How To Make Money Driving Your Own Car? Best Driving Apps

Your car, parked just outside, is more than just a vehicle for daily commutes; it can be a gateway to financial opportunity. Imagine waking up each day with the freedom to earn on your terms, using the car in your driveway as your tool for success.

This is the reality for those who choose to dive into the gig economy, where every trip can unlock potential earnings. From signing up with ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft to delivering food or parcels through platforms such as DoorDash and Amazon Flex – numerous opportunities await to turn your car into a profitable asset.

Below, we explore how you can use your car to make money.

8 Ways To Make Money With Your Car

Unlocking your vehicle’s earning potential begins with understanding the diverse opportunities available to make money driving your car. With different mobile apps to make money, each option offers unique advantages to various lifestyles and goals. Let’s explore how you can make money driving by transforming your car into a source of income.

Sign up With a Ridesharing Service

Ridesharing platforms like Uber and Lyft have redefined transportation for many, turning personal vehicles into sources of income.

To become an Uber driver, you must be at least 18 years old and have at least one year of driving experience in the U.S. or three years if you are under 25. For Lyft, you must be at least 21 years old. Both companies require a valid driver’s license, a clean driving record, and a car that meets the platform’s requirements – usually a four-door model in good condition.

The sign-up process starts by visiting the company’s website or mobile app. Under the ‘Become a Driver’ section, you’ll find the application. This application asks for your personal information, vehicle details, and background check consent.

After passing a background check and vehicle inspection, you’re ready to hit the road. Earnings vary widely based on location, time of day, and demand. On average, drivers can expect to make $15 to $25 per hour, receiving their earnings weekly from both companies and retaining 100% of the tips.  Additionally, income can increase during high-demand periods like weekend nights or major events.

Additionally, many drivers maximize their earnings by toggling between multiple ridesharing apps, depending on which is busiest at any given time.

Work for Food Delivery Services

The surge in popularity of food delivery apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and GrubHub has opened a new avenue for drivers to make money driving. This role is ideal for individuals seeking extra income from tips without having to transport passengers.

To get started, you must be at least 18 years old for most platforms. You’ll typically need a valid driver’s license, proof of auto insurance, and a reliable vehicle or even a bicycle in some urban areas.

The sign-up process starts on the platform’s website or mobile app, where you’ll find the ‘Become a Driver’ or ‘Sign Up’ section. This application requires you to fill in personal information, details about your vehicle, and consent to a background check. The background check is thorough, screening for major driving violations or criminal history to ensure the safety and reliability of the delivery service.

If approved, you can start accepting delivery requests through the app. Earnings can vary depending on the time of day, delivery distance, and the app’s payment structure, but drivers can generally expect to make between $10 to $20 per hour. Drivers are paid weekly and keep 100% of their tips.

Unlike ridesharing, food delivery might offer more consistent demand throughout the day, including lunch and dinner peaks, making it easier to plan your schedule. Moreover, some services allow you to schedule shifts in advance, providing more predictability in your work.

Consider Working for Package Delivery Companies

If you prefer not to drive people around or handle food deliveries, you can make money driving by delivering packages instead. You can sign up with Amazon Flex, FedEx, and UPS, capitalizing on the growing demand for quick and reliable shipping services.

To sign up with these companies, you must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and a reliable vehicle that meets the size requirements for package delivery. The sign-up process includes an online application and a background check.

Once onboard, drivers can choose delivery blocks that fit their schedule, making this a flexible option for earning. The pay varies by location and the urgency of the delivery, but drivers can expect to earn between $18 to $25 per hour, with peak seasons offering opportunities for even higher earnings due to increased delivery demand.

Amazon Flex and FedEx pay twice weekly, while UPS offers weekly payments.

Shop for Groceries

For drivers who don’t want to or can’t be seated all day, you can still make money using your car by shopping and delivering groceries to people’s doorsteps. Grocery shopping services like Instacart present an active way to earn money with your car by personally shopping for groceries and delivering them.

First, you must be at least 18 years old, have access to a reliable vehicle, and own a smartphone. To sign up, begin by downloading the app of the service you’re interested in. Sign-up generally requires submitting your personal information, a valid driver’s license, and proof of auto insurance. A background check is standard.

Shoppers can expect to earn between $10 to $20 per hour. Tips from customers, which you keep in full, can significantly increase your take-home pay. In addition, Instacart provides a feature called Instant Cashout, which allows shoppers to withdraw their earnings immediately after completing a shopping and delivery task.

Efficiently planning your shopping route within the store and scheduling your work during peak demand hours – like weekends and evenings – can boost your earnings. Being friendly and providing exceptional service can also increase your chances of receiving tips.

Turn Your Car Into a Moving Billboard

Wrapify and Carvertise present innovative opportunities to make money driving by turning your vehicle into a moving advertisement.

