Amazon delivery drivers are typically independent contractors who must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license, pass a background check, and use a qualifying vehicle
How much does a delivery driver make at Amazon?
Amazon delivery drivers earn an average of $16 per hour, with reported ranges from $9 to $98 per hour depending on location and delivery type
Pay isn’t one-size-fits-all. Full-time Amazon DSP drivers usually bring in $16 to $25 an hour, while Amazon Flex contractors typically see $18 to $25 during their scheduled blocks. In pricey areas like California, Flex drivers average about $19.51 an hour. Full-timers in that state can pull in $70,762 a year—34% above the national average.
What disqualifies you from driving for Amazon?
Amazon disqualifies applicants with felonies or major criminal violations involving theft or violence within the past 7 years during the background check
Minor traffic tickets from years ago? Probably won’t sink your application. But violent felonies or theft-related crimes? Those are red flags regardless of when they happened. Amazon’s background check zeroes in on job-related risks—think vehicle crimes or drug offenses. Some states even cap how far back background checks can dig for certain convictions.
How much does Amazon flex pay per block?
Amazon Flex pays between $18 and $25 per hour during scheduled delivery blocks, depending on vehicle type and delivery demand
Each block runs 4 hours and pays $108 flat, which works out to $27 an hour if you use every minute. Bigger vehicles like vans or box trucks let you haul more packages, pushing your hourly closer to the top of the range. Expect rates to spike during holiday rushes. Pay lands in your bank account weekly via direct deposit tied to your Flex app.
Do you need a CDL to work for Amazon?
A CDL is required only for drivers operating large commercial vehicles such as box trucks or tractor trailers in Amazon’s DSP or large-package delivery programs
No CDL? No problem for standard Flex drivers using personal cars. Amazon suggests a Class A or B CDL if you’re hauling heavy loads or towing gear. DSP roles almost always require a Class B CDL since they run commercial vehicles. Always double-check the exact vehicle rules for the job you want.
Do Amazon delivery drivers get paid weekly?
Yes, Amazon delivery drivers are paid weekly
Amazon switched many delivery roles to weekly pay after the pandemic to help contractors manage cash flow better. Money lands in your bank account linked to the Flex app or DSP payroll system. Holiday work earns 1.5 times your normal hourly rate. Both Flex contractors and DSP employees get this weekly pay setup.
Do Amazon drivers get paid every week?
Yes, Amazon delivery drivers receive weekly payments
That includes Flex contractors and full-time DSP drivers. The move from biweekly to weekly payroll was meant to give drivers steadier income. You can check your pay in the app dashboard, usually hitting your account the same day each week. Some DSP drivers might still get paid every two weeks depending on their role and location.
How many hours a week does an Amazon delivery driver work?
Amazon delivery drivers typically work 40 hours per week
Full-timers usually stick to a 40-hour schedule, often split into four 10-hour days. Flex drivers call the shots—you can pick anywhere from zero to 40 hours a week based on what’s available. Overtime kicks in if you go past 40 hours. You reserve your hours through the Flex app and can tweak them week to week.
Does Amazon flex pay for fuel?
No, Amazon Flex does not pay for fuel
You’re on the hook for every fuel stop, repair, insurance premium, and wear-and-tear expense. Amazon doesn’t chip in for gas, which can eat into your take-home pay. Track those receipts—they’re tax-deductible since you’re self-employed. Bigger vehicles mean bigger fuel bills, so factor that into your earnings math.
Is Amazon flex a real job?
Yes, Amazon Flex is a legitimate independent contractor role delivering Amazon packages
It’s not a W-2 employee gig—you’re a 1099 contractor managed through the Amazon Flex app. You pick up packages at Amazon delivery stations and drop them off at customers’ doors. You might deliver from Amazon.com, Whole Foods, or other Amazon services. Over 1 million drivers worldwide use Flex, so it’s definitely real. Just remember: you’re an independent contractor, not an Amazon employee.
How much do Amazon Flex drivers really make?
Amazon Flex drivers in California earn approximately $19.51 per hour on average, which is 21% above the national Flex average
Your actual pay depends on which blocks you snag, what you’re driving, how fast you move, and how many packages you handle. Urban drivers in high-density areas usually out-earn rural drivers. Top performers in busy markets can hit $22–$25 an hour during peak blocks. Annual earnings swing widely—many drivers report $20,000 to $50,000 based on how much they hustle and when they work.
Do Amazon hire felons?
Yes, Amazon does hire felons, depending on the severity of the conviction and applicable state laws
Amazon looks at each case individually, focusing on the crime’s nature and how long ago it happened. Many felons start in non-driving roles like warehouses and later move into delivery once they prove reliable. Some states limit background checks to convictions from the last 7 years. Be upfront on your application—lying can get you disqualified.
Can I work for Amazon with my own truck?
Yes, you can use your own truck to deliver packages for Amazon as an Amazon Flex driver
Your truck needs to meet Amazon’s size and safety rules—think midsize van or larger SUV. You handle all maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs. Using your own truck can boost your hourly pay thanks to higher package capacity. Reserve your blocks through the Flex app and follow Amazon’s delivery rules. Amazon provides liability insurance while you’re on the job.
How much does Amazon flex pay per hour?
Amazon Flex pays an average of $18 to $25 per hour during scheduled delivery blocks
A 4-hour block pays $108, which averages to $27 an hour if you use the full time. Your real hourly rate hinges on block demand, vehicle size, and how many packages you’re dropping off. In hot zones or peak seasons, rates can climb toward $30 an hour. Remember: you’re paid per block, not per hour, so speed and efficiency directly shape your effective wage.
What benefits do Amazon drivers get?
Full-time Amazon drivers (typically DSP employees) receive a 401(k) plan, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability pay, adoption assistance, and Amazon.com purchase discounts
These perks go to full-time DSP drivers, not Flex contractors. DSP drivers also get vehicle support and training. Part-timers and Flex drivers miss out on these benefits and have to arrange their own insurance and retirement savings. Amazon’s benefits package matches what it offers its full-time workforce, including DSP employees nationwide.
Do Amazon delivery drivers get paid well?
Amazon delivery drivers in California earn approximately $70,762 per year on average, which is 34% above the national average
Pay swings wildly based on role and location. Full-time DSP drivers with benefits can clear $40,000 to $70,000 a year depending on hours and experience. Flex drivers usually land between $20,000 and $50,000 annually based on availability and effort. High-cost states pay more, but living expenses eat into those gains. Overall, the money is solid for entry-level delivery work, though it varies by market and how hard you push.
Edited and fact-checked by the MeridianFacts editorial team.