DoorDash is one of the most popular ways to make money on your own schedule. Whether you’re dashing full-time or picking up a few hours between jobs, the flexibility is hard to beat. But now there’s a new question drivers have to answer: Should you get paid hourly or stick with per-order payouts?
DoorDash’s Earn by Time model offers more stable, predictable pay. On the other hand, the traditional Earn by Order setup still gives drivers the chance to earn more, especially if they know their market well and stay strategic with their deliveries.
So, how does hourly pay work on DoorDash? And more importantly, which option actually works better for you?
In this guide, we’ll explain how both pay models work, compare the pros and cons, and help you decide what fits your driving style. And if you're ever between payouts or hit a slow week, some Dashers explore options like a cash advance for gig workers to help bridge the gap.
Understanding DoorDash’s Pay Models
DoorDash now gives drivers two ways to earn: Earn by Time and Earn by Order. Each comes with pros and cons, depending on how you like to work and what your local demand looks like.
Here's how both models work, and how to figure out which suits you best.
Earn By Time
This newer option guarantees an hourly rate for your active delivery time—the minutes you're actually driving to or from a restaurant, not just waiting between offers. Like with per-order pay, you also keep 100% of your tips.
How it works and who it’s for
To use Earn by Time, you need to opt in before each dash. Once you're in, DoorDash matches you with orders, and you get paid based on how long you're actively completing them. It’s not available everywhere yet, and you’ll usually need a solid completion rate to qualify.
This model tends to work well for new Dashers, or those in slower areas where good orders can be few and far between. And if you’re ever stuck between paychecks, having access to a quick $1,000 or $2,000 cash advance can help smooth out your income while figuring out the best strategy.
Earn By Order
This is the original and most common pay model. You earn money for each delivery you complete. Your total pay includes base pay, any bonuses during busy times (called peak pay), and tips. You can choose which orders to accept or decline, giving you more control over your schedule, but your income can vary greatly from hour to hour.
Some dashers ask, “Why does DoorDash pay so low?” It’s often not just about base pay—it’s the inconsistency. Without peak bonuses or high tips, the total can feel underwhelming, especially in slower zones. This unpredictability is why many Dashers carefully track busy hours and learn how to make the most of every shift.
When it makes sense
If you know your market, understand which neighborhoods tip well, and can spot good orders quickly, Earn by Order can be more profitable. It’s beneficial during peak times or in busy areas where high-paying deliveries come back-to-back.
How Does Hourly Pay Work on DoorDash?
DoorDash’s “Earn by Time” model gives you a guaranteed hourly rate—but it only applies to your active delivery time, not the whole time you’re on the app. Here’s what that actually means in practice.
What Is the Guaranteed Hourly Rate?
The rate you see (like $14.50/hour) is only for the minutes you’re actively completing deliveries. If you’re waiting around between orders, that time doesn’t count toward your Doordash hourly pay.
When Does “Active Time” Start and Stop?
Active time begins as soon as you accept an order and ends when the delivery is complete. So, if you’re online for three hours but only actively delivering for one, you’re only paid for that one hour, plus tips.
Does DoorDash Pay Hourly If You Don’t Get Orders?
Not really. If you’re not actively working on an order, you’re not earning hourly pay. That’s why the Earn by Time model works best in busier markets or during peak hours.
For a full breakdown of the requirements and availability, check out DoorDash’s official Earn by Time guide.
If slower shifts make budgeting unpredictable, some Dashers use tools like this cash advance for gig workers to stay financially steady between payouts.
Need a quick cash boost between dashes?
Get fast, flexible funds with Giggle Finance—perfect for gig workers who need a little breathing room. Learn how to get a quick $1,000 loan.
Which DoorDash Pay Option Fits Your Strategy?
Not sure which model works best for how you dash? Here’s a quick guide based on your experience, market, and goals.
Go Hourly If…
You’re dashing during slow times or exploring new areas. Earn by Time gives you a guaranteed hourly rate for active delivery time, even if orders are sparse. This helps reduce uncertainty when demand is low or routes are unfamiliar.
Hourly pay is also a good option if you prefer predictable income and less guesswork. You’ll still keep 100% of your tips and won’t have to worry about gaps between orders affecting your overall pay.
If you hit a slow patch and need extra support between shifts, some Dashers explore short-term help like a $5,000 Giggle Finance advance.
Go Per Order If…
You know your market well and can spot high-paying gigs. Earn by Order offers more flexibility and higher earning potential, especially during peak hours like lunch and dinner. With base pay, tips, and occasional bonuses, your total can add up quickly if you plan your schedule right.
This model is ideal for experienced Dashers who want full control over their deliveries and know how to maximize busy periods.
Tips to Maximize Your Earnings as a Dasher
Want to make the most of every dash? Whether you’re part-time or full-time, here are a few smart habits that can help boost your bottom line.
Know Your Hot Zones and Times
Not all hours (or areas) are created equal. Lunch, dinner, and weekend nights are usually the busiest. Use the DoorDash heatmap and track which zones bring in the most action. Knowing when and where to dash saves time and increases your chances of getting back-to-back orders.
Use Multi-Apps
Don’t limit yourself to just one app. Many Dashers also use Uber Eats, Instacart, or Grubhub. This strategy, called “multi-apping”. This helps you stay busy and reduce downtime between deliveries. Just make sure you manage it safely and don’t overbook your time.
Track Expenses and Mileage
Gas, phone data, wear and tear—they all add up. Use an app or spreadsheet to track every mile and dollar. Tools like Stride, Everlance, and MileIQ are popular with gig workers because they automatically log mileage, track expenses, and organize tax deductions. These records will help you maximize deductions at tax time and stay profitable in the long run.
Set Daily or Weekly Earnings Goals
Having a clear goal gives you direction. Whether it’s $100 a day or $500 a week, knowing your target can help you plan smarter routes and avoid burnout. And if you ever need help reaching those goals, a $10,000 advance from Giggle Finance could offer quick, flexible support when you need it most.
Final Thoughts: Which DoorDash Pay Model Works for You?
Both Earn by Time and Earn by Order come with their own advantages—it really depends on how you prefer to work. If you’re dashing during slow hours or exploring new areas, hourly pay can offer a more predictable income. It’s a reliable way to keep earnings steady, even when order volume is low.
On the other hand, if you know your market well and can make the most of peak hours, the per-order model could lead to higher pay. It rewards experience, timing, and efficiency with extra bonuses and tip potential.
In the end, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some Dashers switch between the two depending on the day or area. The key is knowing your goals and picking the DoorDash pay model that works best for you.
If you’re looking to bridge income gaps between dashes, get fast access to funds with Giggle Finance. Apply here.
Disclaimer: Giggle Finance provides Revenue-Based Financing programs for business purposes only. Any mention of any loan product(s), consumer product(s), or other forms of financing is solely for marketing and educational content purposes and to help distinguish Giggle’s product from other comparable financing options available in the market.