13 Best Driving Apps to Make Money (Flexible & Great Pay)

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The gig economy has exploded in recent years, with more people seeking flexible ways to earn money. Driving apps are a popular option for those looking for side hustles or even full-time income streams. The ability to work on your schedule, along with the potential for great pay, makes driving apps an attractive option. Whether you’re delivering food, groceries, or people, there are plenty of apps to choose from. Here are 13 of the best driving apps that can help you make money while providing flexibility and competitive pay.

Uber

Uber is arguably the most popular rideshare app globally, offering flexible hours and competitive pay. As an Uber driver, you can set your availability, making it ideal for those who need to work around other commitments. Uber provides both a part-time and full-time income stream, with earnings varying based on location, peak hours, and demand. With additional opportunities like Uber Eats delivery, Uber drivers can diversify their income streams.

Lyft

Lyft is another well-known ridesharing service that competes with Uber. Similar to Uber, Lyft allows drivers to set their schedules and earn money by driving passengers. Lyft is known for its supportive driver community and offers bonuses and incentives, such as “Power Zones” and “Peak Ride Bonuses,” that boost earnings during high-demand periods. The app is user-friendly and provides transparent earnings tracking.

DoorDash

If food delivery is more your style, DoorDash is one of the top platforms for earning money by delivering meals. DoorDash drivers, known as Dashers, can choose when and where to work. The platform offers a flexible schedule, and drivers keep 100% of the tips they earn. DoorDash also provides “Peak Pay” bonuses during busy times, giving drivers the opportunity to earn extra cash.

Instacart

Instacart is a popular grocery delivery app that allows drivers to earn money by shopping for and delivering groceries to customers. You can work as a full-service shopper (shopping and delivering orders) or an in-store shopper (just shopping for orders). Instacart offers flexibility, and drivers can often earn more through tips. If you enjoy grocery shopping and driving, this app can be an excellent way to make money.

Postmates

Postmates is a delivery app that goes beyond food and groceries. As a Postmates driver, you can deliver anything from restaurant orders to household goods. Postmates offers a high level of flexibility, allowing drivers to work whenever they want. The pay structure includes a base rate, mileage, time spent waiting, and tips. With the wide range of delivery options, Postmates drivers can stay busy and maximize earnings.

Shipt

Shipt is a membership-based grocery delivery service similar to Instacart. Shipt shoppers can choose their hours, accept orders, and shop for groceries before delivering them to customers’ homes. The flexibility makes it easy to work around other commitments. Shipt also offers tips on top of base pay, allowing shoppers to boost their earnings. Drivers who provide excellent service and build relationships with customers can earn a consistent income.

Amazon Flex

Amazon Flex allows drivers to deliver packages for Amazon using their own vehicles. The app offers flexible blocks of time, usually lasting around three to six hours, where drivers pick up and deliver packages. The pay is competitive, and drivers can earn more during peak delivery periods, such as holidays. Amazon Flex drivers also have the opportunity to deliver for Amazon Prime, Amazon Fresh, and Amazon Restaurants.

Grubhub

Grubhub is another food delivery service that allows drivers to earn money delivering meals from local restaurants. Grubhub drivers, or Grubhubbers, enjoy flexible scheduling and can work when it suits them. The app provides a straightforward interface, and drivers can earn additional income through tips. Grubhub also offers incentives like “Driver Recognition Program” and “Missions” to boost earnings during high-demand times.

GoPuff

GoPuff is a delivery service that specializes in snacks, drinks, household essentials, and over-the-counter medications. Unlike other delivery apps, GoPuff has centralized warehouses, so drivers only pick up items from one location, making the delivery process quicker and more efficient. GoPuff offers guaranteed hourly pay and allows drivers to earn tips, making it an attractive option for those seeking consistent income.

Turo

Turo is a car-sharing platform that allows you to rent out your vehicle to others. If you don’t want to drive for money but still want to earn from your vehicle, Turo is an excellent option. You can list your car on the platform, set your availability and rates, and earn money when people rent your vehicle. Turo provides insurance coverage and has a reputation for being a safe and reliable platform for both car owners and renters.

Getaround

Similar to Turo, Getaround is another car-sharing app where you can rent out your vehicle. It offers flexibility, as you can list your car whenever it’s not in use and earn passive income. Getaround provides insurance for every rental, giving peace of mind to car owners. The platform is user-friendly, and you can set your prices based on demand in your area. If you own a car that you don’t use frequently, Getaround can help you make money without having to drive.

Via

Via is a rideshare app that focuses on shared rides. Unlike Uber and Lyft, which primarily offer private rides, Via groups riders traveling in the same direction to maximize efficiency. Drivers pick up multiple passengers heading in similar directions, making the trips shorter and more profitable. Via offers competitive pay, and its model allows drivers to make more per hour due to the shared nature of the rides. This app is a good option if you prefer shorter trips with multiple passengers.

