If you're considering Shipt as a side hustle (or full-time gig), this guide walks through the verified current requirements and the 3-step signup at shipt.com. Steps and specs below are verified verbatim against Shipt's official Help Center as of May 2026 — the prior version of this article had stale numbers (older iOS/Android versions, different vehicle and lifting requirements) that no longer match Shipt's current published policy.
The single most important thing to know: Shipt updated its shopper requirements in early 2026. The current numbers are iOS 13 or newer, Android 7.0 or newer, ability to lift 50 pounds, and there's no model-year restriction on your vehicle (just "reliable, operable"). If a guide tells you otherwise (older OS versions, 40 lb lift, 1997+ vehicle requirement), it's outdated.
Verified Shipt shopper requirements (May 2026)
Per Shipt's official Help Center, you need:
- At least 18 years old.
- Valid mailing address.
- Valid U.S. driver's license, Social Security Number, and auto insurance.
- A reliable, operable vehicle. (No model-year restriction in the current Help Center policy.)
- Ability to lift 50 pounds.
- Smartphone: iPhone running iOS 13 or newer, or Android running 7.0 or newer.
That's the full list. Some third-party blogs cite older numbers (iOS 10, Android 5.1, vehicles 1997+, 40 lb lift) — those are stale.
Sign up to be a Shipt shopper
Per Shipt's Help Center: "You can sign up to be a shopper with Shipt in 3 easy steps at shipt.com/shopper/be-a-shopper."
The signup is web-based — no app download for the application phase. Steps from Shipt's documentation:
- Go to shipt.com/shopper/be-a-shopper.
- Complete the 3-step application form (personal info, vehicle, agree to terms).
- Submit and wait for the background check decision.
After applying, Shipt runs the background check via Checkr — the same vendor used by DoorDash, Uber, Lyft, and most other gig platforms. Decision typically arrives via email in 5-10 business days.
What the application asks for
- Identity: name, address, phone, email, date of birth.
- Driver's license number and state of issue.
- Vehicle: make, model, year, color (no model-year minimum).
- Auto insurance proof.
- Bank account (for direct deposit setup) — usually requested after acceptance.
- Tax info (W-9): provided after acceptance.
After you're approved
Once Checkr clears your background check and Shipt accepts:
- Download the Shipt Shopper app (separate from the customer Shipt app).
- Complete in-app onboarding modules (how to shop, how to communicate with members, how Shipt's pay model works).
- Set your delivery zone and availability.
- Pick up your first order.
The app version requirements (iOS 13+ / Android 7.0+) apply to the Shopper app — make sure your phone meets these before you apply, or you won't be able to actually use the app even if accepted.
How Shipt shopper pay works
Shipt pays per order, with a base rate plus tips. Specific structures vary by metro and have evolved over time. For current Shipt pay model details, see Is Shipt Worth It? and Shipt's own shopper pay page.
Tips on Shipt are 100% to the shopper (Shipt has historically been clear on this).
Shipt vs other gig platforms
Quick comparison frame for prospective shoppers:
- Shipt — grocery-focused; Target ownership means Target stores get extra love; per-order pay.
- Instacart — broader retailer mix; batch orders common; more competition for orders in dense markets.
- DoorDash — restaurant-dominant but expanding into grocery; more order volume in many metros.
- Uber Eats — restaurant-heavy; Walmart partnership for groceries in some markets.
Many gig workers run multiple platforms simultaneously to maximize utilization.
Common application errors and fixes
"I'm under 18" Wait until your 18th birthday. There's no exception path.
"Background check denied" Checkr typically denies for: violent felonies, theft convictions, recent DUIs, or motor vehicle records with serious infractions. You can appeal via Checkr directly. See Shipt Shopper Background Check general guidance.
"My vehicle is too old" Shipt's current policy has NO model-year minimum — just "reliable, operable." If your application is rejected on vehicle grounds, contact Shipt support to verify (the prior version of this requirement might still surface in some markets).
"My phone is too old" You need iOS 13+ or Android 7.0+. iOS 13 ran on iPhone 6s and later; Android 7.0 (Nougat) ran on most 2016+ Android phones. If your phone is older, you'll need an upgrade.
"Application form keeps erroring" Try a different browser or device. Clear cookies. Some shopper applications get hung up on browser cache.
"I haven't heard back in over 2 weeks" Email shoppersupport@shipt.com or call (205) 259-7798 (6am-8pm CT). Application backlogs vary by metro and time of year.
Tools for tracking gig income
If you're shopping on Shipt (especially across multiple platforms), tracking income is critical for taxes:
Empower (free) → — free net-worth tracker that imports gig direct deposits across platforms. Useful for seeing total income at a glance.
Rocket Money → — tracks recurring auto-bills and helps cut subscriptions if your gig income varies week-to-week.
For active gig workers, also consider Stride or Everlance for mileage tracking — Shipt doesn't auto-track miles for you.
Try Shipt for grocery delivery Target-owned. Delivers from Target, Meijer, Costco, Petco, Sephora, and many regional grocers. New members get a free trial. Try Shipt Free →
FAQ
What's the minimum age to be a Shipt shopper?
18 years old. No exceptions.
Do I need a specific vehicle year?
No. Shipt's current policy is "a reliable, operable vehicle" — no model-year minimum. (Some third-party sources still cite an old "1997 or newer" rule. The Help Center no longer lists this.)
How heavy do I need to be able to lift?
50 pounds, per Shipt's current policy.
Which iPhone do I need?
iOS 13 or newer — that's iPhone 6s (2015) or later.
Which Android do I need?
Android 7.0 (Nougat) or newer — covers most phones from 2016 onward.
How long does the background check take?
5-10 business days typically, via Checkr.
Do I need auto insurance?
Yes. Valid US auto insurance is required.
Can I shop on Shipt and DoorDash simultaneously?
Yes — many shoppers do this to maximize utilization across markets.
What if I get denied?
Appeal through Checkr if it's the background check; contact Shipt support if it's another reason.
Where does Shipt's official guide live?
Requirements: help.shipt.com — Requirements to become a shopper. Application: help.shipt.com — How can I apply. Both last updated February 20, 2026.
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