Does Grubhub Drug Test?
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Grubhub does not drug test delivery drivers (delivery partners). Drivers are independent contractors and are not subject to pre-employment drug testing. Grubhub relies on background checks instead of drug screening.
Grubhub does not drug test its delivery drivers (called delivery partners). Grubhub delivery partners are classified as independent contractors, and the onboarding process does not include any drug testing. Instead, Grubhub conducts background checks through Checkr, reviewing criminal history and motor vehicle records. There is no pre-employment drug test, no random drug testing, and no routine testing during your time as a delivery partner. However, Grubhub can deactivate drivers who are suspected of delivering while impaired. Drug-related criminal convictions found during the background check may disqualify you.
Drug Testing by Position
| Position | Tested? | Test Type | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delivery Partner (Driver) | No | N/A | Not required (background check only) |
| Delivery Partner (Bicycle / Scooter) | No | N/A | Not required |
| Corporate / Office Employee | No | N/A | Not required |
| Software Engineer / Tech | No | N/A | Not required |
| Customer Service Representative | No | N/A | Not required |
Why Grubhub Doesn't Drug Test Delivery Partners
Grubhub classifies its delivery drivers as independent contractors (called delivery partners), not employees. This classification means that Grubhub is not subject to the same workplace drug testing regulations that apply to traditional employers. The onboarding process for delivery partners is entirely app-based: you sign up, consent to a background check, provide your vehicle and insurance information, and can start delivering once approved. No drug test is required at any point. This approach is standard across the gig delivery industry, where platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart also do not drug test their independent contractors.
Background Checks Instead of Drug Testing
While Grubhub does not drug test, all delivery partner applicants must pass a background check conducted by Checkr. The background check reviews your criminal record and motor vehicle record (for drivers using cars). Drug-related criminal convictions can affect your eligibility. Felony drug convictions within the past seven years and DUI/DWI convictions are typically disqualifying. Misdemeanor marijuana possession in states where marijuana is legal is generally not a barrier. The background check is completed online and typically takes a few business days.
Delivering While Impaired — Zero Tolerance
Although Grubhub does not conduct drug tests, the company has a zero-tolerance policy for delivering while impaired by drugs or alcohol. If a customer, restaurant employee, or Grubhub staff member reports that a delivery partner appears to be under the influence during a delivery, Grubhub may investigate and can permanently deactivate the driver's account. Grubhub's delivery partner agreement requires drivers to comply with all applicable laws, including laws against impaired driving.
Recent Policy Changes
- 2004: Grubhub founded; delivery partner model does not include drug testing
- 2024-2026: Grubhub continues no-drug-testing policy for all delivery partners; acquired by Wonder Group in 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Grubhub drug test delivery drivers?
- No. Grubhub does not drug test delivery partners (drivers) at any point — not during sign-up, not randomly, and not as a routine part of delivering. Delivery partners are independent contractors, and drug testing is not part of the onboarding process. Grubhub conducts background checks instead.
- Does Grubhub do a background check?
- Yes. All Grubhub delivery partner applicants must pass a background check conducted by Checkr. The check reviews your criminal record and motor vehicle record. Drug-related convictions can disqualify you even though Grubhub does not administer drug tests.
- Can I drive for Grubhub with a drug conviction?
- It depends on the type and timing of the conviction. Felony drug convictions within the past seven years are likely to disqualify you during the background check. DUI/DWI convictions are also typically disqualifying. Misdemeanor marijuana possession in legalized states is generally not a barrier.
- Can Grubhub deactivate me for drug use?
- Grubhub can deactivate your account if there is evidence that you are delivering while impaired by drugs or alcohol. Customer complaints about impaired behavior or erratic driving can trigger an investigation. Off-duty drug use, by itself, is not grounds for deactivation.
- Does Grubhub drug test corporate employees?
- No. Grubhub does not drug test corporate employees, engineers, or office staff. Like most tech companies, Grubhub does not include drug screening in its hiring process for office-based positions.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Become a Grubhub Delivery Partner — Sign up
Apply to deliver with Grubhub and review current requirements
- Grubhub Careers — Corporate jobs
Browse corporate and engineering positions at Grubhub
- SAMHSA — Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Federal resource for substance abuse treatment and recovery support
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