I’ve been dashing for more than five years now, and I’ve seen just about every change Doordash has thrown our way. One thing that often trips up new dashers is Earn By Time. If you’re just starting out, you might be confused about how it works, so let me break it down for you in plain and simple terms.
Earn By Time is one of the earning modes in Doordash. Instead of getting paid per order, you’re paid based on the active time you spend on the delivery. The app will usually show you the hourly rate when you accept an order. If you spend a full hour on that order, you’ll get paid that full hourly rate.
But here’s the important part: active time means the clock starts when you accept the order and ends when you complete it. It doesn’t include the downtime when you’re waiting for the next order to come in.
How Earn By Time Works
Now here’s the catch that throws people off. Let’s say the hourly rate in your zone is $15. If you complete the delivery in 30 minutes, you’re not going to get the full $15. Instead, you’ll get half of it, which is about $7.50. Same thing if you finish in 45 minutes, you’ll get three-fourths of the hourly rate.
A lot of new dashers think they’ll always get the full rate just for completing the order, but that’s not how it works. That kind of fixed payout is what you get in Earn Per Offer, not Earn By Time.
So, is Earn By Time worth it? The answer is… it depends. From my own experience, Earn By Time makes more sense if you’re working outside the city. Those areas usually mean longer drives or farther deliveries, so the time-based pay can give you more security.
On the flip side, if you’re in a busy downtown area where you can knock out quick deliveries one after another, Earn By Time might not be your best option. You might actually earn less compared to just sticking with per-offer payouts.
Important Dasher Tips
The bottom line is this: know your market. Every zone is different. Take some time to test out both earning modes and see which one works better for you.
Sometimes Earn By Time can feel like a safety net, especially on slower days or in areas with longer drives. But other times, especially in busy markets, it’s smarter to go with Earn Per Offer.
My advice for new dashers? Don’t be afraid to experiment. Track your earnings, compare the results, and figure out what makes the most sense for your area.
That’s how you’ll really maximize your time and make the most out of dashing.
FAQ About Earn By Time for New Dashers
1. What exactly is Earn By Time on Doordash?
Earn By Time is an earning mode where you’re paid based on your active time while completing an order. Active time starts when you accept the order and ends when you drop it off.
2. Do I always get the full hourly rate shown in the app?
No. You only get the full rate if your delivery takes the full hour. If you finish in less time, you’re paid a portion of that hourly rate. For example, if the rate is $15 and you finish in 30 minutes, you’ll earn about $7.50.
3. Is Earn By Time better than Earn Per Offer?
It depends on your market. Earn By Time works well in areas where deliveries take longer, like suburbs or rural zones. Earn Per Offer usually pays better in busy city areas where orders are quick and back-to-back.
4. Does waiting between orders count toward Earn By Time?
No. Only your active delivery time counts, starting when you accept the order until you complete it. Waiting for the next order isn’t included.
5. How do I know if Earn By Time is worth it in my area?
The best way is to test it out. Try both modes, track your earnings, and see what works better for your zone. Every market is different, so your results might not be the same as another dasher’s.
