Guide · Work

Can you use an electric bike for DoorDash or Uber Eats?

Updated October 22, 2026

A delivery rider on an electric bike on a city street

Yes. Both DoorDash and Uber Eats accept bikes and e-bikes for delivery in many U.S. cities, mostly dense urban areas where orders are short. You do not need a driver’s license or car insurance to deliver by bike, but you still need to meet each app’s requirements and your local e-bike laws.

What the delivery apps ask for

A bike or e-bike, and the minimum age that applies in your state. DoorDash asks for 18 in most states, 19 in some and 21 for new applicants in California; Uber Eats asks for 18.
A valid government-issued ID, a Social Security number and a compatible smartphone.
A background check, which usually takes a few business days.
Bike delivery is only offered in select markets. In the DoorDash app, check the vehicle options: if bike appears, your area supports it.

Check your local e-bike rules

The apps do not set e-bike rules; your state and city do. Most states treat an e-bike that fits Class 1, 2 or 3 like a bicycle, but some regulate faster bikes as motorized vehicles that need registration, a license or insurance.

Some cities add their own rules for delivery workers. In New York City, for example, couriers must wear a helmet and the app’s reflective vest, and e-bikes sold, rented or leased in the city must be certified to the UL 2849 safety standard.

What to look for in a delivery e-bike

Range with a margin: claimed ranges assume good conditions. Cargo, hills and constant stops reduce them, so pick a bike listed well above your longest shift.
A removable battery, so you can charge it at home and, on long days, carry a spare.
Payload and a rear rack: add up your weight, the delivery bag and a backpack, and check the listed maximum payload.
A throttle helps you start from a stop with a full bag. On Class 2 e-bikes, the throttle works up to 20 mph.
Lights, reflectors and puncture-resistant tires for night shifts and city streets.

A note on speed

Some e-bikes are listed at 35 mph or more. Under most state laws, those are not e-bikes but mopeds or motorcycles, and they may not be allowed on bike lanes or for bike delivery. If you plan to deliver, a bike that tops out at 20 or 28 mph is usually the safer choice.

Sources

DoorDash, “Bike delivery” and “Requirements for Dashing” (dasher.doordash.com, help.doordash.com).
Uber, “Bike delivery” and “Sign up for delivery with bicycle or on foot” (uber.com, help.uber.com).
NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, Local Law 39 of 2023 on certified e-bikes and batteries.