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Instacart shopper requirements in 2026

Last reviewed: September 8, 2026

Full-service Instacart shoppers buy groceries in-store and deliver them. That means a car, a background check, and the ability to lift 40 lb — plus 21+ if you want alcohol batches.

Apply on Instacart (official)

Published basics

  • 18 years or older
  • Legal authorization to work in the U.S.
  • Reliable car and smartphone with the Shopper app
  • Able to lift 40 lb (two official wordings — see below)
  • 21+ for alcohol deliveries
  • Bank account for payouts

40 lb lifting: two official wordings

Instacart’s own shopper site publishes two 40 lb sentences. Both stay on this page. Neither is replaced with a third-party 50 lb figure.

  • The full-service role / requirements list says: “Be able to lift 40 lb with or without accommodation.”
  • The FAQ on the same Instacart shopper site says you must be “able to lift up to 40lbs (18kg) without accommodation.”

Full-service vs in-store

This guide covers the independent full-service shopper role that drives to customers. Some markets also have in-store shopper employee roles with different rules. Confirm which role you are applying for on Instacart’s official shopper site.

Screening

Instacart runs criminal-history and driving-record checks before you can shop. Complete those steps only inside the official Shopper signup and app.

Frequently asked questions

How old do you have to be for Instacart?

Full-service shoppers must be at least 18. You must be 21 or older to deliver alcohol orders.

Do you need a car for Instacart?

Full-service shopping and delivery expects regular access to a reliable car and auto insurance. There is no separate make/model year rule like Amazon Flex, but you still need to carry groceries safely.

What does Instacart say about lifting?

Instacart’s full-service role page says you must be able to lift 40 lb with or without accommodation. The FAQ on the same Instacart shopper site says you must be able to lift up to 40 lb (18 kg) without accommodation. Both official figures are 40 lb. This site does not use a third-party 50 lb number.