Amid the ongoing Iran-U.S. conflict leading to a sharp rise in gas prices, DoorDash is taking action to assist its drivers in the U.S. and Canada.
The company announced a temporary program on Monday to alleviate the financial strain on Dashers who depend on their vehicles for deliveries.
DoorDash’s relief program, running until April 26, provides weekly payments to eligible drivers. Dashers driving at least 125 miles weekly can receive payments starting at $5, potentially saving $1 to $1.50 per gallon. This support is particularly significant for drivers in suburban and rural areas who cover longer distances.
Moreover, drivers using DoorDash’s Crimson debit card will gain an additional 10% cash back on gas purchases, potentially saving up to $1.90 per gallon.
Gasoline is a major expense for delivery drivers. Unlike traditional employees, gig workers must cover their costs, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, and insurance. A Human Rights Watch survey from May 2025 showed gig workers in Texas spent an average of $100 weekly on fuel or $2.76 per hour worked. During the survey, gas prices in Texas were about $3 per gallon.
The situation has worsened. According to AAA, the national average for regular gas is now just under $3.96 per gallon, over $1 more than a month ago. In some places, prices have reached about $4 per gallon.
As gas prices rise, drivers’ weekly fuel costs can skyrocket without pay rate increases from platforms. At the same time, delivery demand may vary due to higher living costs, meaning drivers can’t always offset expenses with more orders. This results in lower profits per delivery while working the same or longer hours. Many find gig work transitioning from a flexible income source to being financially unsustainable, prompting some to reduce hours or leave the industry.
The gas rewards program echoes a similar initiative from DoorDash in 2022 when gas prices surged after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. That year, Uber introduced a fuel surcharge for drivers, and GrubHub increased driver pay due to soaring gas prices.
It’s uncertain if other delivery services will match DoorDash’s actions this time.