Curb

Curb is an app that connects passengers with professional taxi drivers. If you have a taxi license, you can use Curb to find passengers and increase your earnings. The app is designed to make the taxi service more efficient by helping drivers find nearby passengers who need a ride. Curb is available in major cities, and drivers benefit from flexible schedules while maintaining traditional taxi fares. With Curb, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the flexibility of rideshare apps and the stability of traditional taxi driving.

Maximizing Your Earnings with Driving Apps

While these apps offer flexibility and good pay, maximizing your earnings requires strategy. Here are a few tips to help you boost your income:

Take advantage of peak hours: Most apps offer higher pay during peak times when demand is higher, such as during rush hours, weekends, or holidays. Plan your schedule around these times to increase your earnings.
Track expenses: Driving comes with expenses like gas, vehicle maintenance, and insurance. Keep track of these costs and take advantage of tax deductions to reduce your overall expenses and increase your net income.
Provide excellent customer service: Whether you’re delivering food, groceries, or people, providing excellent customer service can lead to higher tips and better ratings. This can also increase your chances of receiving bonuses and incentives.
Use multiple apps: If one app is slow, consider working for multiple apps to maximize your opportunities. Many drivers use a combination of rideshare and delivery apps to ensure consistent earnings throughout the day.
Stay safe: Safety is a top priority for any driving gig. Make sure your vehicle is well-maintained, follow traffic laws, and always be aware of your surroundings. Additionally, some apps offer safety features like emergency assistance, which can give drivers peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Driving apps offer flexible ways to earn money, whether you're looking for a side hustle or a full-time income. With options ranging from food delivery to ridesharing and package delivery, there’s something for everyone. By choosing the right app for your preferences and using smart strategies, you can maximize your earnings and enjoy the freedom of working on your own terms. Explore these 13 driving apps to find the one that fits your lifestyle and start earning money on the go.

FAQ:

1. What are the best driving apps to make money? The top driving apps include Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, Instacart, Postmates, Shipt, Amazon Flex, Grubhub, GoPuff, Turo, Getaround, Via, and Curb. Each app offers unique opportunities and flexible schedules for drivers.

2. How much can I earn with driving apps? Earnings vary based on the app, location, and demand. For instance, Uber and Lyft drivers can earn significant amounts during peak hours, while DoorDash and Grubhub drivers benefit from tips on top of base pay. Amazon Flex and GoPuff also offer competitive rates, with potential earnings increasing during busy times.

3. Are driving apps flexible? Yes, driving apps offer flexibility, allowing you to choose your own hours and work as much or as little as you want. This makes them ideal for side hustles or as a full-time job, depending on your needs.

4. Do I need special equipment or a specific type of vehicle to drive for these apps? Most driving apps require a reliable vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and insurance. Some apps, like Turo and Getaround, allow you to rent out your vehicle without needing to drive it. For ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft, your car must meet their specific requirements.

5. Can I drive for multiple apps at once? Yes, many drivers use multiple apps simultaneously to maximize their earnings. This can help ensure a steady stream of work and increase overall income.

6. Are there any costs associated with driving for these apps? Yes, drivers are responsible for expenses such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, and insurance. It’s important to track these costs and consider tax deductions to manage your expenses effectively.

7. How do tips work with driving apps? Tips are an important part of driver earnings for most delivery and rideshare apps. Drivers typically keep 100% of the tips given by customers. Apps like DoorDash, Grubhub, and Instacart emphasize tips as part of their pay structure.

8. What safety measures are in place for drivers? Safety measures vary by app but may include features like emergency assistance, driver background checks, and insurance coverage. It’s also crucial for drivers to maintain their own vehicle, follow traffic laws, and stay aware of their surroundings.

9. How do I get started with a driving app? To get started, download the app of your choice, complete the registration process, and meet the app’s requirements. This typically involves a background check, vehicle inspection (if applicable), and providing necessary documentation.

10. Can I make a full-time income with driving apps? Yes, many drivers use these apps as a primary source of income. Earnings can be substantial, especially if you work during peak times and use multiple apps. However, income levels can vary based on location, demand, and personal effort.

11. Are there any bonuses or incentives offered by driving apps? Many apps offer bonuses and incentives, such as peak hour pay, mission bonuses, or performance-based rewards. Check the specific app’s promotions and incentives to maximize your earnings.

12. What should I consider when choosing a driving app? Consider factors such as your vehicle’s suitability, the app’s pay structure, flexibility, and the types of deliveries or rides offered. Choose an app that aligns with your preferences and goals.

13. Can I use driving apps as a side hustle? Absolutely. Many people use driving apps as a side hustle to supplement their income. The flexible nature of these apps allows you to work around other commitments or jobs.