Stuck in Purgatory: How I Survived the Endless DoorDash Background Check Wait

Disclosure: Some links, like Spokeo, are from services I’ve used and trust. I may earn a small commission if you use them—at no extra cost to you.

Let me take you on a journey—a journey filled with suspense, frustration, and a dash of humor. It all started when I decided to apply for a job as a DoorDash driver. Little did I know, I was about to embark on the most unexpected adventure of my life: The Great Background Check Wait.

The Application: Easy Peasy

Applying to DoorDash was a breeze. I filled out the form, uploaded my documents, and clicked “Submit” with the confidence of someone who’s never had a parking ticket. (Okay, fine, I’ve had one. But it was years ago!) DoorDash uses third-party services like Checkr, GoodHire, Backgrounds Online, and Bchex for their background checks, so I figured it would be quick. Spoiler alert: It wasn’t.

The Waiting Game

A week went by. Nothing. Two weeks went by. Still nothing. My background check status was stuck on “Pending.” I started to wonder if DoorDash had forgotten about me. Maybe they were too busy delivering burritos to check my background.

I reached out to their support team, hoping for some clarity. Their response? A polite but unhelpful, “We’re still processing your background check. Please be patient.” Patient? I was about to start delivering food on a unicycle just to prove I was serious about this job.

DoorDash background checks typically take 5 to 10 business days, but some drivers get approved in just a few days. Delays can happen if there’s high demand, identity verification issues, or holidays. In my case, it took about a week. You’ll get notified by email or in the app once it’s complete, so keep checking both just in case.

The Plot Twist: Someone Catfished Me

Frustrated, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I’d heard about Spokeo, a website that lets you run your own background check for free. I figured, “Why not? Maybe I’ll find out what’s taking so long.”

What I found was shocking. Someone had catfished me. There were fake accounts, random addresses, and even a social media profile I’d never created. It was like my identity had been hijacked by a wannabe influencer who loved posting cat memes.

The Cleanup: Spokeo to the Rescue

I realized these false accounts might be the reason my DoorDash background check was taking forever. So, I rolled up my sleeves and got to work. Spokeo made it easy to opt out and remove false information. Here’s how I did it:

1. Visit Spokeo's Official website

2. Find Your Profile: Search for your name, email, phone or location on Spokeo.

3. Opt Out: Click on your profile and look for the “Opt Out” option.

4. Submit a Request: Fill out the form to remove your information.

It took a couple of days, but eventually, the false accounts were gone. I felt like a digital Marie Kondo, tidying up my online presence.

The Happy Ending

Two days after cleaning up my Spokeo profile, I got the email I’d been waiting for: “Your DoorDash background check is complete!” I was officially approved to start dashing. I celebrated by ordering DoorDash for myself. (Meta, right?)

What I Learned

1. Background Checks Take Time: DoorDash uses reputable services, but they’re not always fast. Be patient.

2. False Information Happens: If your background check is taking forever, run your own check on Spokeo or a similar site. You might find surprises.

3. You Can Clean Up Your Online Presence: Spokeo’s opt-out feature is a lifesaver. Use it to remove false accounts and outdated info.

How long does DoorDash background check take in 2025?

DoorDash background checks typically take 3-7 business days, but delays can happen. Factors like incomplete information, high application volume, or discrepancies in your record can extend the process. If it’s stuck on “pending,” consider running a self-check on platforms like Spokeo to ensure your info is accurate and up-to-date.

A Little Humor to End On

If you’re stuck in background check limbo, don’t panic. Take a deep breath, grab some snacks (preferably delivered by DoorDash), and remember: even if your background check takes forever, at least you’re not the one who catfished me.

And hey, if all else fails, there’s always the unicycle delivery idea.

Have you ever had a background check drama? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to know I’m not alone!