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How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for Instacart?

The million-dollar question for aspiring Instacart shoppers! The Instacart approval process can be surprisingly swift, or it can feel like an eternity. Generally, you can expect the entire application and approval process to take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of weeks. However, various factors can significantly impact this timeline.

Understanding the Instacart Approval Process

The Instacart onboarding journey isn’t complex, but several stages need to be completed before you can start accepting orders and earning money. Let’s break down each step and its potential impact on your approval time.

Initial Application Submission

This is the first hurdle. You’ll need to visit the Instacart Shopper website or app and fill out the application form. Be prepared to provide:

Basic personal information: Name, address, phone number, email.
Vehicle information: Year, make, model. Even if you plan to shop in-store only (without delivery), this may be required.
Driver’s license information: License number, expiration date.
Social Security number: For background check purposes.

Key Time Factor: This stage is quick – usually taking just 15-30 minutes to complete. Accuracy is key here. Errors can lead to delays later.

Background Check

This is where things can get unpredictable. Instacart uses a third-party service (typically Checkr) to conduct background checks. They’re looking for any red flags that might disqualify you, such as:

Criminal history: Particularly violent crimes, theft, or driving-related offenses.
Driving record: Significant moving violations or a suspended license.

Key Time Factor: This is the biggest variable. A clean background check can be completed in as little as 24 hours. However, if there are any issues that need further investigation, it can take up to a week or even longer. Delays can occur due to court record availability, data entry errors, or simply high demand on the background check service.

Orientation and Training

Once your background check clears, you’ll usually be required to complete an online orientation. This covers the basics of being an Instacart shopper: how to use the app, best practices for customer service, and safety guidelines.

Key Time Factor: The orientation itself is relatively short, typically taking 1-2 hours to complete. It’s often self-paced, allowing you to fit it into your schedule. The delay at this stage usually comes from waiting for an invitation to attend this, which can take up to 2-3 days.

Setting Up Your Payment Information

Before you can receive earnings, you’ll need to link your bank account to your Instacart shopper account. This is usually a straightforward process, but make sure you double-check the account details to avoid any future payment issues.

Key Time Factor: Linking your bank account is usually instant or takes up to 24 hours for verification.

Account Activation

Congratulations, you’ve made it to the final stage! Once you’ve completed all the above steps, your account should be activated, and you can start accepting batches.

Key Time Factor: Account activation is usually immediate after successful completion of the previous steps. However, allow for up to 24 hours in case of technical glitches.

Factors Influencing Approval Time

Several factors can influence how quickly you get approved for Instacart:

Market Demand: In areas with a high demand for Instacart shoppers, the approval process might be slightly faster. Conversely, if there are already plenty of shoppers, it could take longer.
Background Check Complexity: As mentioned earlier, a clear background check speeds up the process significantly.
Application Accuracy: Errors or inconsistencies in your application can lead to delays as Instacart tries to verify the information.
Technical Issues: While rare, technical glitches can sometimes cause delays in the application process.
Holidays and Weekends: The background check process might slow down during holidays and weekends when government offices and courts are closed.

Pro Tips for a Faster Approval

Want to expedite the Instacart approval process? Here are a few tips:

Double-Check Your Application: Ensure all the information you provide is accurate and consistent.
Be Patient: While it’s understandable to be eager to start shopping, bombarding Instacart support with inquiries won’t necessarily speed things up.
Keep an Eye on Your Email: Instacart will communicate with you via email throughout the application process, so check your inbox (and spam folder) regularly.
Meet the Requirements: Ensure you meet all the basic requirements, such as being at least 18 years old and having a valid driver’s license (if required in your area).

FAQs About Instacart Approval

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the Instacart approval process:

1. Can I expedite my Instacart application?

Unfortunately, there’s no official way to expedite the Instacart application process. The best you can do is ensure your application is accurate and complete, and be patient while the background check is being conducted. Contacting support frequently will not accelerate the process.

2. What disqualifies you from Instacart?

Several factors can disqualify you from becoming an Instacart shopper, including a criminal record, a poor driving record, failing the background check, or providing inaccurate information on your application. Minimum age is also a factor, and it can be 21 in certain states.

3. What if my background check takes longer than expected?

If your background check is taking longer than a week, you can contact Checkr (the background check company) directly to inquire about the status. They may be able to provide more information about any potential delays.

4. How do I check the status of my Instacart application?

You can usually check the status of your Instacart application through the Instacart Shopper app or website. You may also receive email updates from Instacart. If you don’t see any updates, you can try contacting Instacart support.

5. Can I appeal a denied Instacart application?

Yes, you usually have the option to appeal a denied Instacart application. The denial notice will typically include instructions on how to submit an appeal. Ensure to gather any supporting documentation that may help your case.

6. Do I need a car to become an Instacart shopper?

Whether you need a car depends on the type of Instacart shopper you want to be. Full-service shoppers, who shop for and deliver orders, require a vehicle. In-store shoppers, who only shop for orders within the store, do not need a car.

7. How long is the Instacart orientation?

The Instacart orientation is typically a self-paced online training that takes around 1-2 hours to complete.

8. What happens after I complete the Instacart orientation?

After completing the Instacart orientation, you’ll usually be prompted to set up your payment information. Once that’s done, your account should be activated, and you can start accepting batches.

9. Can I shop for Instacart in multiple cities?

Generally, you can shop for Instacart in any zone within your approved region. You may need to contact Instacart support to switch your primary zone.

10. How often does Instacart pay shoppers?

Instacart typically pays shoppers weekly via direct deposit. You can also opt for instant cashout for a small fee.

11. What are the peak hours for Instacart?

Peak hours for Instacart are typically weekends and weekday evenings, when more people are placing orders.

12. How do I get more batches on Instacart?

To get more batches on Instacart, maintain a high rating, provide excellent customer service, and be available during peak hours. Also, ensure your app is updated to the latest version.

Navigating the Instacart approval process requires patience and attention to detail. By understanding the steps involved, being proactive with your application, and addressing any potential issues promptly, you can increase your chances of a smooth and speedy approval, allowing you to start earning money as an Instacart shopper as quickly as possible. Good luck!