Everything you need to know about getting hired with Amazon Flex - from application to your first delivery block
The Amazon Flex hiring process in 2025 has been streamlined to get drivers on the road faster while maintaining safety standards. The entire process typically takes 3-7 days from application to first delivery, though this can vary based on your location and background check results.
Amazon Flex's hiring process is a multi-step verification system designed to ensure drivers meet safety, legal, and operational requirements. Unlike traditional employment, Amazon Flex drivers are independent contractors, which means the "hiring" process is technically an onboarding and approval process for using the platform.
The first step in the Amazon Flex hiring process is downloading the official Amazon Flex app. This app is your gateway to becoming a delivery partner and will be your primary tool for managing deliveries once approved.
Pro Tip:
Apply early in the week (Monday-Wednesday) for faster processing. Weekend applications may experience delays.
After downloading the app, you'll need to create your Amazon Flex driver account. This involves providing personal information that Amazon will use for identity verification and payment processing.
As an independent contractor, you'll need to complete tax forms:
Important Note:
Amazon Flex drivers are 1099 contractors, not W-2 employees. You're responsible for your own taxes, including self-employment tax.
The document verification stage is crucial in the Amazon Flex hiring process. You'll need to upload clear photos of several documents directly through the app. Poor quality photos are the #1 reason for delays.
Common Rejection Reasons:
The background check is a critical component of the Amazon Flex hiring process. Amazon partners with Accurate Background (formerly Checkr) to conduct comprehensive screenings of all applicants. This typically takes 2-5 business days but can take up to 7 days in some cases.
What to Expect:
Once your background check clears, you'll enter the final phase of the Amazon Flex hiring process: onboarding. This includes watching training videos, learning the app, and activating your account for deliveries.
After completing onboarding, you can immediately start looking for delivery blocks. Here's what to expect:
In many cities, Amazon Flex has more applicants than available delivery opportunities. When this happens, approved drivers are placed on a waitlist. Understanding the waitlist system is crucial for managing expectations during the hiring process.
Waitlist Reality Check:
Being on the waitlist doesn't guarantee eventual activation. Some drivers wait 6+ months or never get activated in oversaturated markets. Have backup income plans while waiting.
Typos or mismatches cause automatic delays
Poor image quality is the #1 reason for rejection
Amazon gives 48-hour windows for additional info
Uninstalling can reset your application
Download app, create account, initial application
Time: 15-30 minutes
Submit license, insurance, registration photos
Time: 10-15 minutes
Amazon reviews submitted documents
Status: "Documents under review"
Criminal and driving record screening
Status: "Background check in progress"
Final review and approval/denial/waitlist
Email notification sent
Watch videos, complete quiz, activate account
Time: 45-60 minutes
Start accepting and completing delivery blocks
Earnings: $18-25/hour average
The typical Amazon Flex hiring process takes 3-7 days from application to approval. However, this can extend to 2-3 weeks if there are document issues or background check delays. In cities with waitlists, it may take several months to get activated.
Common disqualifiers include: DUI/DWI in the past 7 years, reckless driving in the past 3 years, more than 3 moving violations in 3 years, violent crime convictions, theft convictions, sexual offenses, and current license suspension. Drug-related convictions may also disqualify depending on state laws.
For most Amazon Flex delivery types, you need a 4-door vehicle (sedan, SUV, or van). However, 2-door cars are acceptable for Amazon.com instant offers only. You cannot deliver regular routes or Whole Foods orders with a 2-door vehicle.
No, commercial insurance is not required. Personal auto insurance that meets your state's minimum requirements is sufficient. However, Amazon provides additional liability coverage while you're actively delivering, but you should inform your insurance company that you're doing delivery work.
After your background check clears, you'll receive an email stating either "You're approved and ready to deliver" or "You've been added to our waitlist." The app will show "Waitlisted" status. You'll receive an email when a spot opens up in your area.
It depends on the rejection reason. If rejected for fixable issues (expired documents, poor photo quality), you can reapply immediately after resolving the issue. For background check failures, you typically must wait 1 year. For falsifying information, the ban is permanent.
After completing onboarding, your account becomes active for scheduling delivery blocks. You'll see available blocks in the app's "Offers" section. You can immediately start accepting blocks, though your first few may be "nursery routes" that are shorter and easier to help you learn.
Yes, Amazon Flex accepts applications year-round, but hiring varies by location and demand. Peak hiring occurs before holiday seasons (October-December) and during Prime Day events. Summer months typically see increased hiring for vacation coverage.
Yes, Amazon Flex drivers are independent contractors and can work for multiple delivery platforms simultaneously. Many drivers combine Flex with DoorDash, Uber, Instacart, or other gig apps. Just ensure you're not double-booked for overlapping delivery times.
Amazon Flex drivers are independent contractors using personal vehicles, with a simpler 3-7 day hiring process. DSP (Delivery Service Partner) drivers are employees of third-party companies, drive Amazon-branded vans, work fixed schedules, and undergo a more traditional 2-3 week hiring process with interviews and training.
Now that you understand the complete Amazon Flex hiring process for 2025, you're ready to apply. Remember, the key to fast approval is having all documents ready and providing accurate information.