Drivers who want to make money while driving must be at least 18 years old and have a car in good condition. The vehicle must often be a newer model, usually not over ten years old. You’ll also need a smartphone to track your driving routes and earnings.

To apply, you must visit the company’s website or app. You’ll need to provide personal details, your vehicle’s make and model, and often a photo of your car. A clean driving record and passing a basic background check are typical requirements.

With Wrapify, drivers select the ads placed on their cars and can earn between $196 and $452, paid out twice weekly. This depends on the number of miles driven, which drivers track using their smartphone. On the other hand, Carvertise offers a base rate of up to $300 monthly and will remove the ads at no cost once the campaign or contract concludes.

Rent Your Car Out

If you prefer not to drive, you can still leverage your car to make money. Platforms like Turo and Getaround let you rent your car to others, turning parked vehicles into sources of income. Instead of driving passengers, you make your car available for people to reserve and use as a rental.

The age requirement for listing a car is usually 21. Your vehicle must meet specific criteria set by the platform, such as age, condition, and insurance coverage. Budget-friendly, four-door cars are typically most in demand on these platforms.

To sign up, visit the platform’s website or download the app, create an account, and list your vehicle with detailed descriptions and photos. For insurance purposes, you must submit your driver’s license number and details about your car. Make sure you have a clean vehicle history and adhere to safety standards.

With Turo, owners have the flexibility to set their own rental prices and are covered by liability insurance. When renting your car on Turo, you’ll receive an average of 65% to 80% of the total rental fee. This means owners can potentially earn between $500 to $1,000 monthly, depending on the value of the car and market demand.

On the other hand, Getaround simplifies pricing with an automated system that adjusts rates based on location and demand, charging renters about $6 to $10 per hour. Car owners then receive approximately 60% of the total rental amount. This model supports a steady income stream by optimizing pricing to stay competitive within the market.

Run Errands

Favor allows drivers to earn money by running errands for others, such as picking up dry cleaning, going to the pharmacy, or delivering documents.

To make money with Favor, you must be at least 18 years old and have a dependable vehicle. The driver should also have an Android or iOS device to download the app.

To become a Favor Runner, open their website or app, complete an application with your details, and consent to a background check. A clean driving record is required for safety and reliability.

Base pay starts at $2.10, and you keep 100% of your tips. Earnings increase with the number of tasks completed, particularly during busy periods. Favor Runners receive weekly deposits, but you can get paid anytime using Instant Pay for $0.99.

Help People Move

Dolly invites drivers with larger vehicles to assist in moving tasks, from home relocations to hauling large store purchases.

To become a “Helper” with Dolly, you must be over 21 and own or have access to a well-maintained pickup truck, box truck, or cargo van. Due to the job’s demands, you must be capable of heavy lifting.

To register as a Helper, you must visit Dolly’s site or app to submit your application, undergo a background check, and maintain a clean driving record to ensure reliability and safety.

Helpers are paid per task, an average of $35 to $50 per hour. Additionally, Dolly pays twice a week. The platform also allows Helpers to set their schedules, providing a flexible method of earning by aiding in moves.

15 Best Apps To Make Money Driving

With so many money-making options available, all you have to do is choose which apps to sign up with to start making money using your car. Dive into our curated list of the best driving apps and you can start to use your car to make money.

Uber and Lyft

Uber distinguishes itself through its vast user base and the potential for increased earnings via surge pricing during peak demand times, allowing drivers to maximize their income based on time and location. On the other hand, Lyft is renowned for providing substantial incentives and bonuses that enhance driver earnings.

Both platforms enable flexible schedules, allowing drivers to work according to their availability. Drivers also have the added benefit of using both apps simultaneously, tapping into multiple earning opportunities that boost their overall income. However, earnings can vary widely based on location and time, and the driver is responsible for the cost of vehicle maintenance and gas.

Doordash, UberEats, and GrubHub, Postmates

DoorDash distinguishes itself by often commanding the highest order volume across numerous locales, thus providing drivers with more steady opportunities for earnings. Additionally, its Dasher Rewards program incentivizes drivers who consistently deliver with excellence, offering bonuses and preferred access to slots during peak demand times.

Postmates broadens the spectrum of delivery possibilities beyond just food, encompassing a variety of non-food items. Noteworthy for its scheduling flexibility, Postmates allows drivers to decide when they work, eliminating the need for advance scheduling and, thus, accommodating even the most unpredictable of schedules.

UberEats leverages the sophisticated technology and extensive user base of the Uber platform, facilitating a smooth transition for existing Uber drivers to diversify their income streams. Finally, GrubHub is recognized for its competitive compensation and higher average order values, potentially leading to increased tips and earnings per delivery.

On the flip side, drivers must navigate the challenges of fluctuating income, bear the costs associated with vehicle upkeep and fuel, and contend with varying levels of competition for orders, which can influence earning potential.

