What Walmart Grocery Delivery Drivers Do and How to Start
Walmart grocery delivery drivers pick up orders from Walmart stores and deliver them to customers' homes. You work as an independent contractor — Walmart doesn't employ you directly, but assigns you deliveries through their app. The job involves loading groceries into your vehicle, driving to customer addresses, and unloading at their door. Most drivers work flexible hours, choosing when and how often they accept deliveries.
To start, you need to pass a background check, have a valid driver's license and vehicle insurance, and meet Walmart's age requirement (usually 18 or older). The process process takes place entirely through Walmart's driver portal or mobile app. Once approved, you read the Walmart driver app, which shows available delivery batches in your area. You accept batches that fit your schedule, complete the deliveries, and Walmart deposits payment into your bank account.
Key Takeaways
- You must have a valid driver's license, current vehicle insurance, and a reliable vehicle to deliver groceries for Walmart.
- Walmart runs a background check that typically takes three to five business days; felonies and certain driving violations may disqualify you.
- The process happens through Walmart's driver portal, where you upload documents and answer questions about your driving history.
- Payment varies by delivery distance and complexity, and Walmart deposits earnings weekly into your linked bank account.
- You are responsible for vehicle maintenance, gas, and insurance — these costs come out of your earnings.
Documents You'll Need Before You explore
Gather these documents before you start the process, because you'll upload them directly in the portal. You need a photo of your valid driver's license (front and back), proof of vehicle insurance that covers commercial delivery (check your policy — some personal policies exclude delivery work), and your Social Security number or tax ID. Have your bank account information ready too, since Walmart deposits payment directly to your account.
If you've had traffic violations or accidents in the past five to seven years, have those details available. Walmart asks about your driving history during the process, and lying about it can result in rejection after the background check reveals the truth. Some violations disqualify you outright — DUIs, reckless driving, and multiple at-fault accidents are common reasons for rejection. If you're unsure whether your record will pass, contact Walmart's driver support before explore; they can give you a straight answer.
The process Process Step by Step
Start by visiting Walmart's careers page or downloading the Walmart driver app. Look for "Delivery Driver" or "Grocery Delivery" positions in your area — not all markets have Walmart delivery yet, so you may see no openings. If positions are available, click to begin the process. You'll enter your name, phone number, email, and address, then create a login for the driver portal.
Next, you upload your driver's license (both sides), proof of insurance, and a photo of yourself. Walmart's system checks that your license is valid and matches your process. You then answer questions about your driving history, including accidents, tickets, and violations. Be honest here — the background check will verify everything. After you submit, Walmart sends a confirmation email with your process number.
The background check typically takes three to five business days. During this time, Walmart verifies your license, runs a motor vehicle record check, and screens for criminal history. You'll receive an email when the check is complete. If you pass, you get access to the driver app and can start accepting deliveries. If you don't pass, the email explains the reason — usually a specific violation or criminal record issue.
Background Check and Approval Timeline
Walmart uses third-party background screening companies to verify your information. The motor vehicle record check pulls your driving history from your state's DMV, so any accidents, tickets, or suspensions show up here. The criminal background check screens for felonies and certain misdemeanors. The entire process usually takes three to five business days, though it can stretch to a week during high-volume periods.
Once approved, you don't need to reapply unless you move to a different state or Walmart asks you to update information. Your approval stays active as long as you maintain a valid license and insurance. If your license expires or you get a major violation, Walmart may deactivate your account until you provide updated documents.
How Payment Works and What It Costs You
Walmart pays per delivery, not per hour. The amount depends on the delivery distance, number of items, and whether it's a single order or a batch of multiple orders going to nearby addresses. Typical pay ranges from $5 to $15 per delivery, though this varies significantly by location and order complexity. Walmart deposits your earnings weekly into your bank account on a set day (usually Thursday or Friday).
Remember that you cover all your own costs: gas, vehicle maintenance, insurance, and phone data. Your vehicle insurance must cover commercial delivery — standard personal auto policies often exclude this work. Check with your insurance company before you start; adding commercial coverage usually costs $10 to $30 per month. Gas and maintenance come directly out of your earnings, so track these expenses if you file taxes as a self-employed driver. Many drivers find that after expenses, their effective hourly rate is lower than the per-delivery amount suggests.
What Disqualifies You From Becoming a Walmart Delivery Driver
Walmart automatically rejects applications for certain violations. A DUI or DWI within the past seven years is a hard stop. Multiple at-fault accidents (usually three or more in five years) or a suspended or revoked license will disqualify you. Reckless driving convictions and hit-and-run charges are also automatic rejections. Felony convictions may disqualify you depending on the type and how long ago they occurred — violent crimes and theft-related felonies are typically permanent bars.
You also need a valid driver's license and proof of insurance. If your license is suspended, expired, or restricted, you can't drive for Walmart until it's restored or renewed. If your insurance lapses or doesn't cover commercial delivery, you won't pass the verification step. Some applicants are rejected straightforward because Walmart has no delivery openings in their area — this isn't a disqualification, just a lack of available positions.
Getting Started After Approval
Once you're approved, read the Walmart driver app if you haven't already. Log in with the credentials you created during the process. The app shows available delivery batches in your area, listed by pickup time, delivery distance, and estimated pay. You can see the number of stops and items before you accept, so you can choose batches that fit your vehicle and schedule.
Accept a batch, drive to the assigned Walmart store at the pickup time, load the groceries, and follow the app's navigation to each delivery address. At each stop, take a photo of the delivered groceries (or the customer if they prefer) to confirm completion. The app tracks your deliveries and automatically processes payment. Most drivers start with one or two batches to get comfortable with the process, then increase their volume as they learn the system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the background check take?
The background check typically takes three to five business days from the time you submit your process. Walmart sends an email when it's complete, telling you whether you've been approved or rejected. During busy periods, it may take up to a week.
Can I use someone else's vehicle to deliver for Walmart?
No. The vehicle must be registered to you or someone on your insurance policy, and your insurance must cover you as the driver. Walmart verifies the vehicle information during the background check process.
What if I get rejected — can I reapply?
Yes, you can reapply after a waiting period. If you were rejected for a driving violation, wait until that violation ages off your record (usually five to seven years). If rejected for another reason, contact Walmart driver support to ask when you're may be able to access to reapply.
Do I need a commercial driver's license?
No. A standard passenger vehicle driver's license is sufficient. You do not need a CDL unless your vehicle exceeds a certain weight limit, which is rare for grocery delivery.
What happens if I have an accident while delivering?
Report it to your insurance company when ready and to Walmart through the driver app. Walmart may deactivate your account while they investigate, depending on the severity. Major accidents or at-fault collisions can result in permanent deactivation.