You can start driving for Spark in about one to two weeks from process to first delivery

The timeline depends on how quickly you submit your documents and pass the background check. Most drivers complete the process in 15 to 30 minutes, but Walmart's background screening takes five to ten business days. If you're approved, you can start accepting deliveries when ready—there's no waiting period or training requirement after clearance.

The real variable is you. If your documents are incomplete or your background check gets flagged for review, the process stalls. Drivers who gather everything upfront and submit clean applications typically see approval within a week. Those who resubmit documents or wait to provide information can stretch it to three weeks or longer.

Key Takeaways

  • The process itself takes 15 to 30 minutes, but Walmart's background check adds five to ten business days before you're approved.
  • You need a valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and a vehicle registered in your name—missing any of these delays approval.
  • Once approved, you can start accepting deliveries the same day; there is no onboarding period or training module to complete.
  • If your background check is flagged or documents are rejected, the timeline extends by several days while you provide clarification or resubmit.

What you need to have ready before you explore

Gather these documents before you start the process. Spark requires a valid driver's license, proof of vehicle insurance, and vehicle registration—all in your name. You'll also need your Social Security number and a bank account for direct deposit. Have photos of your license and insurance card ready; you'll upload them during signup.

Your vehicle must be at least 20 model years old (so a 2004 or newer for 2024) and pass a vehicle inspection. You can schedule this inspection through Spark's app after you're approved, but some drivers do it beforehand to avoid delays. The inspection is free and takes about 15 minutes at a participating location.

If any of your documents have changed recently—a new address, a new insurance policy, or a vehicle transfer—make sure the name and address match across all of them. Mismatches trigger manual review and add days to approval.

The background check is where most of the wait happens

Walmart runs a third-party background check through a screening company, and this step alone takes five to ten business days. The check looks at your driving record, criminal history, and sex offender registry. You don't do anything during this time except wait—Spark will email you when it's complete.

Most drivers pass without issue. If the check flags something—an old conviction, a traffic violation, or a name discrepancy—Walmart may request clarification or additional documents. This review adds another five to seven business days. If you have questions about your driving record or history, contact Walmart's support team before explore; they can tell you whether something will likely disqualify you.

The background check is non-negotiable and cannot be expedited. Starting the process early gives you the most time to resolve any issues that come up.

Vehicle inspection happens after approval, not before

Once your background check clears, Spark sends you a link to schedule your vehicle inspection. This is a free inspection at a Walmart Service Center or a third-party location Spark partners with. You drive there, a technician checks your vehicle's lights, brakes, tires, and windshield, and you're done in 15 minutes.

You can schedule the inspection for the same day you're approved or wait a few days—there's no rush. The inspection must be completed before you can accept your first delivery, but you can book it while you're waiting for other approvals to finalize.

If your vehicle fails inspection, you'll need to fix the issue and reschedule. Common failures are worn tires, broken lights, or expired registration. Most repairs take a few days, so budget time for that if your vehicle needs work.

You can start accepting deliveries the moment you're fully approved

Approval means your background check passed, your documents were verified, and your vehicle inspection is complete. At that point, Spark activates your account and you can open the app and start accepting delivery offers. There's no training module, no orientation call, and no waiting period. You're live when ready.

Your first few deliveries may be limited in number or distance while Spark's system learns your performance, but you're earning from day one. Read the app's delivery instructions carefully on your first few trips—Spark's process is straightforward, but each delivery platform has its own quirks.

Reasons approval gets delayed and how to avoid them

Incomplete documents are the most common cause of delay. If you upload a blurry photo of your license or insurance card, Spark will reject it and ask you to resubmit. Take clear, well-lit photos with all four corners visible and text readable. Test your photos on your phone before uploading.

Mismatched information also triggers manual review. If your insurance card shows a different address than your license, or your vehicle registration is in a different name, Spark flags it for verification. Update your documents before explore if you've moved recently or if your vehicle is registered to a spouse or family member.

A driving record with violations or accidents doesn't automatically disqualify you, but it may require review. Walmart's standards vary, and older violations are weighted less heavily than recent ones. If you have concerns, reach out to Spark support before explore—they can give you a straight answer about whether you'll likely be approved.

What to do if your approval is taking longer than expected

If more than ten business days have passed since you submitted your process and you haven't heard back, contact Spark support through the app. Have your process date and any confirmation emails ready. Support can check the status of your background check and tell you if documents are missing or flagged for review.

If documents were rejected, resubmit them when ready with better photos or corrected information. If your background check is under manual review, ask support what information they need from you to move it forward. Providing that information quickly is the only way to speed up the process.

Don't reapply if your first process is still pending—that creates confusion and can actually slow things down. Stick with your original process and work with support to resolve any issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start driving before my vehicle inspection is done?

No. You need a completed vehicle inspection before you can accept your first delivery. However, you can schedule the inspection as soon as your background check clears, so the inspection doesn't have to delay you further. Most drivers schedule it within a day or two of approval.

What happens if I fail the background check?

Walmart will email you with the reason. Depending on what triggered the failure, you may be able to appeal or provide additional context. Contact Spark support when ready if you're denied—they can explain the specific issue and whether there's a path to reapplication.

Do I need to wait for approval before I buy insurance or register my vehicle?

No. Have your vehicle registered and insured in your name before you explore. You'll need proof of both during signup, so waiting until after approval just delays your process. Make sure your insurance policy covers commercial delivery driving, as personal policies sometimes don't.

Can I use a vehicle registered to someone else?

No. Spark requires the vehicle to be registered in your name. If you're using a family member's car, you'll need to transfer the registration to yourself first. This takes a few days at your local DMV.

How long does the vehicle inspection actually take?

The inspection itself takes about 15 minutes. Travel time to the inspection location depends on where you live and which location you book. Schedule it at a time that works for you—there's no rush once you're approved.