Amazon Flex

Amazon Flex provides a unique package delivery opportunity with the support of Amazon’s tech and logistics, offering flexible and competitive pay. Drivers can choose work shifts, ranging from three to six hours, to suit their schedule, making it ideal for those with other commitments.

The Flex app streamlines tasks like package scanning and route planning, increasing efficiency and easing the delivery process. A key advantage is the variety of deliveries, from Amazon orders to groceries from Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods, enhancing job diversity and opportunities for more hours.

However, work availability and earnings can fluctuate due to demand, seasonal changes, and location. The need for a larger vehicle for different package sizes may also be a barrier for some.

Turo and Getaround

Turo and Getaround offer car owners a way to generate passive income by listing their vehicles for hourly or daily rentals. Turo enables owners to set their rental prices and is particularly appealing for special or luxury vehicles, as it allows for higher rental rates, enhancing earning potential.

On the other hand, Getaround automates pricing, streamlining the process for you. For car owners who want to spend less time on the logistics of renting out their vehicles, Getaround lets you easily list your car, and their technology does the rest.

Both platforms provide comprehensive insurance for every rental, adding a layer of security for owners. However, owners might also consider the potential for increased wear and tear on their vehicles due to frequent use by different drivers. Maintenance costs are not covered by Turo or Getaround.

Instacart

With a wide network of partner supermarkets and stores, Instacart offers flexible scheduling options. You can choose between being a full-service shopper who shops and delivers orders or an in-store shopper who prepares orders for pickup.

Instacart also emphasizes a rewards system for its shoppers, rewarding them with access to more lucrative shopping batches based on performance metrics such as order accuracy and delivery times. This incentivizes quality service while giving shoppers the opportunity to increase their earnings.

However, similar to other gig economy roles, Instacart Shoppers face challenges related to variable income, expenses for vehicle maintenance (for full-service shoppers), and the physical demands of shopping and delivering groceries. Additionally, the competition for high-paying batches can be intense, especially in densely populated areas, affecting the consistency of earning opportunities.

Roadie

Roadie stands out in the delivery service market by specializing in larger items and long-distance trips. Its payment model, which offers $8 to $50 for local deliveries and potentially hundreds for cross-country trips, provides significant earning potential.

This model allows for flexibility in job selection based on the driver’s preferences and vehicle capacity and offers the unique advantage of exploring new places, making it ideal for those who enjoy driving and adventure.

However, drivers should note the variability in income, which is dependent on job availability and personal choice of assignments. Additionally, the job’s physical demands and the potential for increased vehicle wear and tear, particularly from long-distance deliveries, are important considerations.

Wingz

Wingz focuses exclusively on pre-booked airport trips, offering drivers and passengers a specialized service. The app allows drivers to schedule their work in advance.

A notable feature of Wingz is its premium pricing model, which generally allows drivers to earn between $20 and $40 per ride. However, the platform’s exclusive focus on airport rides might limit the number of available jobs compared to more generalized ride-sharing services.

Final Thoughts

Driving your own car to make money offers unparalleled flexibility and the chance to be your own boss. Whether you are looking for a full-time gig or to supplement your income, the options are vast and varied. You can unlock new financial opportunities on your own terms by leveraging your vehicle and the latest apps.

FAQ

Let’s address the most frequently asked questions about how to make money with a car.

How Old Do I Need to Be to Start Making Money With My Car?

The age requirement varies by platform. For ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft, you must be at least 21 years old. Food delivery services like DoorDash and grocery delivery apps like Instacart often set the minimum age at 18. Each service will have its specific age requirement, so it’s best to check directly on their website or app.

What Are the Vehicle Requirements for Driving Gigs?

Vehicle requirements depend on the service. Ridesharing apps typically require a four-door car in good condition, not older than ten years. Delivery services may have more lenient requirements, sometimes allowing bikes or scooters in urban areas. For tasks that involve moving or hauling, a larger vehicle, like a truck or van, may be necessary.

Can I Work for Multiple Services at Once?

Yes, many drivers maximize their earnings by toggling between multiple apps, depending on which is busiest at any given time. This strategy allows for a more steady stream of income opportunities throughout the day.

How Much Can I Expect to Earn?

Earnings vary widely depending on the platform, your location, and how much you work. Rideshare drivers can make between $15 to $25 per hour, while food delivery earnings range from $10 to $20 per hour. Specialized tasks or delivery jobs may offer higher pay, especially for those with specific skills or vehicles suitable for moving large items.

Are There Any Costs Involved in Starting to Make Money With My Car?

While the signup process is generally free, there are costs associated with vehicle maintenance, gas, and, in some cases, specific equipment or tools needed for certain tasks. Additionally, some platforms may require a background check, which can have an associated fee.

How Do I Receive M Earnings?

Most platforms offer weekly payouts through direct deposit to your bank account. Some also provide instant cash-out options for a small fee, allowing you to access your earnings immediately after completing a job.