers' homes, usually in two-hour or three-hour blocks. You are not an Amazon employee — you set your own schedule, choose which delivery blocks to work, and keep a portion of what Amazon pays you for each block.
Amazon Flex operates in most U.S. metropolitan areas and some smaller cities. The program is open to people who are at least 21 years old, have a valid driver's license, own a vehicle that meets Amazon's requirements, and pass a background check. You work as an independent contractor, which means you handle your own taxes, insurance, and vehicle maintenance.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 21, hold a valid driver's license, own a may have access to vehicle, and pass Amazon's background check before you can start delivering.
- The process process takes place entirely through the Amazon Flex app and typically takes one to two weeks from start to first delivery block.
- Your vehicle must be registered, insured, and in good condition; Amazon may inspect it before approving you.
- You claim delivery blocks through the app on a first-come, first-served basis, and Amazon pays per block, not per hour or per package.
- As an independent contractor, you pay your own taxes, vehicle expenses, and insurance — Amazon does not withhold taxes or provide benefits.
Vehicle Requirements and Insurance
Your vehicle must be a 2000 model year or newer (some areas require 2005 or newer), registered in your name, and insured with a policy that covers commercial delivery. The vehicle must pass a visual inspection — no major dents, broken windows, or mechanical damage. Amazon does not provide insurance; you are responsible for maintaining coverage that includes delivery work.
Before you explore, verify that your insurance policy covers commercial delivery. Many personal auto policies exclude this use. Contact your insurance provider and ask whether your current policy covers delivery work or whether you need a commercial rider. Some insurers offer low-cost commercial add-ons; others require a separate commercial policy. This step takes a few days and can delay your start date if you discover your current policy does not cover delivery.
Acceptable vehicles include sedans, SUVs, hatchbacks, and small trucks. Amazon does not accept motorcycles, scooters, or vehicles with open beds. The vehicle must have four doors and a trunk or cargo area that closes — this is a safety requirement for package storage.
how the process works Through the Amazon Flex App
read the Amazon Flex app on your smartphone and create an account using your email address. You will be asked to provide your full name, date of birth, phone number, and driver's license number. Amazon verifies this information against state records.
Next, you upload a photo of your driver's license (front and back) and a photo of your vehicle's registration. The app also asks you to take a selfie for identity verification. These photos must be clear and legible — blurry or partially cut-off images will be rejected and you will be asked to resubmit.
You then provide your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which Amazon uses to verify the year, make, and model. If your vehicle does not meet the age or type requirements, the app will reject it at this stage. After you submit this information, Amazon runs a background check, which typically takes three to seven business days. You will receive an email notification when the check is complete.
Background Check and Vehicle Inspection
Amazon's background check covers criminal history, driving records, and sex offender registries. The company does not disclose its exact criteria, but serious felonies, recent DUIs, and multiple traffic violations typically result in rejection. You can request the results of your background check through Amazon's support team if you are denied.
After your background check clears, Amazon may schedule a vehicle inspection. In some areas, this is done at an Amazon Flex hub or warehouse; in others, an Amazon representative may inspect your vehicle at a location you choose. The inspection checks that the vehicle matches the registration, has no major damage, and has working locks and a functioning trunk or cargo area. The inspection usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Once your background check passes and your vehicle is inspected and approved, Amazon sends you an email confirming your account is active. You can then log into the app and begin viewing available delivery blocks in your area.
Claiming Delivery Blocks and How Payment Works
Delivery blocks appear in the Amazon Flex app on a rolling basis — typically a few days to a week in advance. Blocks are claimed on a first-come, first-served basis. When a block opens, you tap to claim it; if someone else claims it first, it is gone. Popular time slots (early morning, evening, weekends) fill within seconds.
Each block shows the may provide pay, the pickup location, and the estimated delivery area. A typical block pays between $15 and $25 per hour, though rates vary by location and demand. During peak seasons (holidays, Prime Day), rates often increase. You are paid for the full block duration even if you finish early, but you must complete all deliveries assigned to that block.
Payment is deposited into your bank account every week, usually on Wednesday or Thursday. Amazon deducts a small percentage for processing fees in some regions. You receive a summary of your earnings in the app, but Amazon does not withhold taxes — you are responsible for setting aside money for federal and self-employment taxes.
What to Expect on Your First Delivery Day
On the day of your block, arrive at the pickup location (usually an Amazon Flex hub or Whole Foods store) 10 to 15 minutes early. You will scan packages using the app, load them into your vehicle, and receive a route. The app guides you to each delivery address in order. Most deliveries are left at the front door or with the customer; some require a signature or photo confirmation.
You are responsible for safe driving, following traffic laws, and protecting packages from weather and damage. If a package is damaged or lost, report it in the app when ready. Repeated issues can result in deactivation from the program. Customers can rate your delivery; consistently low ratings may also lead to deactivation.
Bring your phone, a charger, and a way to navigate if your phone's GPS fails. Some areas have poor cell service, so downloading offline maps beforehand is helpful. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes — you will be walking to many doors.
Taxes and Deductions for Independent Contractors
As an Amazon Flex contractor, you are self-employed. You must report your earnings on your federal tax return and pay self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare). Amazon does not withhold taxes or issue a W-2; instead, you receive a 1099-NEC form at the end of the year if you earned more than $600.
You can deduct business expenses, including a portion of your vehicle's fuel, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation. Keep records of your mileage, fuel purchases, and repairs. Many contractors use mileage-tracking apps to log business miles automatically. The IRS allows you to deduct either actual expenses or use the standard mileage rate (which changes yearly). Consult a tax professional to determine which method saves you more money.
Set aside 25 to 30 percent of your earnings for taxes. If you do not pay quarterly estimated taxes and owe a large amount at tax time, you may face penalties. Many contractors open a separate savings account and transfer a percentage of each payment into it to avoid overspending.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved after I explore?
The background check typically takes three to seven business days. Vehicle inspection, if required, can add another few days to a week. Most people are approved and ready to claim their first block within 10 to 14 days of explore, though some areas move faster.
What happens if I don't complete all deliveries in my block?
You must complete all deliveries assigned to your block. If you cannot finish, contact Amazon Flex support when ready. Repeatedly failing to complete blocks can result in deactivation. If you have a genuine emergency, report it as soon as possible.
Can I use someone else's vehicle?
No. The vehicle must be registered in your name, and you must pass the vehicle inspection. Amazon verifies ownership during the process process. Using a vehicle registered to someone else will result in rejection or deactivation.
Do I need a commercial driver's license?
No. A standard driver's license is sufficient. You do not need a CDL unless your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating exceeds 26,000 pounds, which is extremely rare for personal vehicles used in Amazon Flex.
What if my area doesn't have many available blocks?
Block availability varies by location and season. Rural areas and smaller cities may have fewer blocks than major metropolitan areas. During slow periods, you may see only a few blocks per week. Peak seasons (holidays) typically offer more blocks. If your area has very limited availability, you may not earn enough to make the work worthwhile.